Defender enters third season with Rochester with one-year deal for 2015
The Rochester Knighthawks have announced the re-signing of defenseman Jon Sullivan to a one-year deal for the 2015 National Lacrosse League season. The 32-year-old veteran has won back-to-back Champion’s Cups since coming to Rochester after a trade with Colorado in March of 2013.
“‘Sully’ is a great steady ‘D’ man with an excellent lacrosse IQ. He can shut down the teams’ best players,” said goalie Matt Vinc. “We are great friends off the floor so it’s unbelievable that I get to play with him again this season.”
Sullivan said there is no other place he would rather play in the NLL.
“I’m really excited to have signed and be back with Rochester,” he said. “Anytime you can be a part of a great organization like the Knighthawks, it makes everything else that much more special. I can’t wait to get back with the guys and start getting ready for the new season.”
In 2014, Sullivan suited up for 12 regular season games plus all six playoff contests. During the playoffs, he added three points to the Knighthawks’ record-breaking three-peat. His biggest point of the season was in Game Two of the NLL Champion’s Cup Series as he scored his first career postseason goal as a Knighthawk to solidify a 16-10 win. The goal was also his first playoff goal since 2007 when he played for the Minnesota Swarm. He adds another veteran presence to the tough Rochester defense.
“It’s great to hear we will have ‘Sully’ with us on the back door. He’s a steady ‘D’ guy who fits in very well with our system and the other guys,” said Knighthawks Assistant Captain Mike Kirk. “He’s smart and brings a lot of experience and leadership to our team.”
“He has a steady demeanor and steady presence on the back end and he works well with everybody,” said Knighthawks Head Coach Mike Hasen. “We’re constantly pushing these guys and he’s living up to those expectations we set.”
In his career, the former Colorado Mammoth captain has collected 60 points and 478 loose balls in 142 career games. Sullivan will enter his third season with the Knighthawks in 2015 as Rochester tries to continue to rewrite the NLL record book.
“I hope to just positively contribute to the team,” said Sullivan. “I want to help put us in a good position to make another run at the Cup.”
The Knighthawks will open their 21st season on Saturday, January 3rd against the Toronto Rock at The Blue Cross Arena. Prior to the 7:30 p.m. game, the Knighthawks will celebrate their historic third straight NLL Championship by raising their 2014 Championship Banner.
