Kraus signs with Connecticut Hammerheads

Michael Kraus certainly did not lack for options.

The former New Canaan High lacrosse star could have played another season for the powerhouse Virginia program or signed with either Major League Lacrosse or Premier Lacrosse League as he was a top three selection in both pro leagues.

Kraus opted to stay home, signing a two-year contract with the MLL’s Connecticut Hammerheads, who will play their home games at Fairfield University’s Rafferty Stadium.

“I am extremely excited and honored to be a part of the Connecticut Hammerheads,” Kraus said in a release. “Can’t wait to get back out on the field this summer for the Hammerheads’ inaugural season. Playing in front of my hometown family and friends is going to be awesome.”

Kraus is one of three Fairfield County natives who was drafted by the Hammerheads. Kraus was the second overall pick, Wilton’s Michael Brown was the 17th pick and New Canaan’s Brandon Salvatore was selected 32nd. Not long after being drafted Kraus addressed the possibility of being part of the in-state player pool who can help to grow the fan base for the team which moved from Dallas.

“I think it will be awesome if the season can happen and obviously we’ve been without sports for a while so I think they will be itching to see some kind of competition and go and see lacrosse in Fairfield County is something that would be very special,” Kraus said. “I think all the young kids and high school kids would love to see the pro-level game so I think it was the perfect fit for the Connecticut community.”

Kraus had 131 goals and 240 points in 55 career games at Virginia and was a member of the Cavaliers’ 2019 national championship team. Kraus had three goals and led Virginia with 10 shots in a win over Yale in the title game. Former Dartmouth star Ben Martin, a fourth-round pick, also signed with the Hammerheads.

No. 1 overall pick TD Ierlan of Yale told Hearst Connecticut Media he plans to return to Yale for the 2021 season. The MLL, however, has signed three of the top four draft picks with former Fairfield University star Colin Burke agreeing to terms with New York and Syracuse’s Nick Mellen signing with Boston. Former Yale star Will Weitzel, the No. 6 overall pick, signed with Chesapeake while Darien’s Mark Evanchick, who was picked ninth, signed with the MLL’s Philadelphia franchise before the PLL draft was conducted. Darien’s Colin Minicus has also signed with Philadelphia.