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NLL Rochester Knighthawks

Knighthawks Reload Lineup

February 18, 2012 - National Lacrosse League (NLL)
Rochester Knighthawks News Release


(Rochester, February 18)... On Friday, the Rochester Knighthawks activated former two-time NLL Defensive Player of the Year Ryan Cousins, former NLL Rookie of the Year Craig Point, two-time NLL champion Joe Smith and Senior "B" Defenseman of the Year Jamie Batson. Tonight, the Knighthawks will host the Washington Stealth at 7:30 p.m.

Rochester Head Coach Mike Hasen, a standout defenseman during his playing career, was excited to get 31-year-old Ryan Cousins into the lineup.

"He is a smart physical defender that will bring grit and character to our back end," said Hasen. "He is a natural leader that will make his teammates and the opposition accountable."

Cousins was acquired by the Knighthawks in an offseason trade with the Edmonton Rush. He served as Minnesota's team captain since its inception and was named the NLL Defensive Player of the Year and a First Team All-Pro selection in both 2007 and 2008. In 10 seasons with Minnesota, Arizona and Washington, Cousins has posted 78 points (31+47) with 172 loose balls. The Toronto native was selected to the All-Star Game from 2005-09 with the Swarm. He was originally selected in the first round (fifth overall) in the 2002 NLL Entry Draft. Cousins won four straight Mann Cups from 2004-07.

"It's been a long time coming. I am definitely happy to be out there to help these guys any way I can," said Cousins. "I really feel like part of the team now after the first couple of sessions. We have a good squad here and have to keep moving forward."

Point enters his fifth season in the NLL and fourth with the Knighthawks. In 2011, he was fourth on the team with 47 points and third with 27 assists. The Six Nations product had a career season in 2010, scoring a career-best 31 goals to finish second on the team. Point also showed his versatility by winning a team-high 107 faceoffs. In 2008, he was named the NLL Rookie of the Year and a member of the NLL's All-Rookie Team. He was originally selected by Boston in the first round (third overall) of the 2007 NLL Entry Draft. Point was injured on December 17th during the home preseason contest and is back after missing the first six games of the season.

"'Pointer' has worked hard to heal and get himself in shape," said Hasen. "We are looking and expecting him to come in and to contribute offensively right away."

"It feels awesome (to be back). I am pretty anxious," said Point, who has followed the team online and in person. "I am ready to get back at it and help the team."

Batson will make his NLL debut Saturday as he moves from the practice squad to the active roster. He scored in his preseason debut on December 11th against Philadelphia. He attended the Knighthawks' Open Tryouts and Training Camp and was one of the fittest players in camp and won the sprint contest in Open Tryouts.

"He is a young guy that adds sandpaper and speed to our defense," said Hasen.

In 2011, Batson was named the Most Valuable Defensive Player, while playing for the Senior "B" Ohsweken Warriors. The Comox, BC, native finished tied for sixth on the Warriors with 19 points in 14 games (7+12).

"Obviously, it's a dream; it's going to be a great experience," said Batson. "I am looking forward to making the next step with the team."

The third defenseman added to the roster is six-year veteran Joe Smith. The Buffalo native originally signed with the Knighthawks on December 14, 2006. He played one game for the Philadelphia Wings this season on January 27th. During the 2011 season, Smith recorded one assist and 42 loose balls for the Wings. The Towson University grad spent the past three seasons with the Buffalo Bandits. He began his career with the Knighthawks in 2007 and won back-to-back NLL titles, winning with Rochester in 2007 and Buffalo in 2008.

"He is a physical veteran defender that understands our systems," said Hasen. "His experience will bring an immediate presence on the floor."

"It's a good feeling being back where I started my indoor career and won a championship in 2007," added Smith. "I will do anything I can to help this team get back to its winning ways."

Before tonight's game, the team will induct defensemen Regy Thorpe and Pat Cougevan into the Knighthawks' Hall of Fame. The first 5,000 fans will receive a Knighthawks wall decal. Individual tickets are on sale at all Ticketmaster outlets, ticketmaster.com, at The Blue Cross Arena Box Office or by calling 1-800-745-3000.

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