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Minnesota Swarm's Craig Point Named NLL Rookie Of The Year

May 13, 2008 - National Lacrosse League (NLL)
Minnesota Swarm News Release


SAINT PAUL/MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. - The National Lacrosse League (NLL) today announced that Minnesota Swarm forward Craig Point has been named the NLL Rookie of the Year and a member of the NLL's All-Rookie Team.

"I am very honored to be named the 2008 NLL Rookie of the Year," said Point. "Playing in the NLL has always been my dream. I didn't think anything would top being one of the first picks in last year's draft but I am very honored and privileged to accept the award," he added. "I would like to say thank you to everyone who has supported me including my family, friends, teammates, fans and the Minnesota Swarm organization."

Point, 22 (1/19/86), led all NLL rookies with 27 goals and set franchise rookie records for goals, assists (34) and points (61) while playing in all 16 during with the Swarm in 2008 helping guide the team to a franchise best 10-6 record. The 5-foot-11, 215-pound forward added eight penalty minutes, 74 loose balls and 29 power play points (10-19=29) and ranked first on the Swarm in power play goals, assist and points, third in goals and points and sixth in loose balls. The Brantford, Ontario native was named the February NLL Rookie of the Month and was named the NLL Rookie of the Week four times during the 2008 campaign.

"The team was much improved offensively with the addition of Craig to the lineup this season," said Minnesota Swarm General Manager Marty O'Neill. "Even though he was a rookie, he added a veteran-like leadership presence and was a big part of our team's success."

Point, the third overall pick in the 2007 NLL Entry Draft, was acquired by Minnesota along with Darren Halls in exchange for Brock Boyle, the Swarm's eighth and 11th overall picks in the 2007 NLL Entry Draft and a third round pick in the 2008 NLL Entry Draft in a draft day trade with Boston on Sept. 1, 2007.

The award winners are chosen by a vote of the leagues coaches, general managers, and executives. Voting for the awards took place following the conclusion of the regular season and prior to the start of the playoffs.

For more information on 2009 Minnesota Swarm season tickets call 888-MNSWARM or info@mnswarm.com.

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