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Rochester Knighthawks

Knighthawks Sign Free Agent Jordan Houtby

September 29, 2016 - National Lacrosse League (NLL)
Rochester Knighthawks News Release


Two days after going primarily with offense at the 2016 National Lacrosse League Entry Draft, the Rochester Knighthawks reinforced their defense by signing free agent Jordan Houtby (pronounced HOUT-bee) to a one-year deal.

"I was really excited. There are so many new lacrosse players coming in, especially before the draft. You don't know what teams have roster spots and what they are looking for," he said. "As soon as I got the call, no questions asked, I was ready to go. I am excited to have a chance to play for a team I watched growing up."

The stay-at-home defenseman, who can also push the ball in transition when needed, has all the tools to succeed in Rochester. The 6-3, 180-pound Houtby possesses size and breakaway speed, which is necessary in today's NLL.

"He has good speed and size, which are two elements that we are definitely looking to shore to again," said Knighthawks head coach Mike Hasen. "We are hoping he fits the bill."

The 24-year-old Houtby broke into the National Lacrosse League during the 2014 season, and has spent his entire career with the Minnesota/Georgia Swarm. In 21 games, he posted eight points and 49 loose balls, while causing 20 turnovers. His best season was in 2015, when he appeared in 15 games and recorded career numbers in points (six), loose balls (34) and forced turnovers (15). The Detroit-Mercy product was selected in the fourth round (29th overall) of the 2013 NLL Entry Draft.

In college, Houtby graduated as one of most decorated Titans in school history. In 2013, he was named the Detroit Defensive Player of the Year and Co-MAAC LSM of the Year. He was also selected Detroit's first-ever Scholar All-American and earned a spot in the North-South College All-Star Game - the first Titan to ever appear in the contest. He finished his career as Division I lacrosse's all-time leader in caused turnovers with 158 in 61 games.

While playing at Detroit-Mercy, he was teammates with Knighthawks forward Joel Matthews. The duo also played Junior "A" lacrosse together for the St. Catharines Athletics. Now the St. Catharines, Ontario natives are reunited in Rochester.

"He is full of potential and talent. He is very coachable and gives you an honest effort every night," said Matthews. "He is in great shape and has a high defensive IQ. He was my roommate in college, and he actually assisted my first ever lacrosse goal when I was 10 years old. He is the Division I all-time leader in caused turnovers for a reason. The Knighthawks made an excellent choice by signing Jordan Houtby."

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