Archers explore new strategy with four short-stick defensive midfielders
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 31, 2026, 7:25 PM
Last updated Jul 31, 2026
The Utah Archers are leveraging a new approach by employing four short-stick defensive midfielders (SSDMs) during the 2026 season. This strategy follows their season finale win over the Carolina Chaos, where four SSDMs contributed significantly to the team's performance. Head coach Chris Bates believes this formation will maintain fresh legs and enhance offensive opportunities, particularly after a challenging 2025 season where the Archers finished last in scoring. They selected Aidan Maguire with the first overall pick, making him the first SSDM drafted first overall, a decision that reflects their belief in a shift toward a faster pace of play.
- •Utah Archers won season finale against Carolina Chaos last August.
- •They drafted Aidan Maguire first overall in 2026.
- •The team employs four SSDMs to boost defense and offense.
- •Archers finished last in league scoring offense in 2025.
- 7:25 PMYahoo Sports — How Archers developed four-SSDM philosophy and why it’s paying off
"There was a palpable buzz in the Harvard Stadium locker room after the Utah Archers beat the Carolina Chaos in their season finale last August. Despite the fact that...
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