NLL Rochester Knighthawks

Gillies Staying 'Home' to Play for Knighthawks

Published on October 29, 2015 under National Lacrosse League (NLL)
Rochester Knighthawks News Release


The Rochester Knighthawks didn't have to look far to take the ninth overall pick in the 2015 National Lacrosse League Entry Draft. With their second pick in the first round, the Knighthawks selected former RIT Tigers star Brad Gillies.

"It's a great feeling. You read about stuff like that," he said. "It gets a little stressful when you are sitting there. The heart starts pounding, but it's such a good relief when you hear your name called."

Among the six young, talented players selected by the Knighthawks in the draft, Gillies will have the shortest commute to his new pro team. Living just one exit away from downtown Rochester, he can reach Connors & Ferris Field at The Blue Cross Arena in about five minutes. Gillies, who has been coming to games for years, was thrilled to become a Knighthawk.

"It feels awesome," he said. "I'm very familiar with the city. I'm living down there right now and I've been to a ton of games. To be able to put that jersey on was an awesome feeling."

On Thursday, the Knighthawks announced that Gillies had agreed to a one-year deal with the team. By signing his first pro contract, it moved the Oakville, Ontario native a little bit closer to achieving his dream of playing the NLL.

"Right now, it's just that first step," he said. "I still have to work to make the team, so that is what I am really focusing on."

Gillies has a lot to build on after completing an outstanding four-year career at RIT. The 24-year-old posted 27 goals, 70 assists and 97 points in 83 games from 2012-15. Last season, the midfielder played in all 22 games and finished sixth on the team in scoring with 53 points. His team-leading 42 assists were also the eighth best total in school history. He was rewarded with Second Team All-Liberty League and Honorable Mention Division III All-American honors.

In 2015, the Tigers (21-1) had another memorable season, capturing their fourth consecutive Liberty League crown and advancing to their second straight NCAA Division III Semifinal. According to RIT head coach and former Knighthawk Jake Coon, Gillies played a huge role in the program's success. Last season, in particular, Coon noted that it was his leadership and versatility that impressed him the most.

"Brad was fantastic for us as a captain. He was a tremendous leader for our team," said Coon. "He has been one of the hardest workers we have ever had. He did a lot for us. His senior year, he played man-up, man-down, took our wings, and was great with ground balls. He was one of those guys who did it all for you. In Division III, a guy like that is priceless."

The Knighthawks and RIT have had a long history together since the National Lacrosse League team came to town in 1995. On Sept. 28th, Gillies became the 10th RIT Tiger drafted by the Knighthawks in the team's 21-year history. RIT assistant coach Shawn Wilkins was one of those picks out of RIT, going in the second round of the 2001 NLL Entry Draft. Having coached Gillies for four years, and knowing his box background, Wilkins was excited that another Tiger was making the jump to the Knighthawks.

"I think he is going to be an asset in transition," said Wilkins. "He is a pretty solid defensive player and will be able to push the ball (up the floor). He has really good skills and makes the right decisions. I wouldn't be surprised if he has a decent amount of points."

In the box game, Gillies honed his skills with the Junior "A" Orangeville Northmen, winning Minto Cups in 2009 and 2012. The past two seasons, he has played for the Oakville Rock of Major Series Lacrosse. Knighthawks head coach Mike Hasen, who coaches the Peterborough Lakers in the summer, noticed Gillies in the several showdowns their teams had during the 2015 season, which included a tough five-game playoff series.

"He is positionally sound, which is something we tend to gravitate toward," said Hasen. "He made it very difficult on our guys to get open looks. He transitioned the ball well and very comfortably.

"From all accounts, he will be a quick study and should be able to pick up what we're doing very simply."

In less than a month, the Knighthawks will open their Training Camp, giving Gillies another chance to impress the coaching staff. On Saturday, Nov. 21st, he will make the short drive from his apartment on Monroe Avenue to East Rochester to get his first taste of pro lacrosse.

"I am really excited. It's going to be a great opportunity," said Gillies. "I know it's going to be tough. It's a tough squad to crack, but I am working really hard to do the best I can to make the team."

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