Rochester Knighthawks Retain Defenseman Jon Sullivan

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The Rochester Knighthawks have announced today that they have re-signed defenseman Jon Sullivan to a two-year deal.

“It feels great,” he said. “We have a great group of guys and one of the best, if not the best, organizations in the league.”

In 2016, the 33-year-old will enter his 12th season in the National Lacrosse League. In his career, he has played for Minnesota, Colorado and Rochester, while appearing in 160 games and collecting 566 loose balls to go along with 66 points. Since coming to Rochester on March 12, 2013 in a trade with the Colorado Mammoth, the St. Catharines, Ontario native has won two Champion’s Cups (2013-14).

“Anytime you have a great group and a great organization it’s really special,” he said. “Add to that the success the team has had and it makes for a pretty great place to play.”

During the 2015 campaign, Sullivan was a key member of the league’s top-ranked defense. Last season, he played in a career-high 18 games and posted six points (2+4), which was his highest offensive output since the 2011 season.

“‘Sully’ is as steady as they come,” said Knighthawks defenseman Mike Kirk. “He is smart, knows where to be and he is a great team guy. To have him here for the next couple of years will be a real big help to our back end.”

“‘Sully’ is a great veteran defenseman,” added Knighthawks defenseman Brad Self. “He’s played a long time and has a great understanding of the game. He’s a guy who does everything well and is a great team guy.”

Sullivan is currently playing for the two-time defending Mann Cup champion Six Nations Chiefs. The Chiefs are the top team in Major Series Lacrosse, owning a 13-3 record. He is one of seven Knighthawks on the Chiefs’ roster, which includes Sid Smith, Angus Goodleaf, Colin Boucher, Cody Jamieson, Craig Point and Stephen Keogh. Playing in the MSL is just one way that Sullivan has remained focused on his fitness.

“I play in Six Nations with a lot of the other Knighthawks and am hitting the gym trying to stay healthy,” he said.

Before winning consecutive titles in Rochester and Six Nations, Sullivan captured championships at every level. He won a silver medal with Team Canada at the 2010 FIL World Lacrosse Championships and followed that up with a gold medal at the 2011 World Indoor Lacrosse Championships. He was also a member of the Major League Lacrosse champion Toronto Nationals. His first championship was back in 2003 with the St. Catharines Athletics, where he played alongside Knighthawks goalie Matt Vinc.

“‘Sully’ has been a great ‘D’ guy in this league for several years because of his work ethic and knowledge of the game,” said Vinc. “We have been great friends since we have been kids and it’s great to be able to battle with him each week.”

This season will be Sullivan’s fourth in Rochester, and he has been working hard to get ready for the upcoming season.

“Right now I am focused on the summer season in Six Nations, but I know last season didn’t end the way we wanted to so I am excited to get back into it and improve on last season,” said Sullivan.