Rochester retains restricted free agent after New England’s qualifying offer
The Rochester Knighthawks have matched the New England Black Wolves’ qualifying offer and have re-signed restricted free agent Stephen Keogh to a four-year contract agreement pending league approval. As per the league’s rules, the Knighthawks had 72 hours to match the offer in order to retain the right-handed forward.
“I couldn’t be happier,” Keogh said. “My family is happy they get to come to Rochester the next four years to watch me play. It’s a great organization, it’s like a family. I am just excited to be back.”
The Toronto native is coming off his finest season as a pro, finishing the 2014 season with career highs in goals (33), assists (38) and points (71). The Knighthawks Offensive MVP finished second on the team in goals and third in points. In the postseason, Keogh was tied for fourth on the team with 10 points.
“Last year was great, especially the way we won back-to-back-to-back championships,” said Keogh. “This year, we have the same focus and the same goals in mind.”
The Knighthawks selected Keogh with the second overall pick in the 2011 NLL Entry Draft. In three seasons in Rochester, the 27-year-old forward has collected 72 goals, 81 assists and 131 loose balls in 44 games. He has also played a key role in the team’s run of three straight championships.
“Keogh adds an element to our offense that many teams are looking for,” said Knighthawks forward Cody Jamieson. “He is a big reason for our success.”
Throughout his lacrosse career, Keogh has been a part of numerous championship teams, including two NCAA Division I national championships with the Syracuse Orange (2008-09) along with a Junior “A” Minto Cup with the Orangeville Northmen.
“He’s a gifted winner,” said Knighthawks forward Derek Hopcroft. “When a game, season, or playoff is on the line, Keogh knows how to step up when given the opportunity and takes full advantage of it.”
The 2015 NLL season starts on Friday, Jan. 2 at Mohegan Sun Arena as the Black Wolves host the Buffalo Bandits to open the league’s 29th year. Rochester opens the season at home against the Toronto Rock on Saturday, Jan. 3 at Blue Cross Arena.
