SAINT PAUL, MN - The National Lacrosse League's (NLL) Minnesota Swarm have announced the signings of goaltender Kevin Croswell and forwards Ryan Benesch and Jay Thorimbert to two-year contracts as well as defenseman Scott Self to a one-year contract.In his second season with Minnesota, Croswell, 24, appeared in a career-high 519 minutes of action in 16 contests and finished among the top ten in the league in both GAA (11.21) and SV% (.773). The native of Peterborough, ON finished the season with a 3-4 record and was named "NLL Defensive Player of the Week" during a Week 1 victory over the Portland LumberJax when he stopped 42 of 49 shots in his first career start.
"Kevin was given the opportunity to start a couple of games for us last season and he picked up some nice wins in the process. We are looking for him to improve after a surprising season where he was challenging for a starting position," stated General Manager Marty O'Neill.
Benesch, 24, the former first overall selection in the 2006 NLL Entry Draft was acquired this past June in a trade with the Edmonton Rush during the Dispersal Draft of the Portland LumberJax. He recorded 44 points (17g, 27a) along with 71 loose balls in 14 games with Edmonton and the Toronto Rock in 2009. The native of Kitchener, ON has collected 152 points (69g, 83a) and 206 loose balls in 43 games during his three seasons in the NLL. He was named "NLL Rookie of The Year" in 2007 after scoring 58 points (33g, 25a) in 15 contests with the Rock.
"Out of all the players we have acquired in the offseason, Ryan is someone we know that can score goals and immediately impact our team," said O'Neill.
Minnesota also acquired nine-year veteran Scott Self in the trade with the Rush during the Dispersal Draft. The 30-year-old defenseman collected 90 loose balls and recorded 13 points (5g, 8a) in 16 games with Edmonton in 2009. The native of Peterborough, ON has recorded 121 points (30g, 91a), 655 loose balls and 114 penalty minutes in 125 career NLL contests.
"Scott supplies added experience and leadership in our attempt to return to the playoffs. Self was a key offseason acquisition," stated O'Neill.
Thorimbert, 23, was also acquired this offseason from the Boston Blazers in exchange for a future Swarm 2011 second round draft pick. Last year with the Blazers, the 6' 205 lbs. second-year pro scored 12 points (5g, 7a), collected 84 loose balls and won.583% of face-offs (217/372).
"Jay really addresses our need for a guy in the face-off circle. He also gives us some added size on defense," said O'Neill.
Signings Pending League Approval
• Discuss this story on the National Lacrosse League message board...
• Digg this story
• Add to Del.icio.us
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
