Laine Hruska named 2020 ALL Rookie of the Year

Whitby Steelhawks Laine Hruska has been selected the 2020 ALL Rookie of the Year capping off a terrific week after being selected an ALL Second Team ALL-Star as well as being part of the ALL Rookie Team on Wednesday. Hruska who is expected to be a high draft choice in the National Lacrosse League draft tonight put together a solid rookie campaign with a 5 -1 record and league leading 7.57 goals against average as part of a Steelhawks team that topped the ALL with a 9-2 record. Hruska beat out teammate Liam Osborne and Paris RiverWolves forward Kyle Dawson by the narrowest of margins as one vote separated the three.

"Laine is one of the best young goalies I have seen in a while," stated Steelhawks Head Coach and General Manager Gavin Prout. "He always comes to each game prepared and has a high intellect on the shooters he will be facing that day/night. Laine is a very talented goaltender who is looking to improve every chance he can get, hence his moving from his parents home in Saskatchewan to a place here in Whitby so he could play in the ALL for the Steelhawks."

This is the third year in a row that a Steelhawks first year player has taken home the Rookie of the Year honors. Hruska follows Luke Pilcher in 2019 and Austin Murphy (2018), defining the talent that the Steelhawks have continuously being able to find at the draft table.

"We obviously look for talent when we draft but we also look for character guys that fit our team first model," Prout added. "Not only is Laine's attitude top notch, but he is a modest individual and great teammate. This award couldn't be more deserving for an individual with his talent and demeanor. At just 19 years old Laine will continue to improve and there is no doubt in my mind that that he will make it to the next level very soon."

About the Arena Lacrosse League: Proud partners of the National Lacrosse League. the 'ALL' is a seven team league that provides development for players with pro ambitions. Currently in its fourth season the ALL has provided over 75 players to the NLL, many gaining full time pro positions.