Rush Name Ryan Keenan Third Captain in Franchise History

The Saskatchewan Rush are getting ready for a pre-season N-L-L game in Moose Jaw on Saturday against the arch-rival Calgary Roughnecks.

Thursday, the Rush named veteran forward Ryan Keenan the third captain in franchise history. The son of Saskatchewan G-M Derek Keenan, Ryan Keenan signed a two year contract extension this summer and it was made abundantly clear that a return to the play-offs was demanded by papa Derek. Keenan says, with the transition to a younger roster, this was the right time for this role as he is one of just three players remaining on the roster from the last Rush championship team in 2018. Following is the news release from Saskatchewan…..

Saskatoon, SK – The Saskatchewan Rush have named Ryan Keenan as the third captain in club history.

Keenan, has spent his entire six-year NLL career in green, amassing 374 points in 107 games, while helping the team capture the 2018 league championship against Rochester.

When he signed his two-year extension this summer, the goal was simply laid out, lead the Saskatchewan Rush back to the playoffs.

Keenan, who’s father Derek gave him the call this summer, made sure the tone was clear before bestowing the captaincy honour on his son.

“It came about really quickly. I wanted to be that guy and I want to be here long term, which is why I signed my extension here,” said Ryan. “It’s so special to be here and play for him. I’m so thankful and couldn’t ask for anything more than to be a part of this organization.”

The offseason brought on drastic changes in the lineup, leaving only three players from the Rush’s last NLL championship in 2018.

“All of a sudden, it seemed to happen so quickly where guys get older, move on and then we’re in a phase to transition to a younger team, so it seems like the right time for me to step up into the role,” commented Keenan. “I was very fortunate to be drafted high, then come on a team that was already championship caliber and winning right away. With that, there were so many veteran guys who were great leaders for me to learn from.”

With an extension signed and the challenge accepted, it’s now time for Keenan to be the next captain and cement his legacy on the Saskatchewan Rush.

“Another championship would be special. It’s our ultimate goal and as you get older you realize you only have so many opportunities to win another one. I definitely want it bad and I know the rest of our group does as well.”