Nick Cotter might not be a household name in lacrosse. He is, however, a name that would be known by fans who follow every level of lacrosse. Cotter began his NLL career with the Boston Blazers, and after they folded, he saw limited time with the Buffalo Bandits.
Cotter also has seen time with the Charlotte Copperheads of the ill-fated Professional Lacrosse League and is a coach with St. Leo’s University in NCAA D2 lacrosse. He has been a part of many parts of lacrosse, but now, he has a chance to be back in the NLL.
“I am very excited to be given the opportunity to join the Minnesota Swarm family,” said Cotter. “I have heard great things from top to bottom about the Swarm organization. I have also experienced playing in the hive when playing for the Boston Blazers and Buffalo Bandits and know how passionate and energetic their fan base is; it’s a great atmosphere to be a part of. It will also be great to reunite with former roommate/teammate Callum Crawford from Dowling College. I continue to share a passion for the game and would enjoy working towards a championship!”
Cotter has 47 career games of NLL experience and the left handed shooting forward has 90 career points. His best year was in 2010 when he scored 36 points with the Blazers.
Also a coach of the field lacrosse game, Cotter brings a lot of experience at nearly every level to the Swarm.
“I am currently coaching at St. Leo University in Tampa, Florida,” Cotter explained. “We are a Division 2 NCAA school and compete in the Sunshine State Conference. I am thankful for the opportunity that head coach Brad Jorgenson has given me with coaching the offensive unit here at St. Leo. St. Leo has some of the best academic programs and athletic facilities in Division 2. Last year we finished third in the Sunshine State Conference, but we are looking to do bigger and better things this year. Seeing how hard these guys are working on and off the field at St. Leo University has me motivated, hungry and ready to make an impact after healing from an injury which kept me out last season.”
Minnesota has had a very active offseason, acquiring Mike Grimes, Brodie MacDonald, and several free agent signings. The Swarm do have some openings on the left side, where Cotter plays.
“With such a short training camp it’s very important to come into training camp in game shape,” Cotter said. “I have been working extremely hard on my conditioning, strength and speed to make sure I can do everything possible to help improve the Minnesota Swarm this season. Coach Joe Sullivan has coached me with the Peterborough Lakers and knows I am open to any role that will help the team in a positive way. Whether it’s in transition or playing offensively, I will be ready for both.
“I expect an up-tempo training camp and I would expect everyone to be hungry and ready to go to work with one goal in mind, a championship.”
