Keenan Returns Behind Rush Bench After Alexander is Let Go

Derek Keenan (pictured) is stepping back behind the bench of the N-L-L’s Saskatchewan Rush.

The Rush G-M announced Tuesday morning that Bruce Alexander has been relieved of his coaching duties with Keenan joining Jimmy Quinlan as co-head coach of a Saskatchewan team that is off to a 1-4 start to the 2023-24 season and in last place in the 15-team league. Keenan is the winningest all-time coach in N-L-L history with 155 and has league championships to his credit with the Rush in 2015, 16 and 18. In addition, Jeremy Tallevi will stay on the bench as the defensive co-ordinator while goalie coach Evan Kirk will take on a more active role with the club for the rest of the season. The Rush are idle until a February 3 home game against Panther City at SaskTel Centre. Following is the news release from the Rush and Les Lazaruk’s interview with Derek Keenan…..

SASKATOON, SK – General Manager Derek Keenan announced today that the Saskatchewan Rush have relieved Bruce Alexander of his coaching duties.

“I owe it to the players, our staff, our fan base and ownership, to do whatever it takes to turn this ship in the right direction,” said Keenan. “We are very close, but close isn’t good enough in the NLL.”

Moving forward, Derek Keenan will take over duties as co-head coach alongside Jimmy Quinlan.

“I see so many good things with this young group and I want to take a more hands-on approach. I am excited and look forward to this opportunity,” added Keenan.

Jeremy Tallevi will stay on the bench as the defensive coordinator, while goalie coach Evan Kirk will take on a more active role with the club for the rest of the season.

Saskatchewan is back in action on February 3^rd when Panther City Lacrosse Club is in town.