Edmonton, AB - The Edmonton Rush are pleased to announce that they have been awarded the 2008 All-Star Game by the National Lacrosse League.

NLL Commissioner Jim Jennings made the announcement at a press conference today in Edmonton and Bruce Urban, Owner and Governor of the Rush, graciously accepted the role which will see the Rush play host to the best professional lacrosse players in the world showcasing their talents.

The 2008 NLL All-Star Game will be held Sunday, March 16 at Rexall Place.

"We are thrilled that the best players in the NLL will be here for 2008 All-Star Game and we intend on showing them what many people already know - that Edmonton is one of the best cities anywhere in the world and when it comes to hosting major events, it is done in a first-class manner," said Urban.

"We will make this a memorable event for everyone involved especially for the great players and coaches in the NLL."

Commissioner Jennings felt Edmonton was the perfect place to host the next NLL All-Star Game.

"The City of Edmonton and the fans of the Rush have shown great support for their team in its first two seasons," said Jennings. "The Rush have quickly become an important part of the sports landscape in the City of Champions. It is with great honour that we award the opportunity to showcase the best lacrosse players in the world to Edmonton in 2008."

Edmonton Mayor Stephen Mandel believes the NLL couldn't have picked a better location for its annual mid-season showdown between the East and West Divisions.

"Edmonton is thrilled to host such a high-calibre sporting event as the 2008 National Lacrosse League All-Star Game," said Mandel. "The Edmonton Rush have been a great addition to the winning tradition of Edmonton's professional sports teams. Lacrosse fans from across North America will have the chance to see firsthand Edmonton's enthusiasm, excitement and passion for sports when we host the best lacrosse players in the world."

The last All-Star Game to be played in Edmonton was the NHL All-Star Game in 1989. Rexall Place will now become the first building to host both the NLL and NHL All-Star Games.

"As always, we look forward to the great opportunity this brings to our organization and our city and we will be ready to showcase the great talent of the NLL and make this experience truly memorable," said Ken Knowles, General Manager and Chief Operating Officer of Edmonton Northlands.

Rush President Duane Vienneau took in the 2007 All-Star Game this past Saturday in Portland where the Rush were represented on the West Division team by forward Jimmy Quinlan. In his first NLL All-Star Game and playing alongside numerous All-Star Game veterans, Quinlan, a native of Sherwood Park, notched a goal and three assists for the West in a 20-16 loss to the East.

"Being able to host the NLL All-Star Game is great moment in the franchise history of the Rush," said Vienneau. "Our loyal fans deserve to see this game and it's our hope that they will also get to see a number of Rush players proudly wearing the West Division jersey in Edmonton."

The Rush take on the five time NLL Champions Toronto Rock this Friday, March 16 at Rexall Place. Game time is 7 p.m.

The Edmonton Rush believes ATTITUDE IS EVERYTHING. Fans are encouraged to wear Black, Be Loud and Bring ATTITUDE.