January 24, 2023

The Houston Havoc have signed handler Matt Bennett and defender Ben Lewis as the team’s first official players entering the 2023 season. Both players are Texas A&M alumni and AUDL vets, beginning their professional careers in 2016. Bennett and Lewis most recently played as teammates for the Dallas Legion in 2022.

“Ben and Matt are cornerstone, experienced AUDL players that immediately create a competitive foundation, as well as being veteran leaders to set the tone for team culture,” said Havoc General Manager Sean McCall. “We are proud to build locally and welcome these two tremendous Houstonians to the Havoc roster.”

Bennett played for the Dallas Legion in 2016-17 and 2022, as well as the Austin Sol in 2018-2021. His season high of 1,360 throwing yards came in 2021 with the Sol. He amassed more than 1,000 completions in his AUDL career of 51 games.

“It’s hard to put into words how exciting it is to finally get to represent my hometown in the AUDL,” said Bennett. “Players from Houston have always had to showcase their talent for other teams, so I am pumped for all these players to be able to go out and show what Houston can do with its ultimate talents. I’m looking forward to an incredible tryout and a great season.” 

Lewis played his rookie year in 2016 with the Austin Sol, and has played for the Dallas Legion since 2017. He recorded more than 2,100 receiving yards last season, and tallied 67 blocks in his career.

“I think Houston has the potential to become an ultimate destination for years to come,” said Lewis. “This city has been home to me for seven years, so I am excited to get the chance to play in front of my friends and family. And I can’t wait to play for Coach Bex! She is going to bring a level of creativity and strategy that will help everyone on the team succeed.”

The Havoc held tryouts this past weekend at AVEVA Stadium in Houston. The team will continue announcing their 2023 inaugural roster in the coming weeks.