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NLL Rochester Knighthawks

Knighthawks Announce 2013 Award Winners

April 28, 2013 - National Lacrosse League (NLL)
Rochester Knighthawks News Release


For the second time in three seasons, goalie Matt Vinc was voted the Rochester Knighthawks' Most Valuable Player. Vinc was honored, along with four of his teammates Saturday night, for their performances during the 2013 National Lacrosse League season.

Vinc was one of four repeat winners for the Knighthawks. In 2013, the St. Catharines, Ontario native set the Knighthawks and NLL single-season saves record with 662 stops. The Rochester goalie led the league with a 10.17 goals-against average and a .803 save percentage. He also set Rochester single-season records for save percentage and saves.

Joe Walters made it four straight seasons that he has received the team's Community Service Award, while Sid Smith was honored as the Best Defenseman for the third time. Cory Vitarelli has now captured the Unsung Hero Award in back-to-back seasons. Jamie Batson was the only first-time winner, taking home Most Improved Player honors.

Walters was again recognized for his work in his hometown, especially for his efforts to tackle bullying. The Rochester native reached over 3,000 kids in 13 schools throughout Western NY as part of the "We Got Your Back" program. On the field, he has enjoyed unprecedented success, setting career highs in goals, assists and points.

Another repeat winner was Sid Smith, who captured the Best Defenseman award for the third time in his career. Smith was named the co-winner of the honor in 2010 and 2011. The Knighthawks captain played in all 16 games this season and finished first in caused turnovers and fourth in loose balls.

Vitarelli also added another trophy to his collection by capturing the Unsung Hero Award for the second straight year. He becomes the first back-to-back winner since current Head Coach Mike Hasen accomplished the feat as a player from 2000-01 to 2001-02. Vitarelli finished second on the team in goals for the second straight season, and was third in points.

As the only first-time winner, Batson earned the team's Most Improved Player honor. The second-year pro played provided numerous punishing checks and collected 18 loose balls this season.

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