Buffalo Bandits
CRITCH NAMED ROOKIE OF THE WEEK
4/19/13
The National Lacrosse League today announced that Buffalo Bandits transition player Jordan Critch has been named NLL “Rookie of the Week” for Week 15 of the 2013 NLL season.Critch, who entered the week with one goal and no assists in three career games, tallied two goals and two assists in Buffalo’s 15-10 win against the Washington Stealth on Saturday, April 13. The win kept Buffalo’s 2013 playoff hopes alive.
The 22-year-old Orangeville, Ontario native, was Buffalo’s second-round selection in the 2012 NLL Entry Draft. Critch becomes the Bandits’ fourth Player of the Week selection of the 2013 season, joining Anthony Cosmo (Defensive Player of the Week – Week 7), Jay Thorimbert and Alexander “Kedoh” Hill.
The National Lacrosse League today announced that Buffalo Bandits transition player Jordan Critch has been named NLL “Rookie of the Week” for Week 15 of the 2013 NLL season.Critch, who entered the week with one goal and no assists in three career games, tallied two goals and two assists in Buffalo’s 15-10 win against the Washington Stealth on Saturday, April 13. The win kept Buffalo’s 2013 playoff hopes alive.
The 22-year-old Orangeville, Ontario native, was Buffalo’s second-round selection in the 2012 NLL Entry Draft. Critch becomes the Bandits’ fourth Player of the Week selection of the 2013 season, joining Anthony Cosmo (Defensive Player of the Week – Week 7), Jay Thorimbert and Alexander “Kedoh” Hill.
SPORTS PROMOTIONS ON MY BIRTHDAY!
4/18/13
The Buffalo Bandits today announced plans to thank their fans for all their support in 2013 by hosting “Fan Appreciation Night” when the Bandits take on the Rochester Knighthawks in their final home game of the regular season at First Niagara Center on Saturday, April 20 at 7:30 p.m.
The Bandits will show their appreciation during the home finale with several contests and giveaways. Upon entering First Niagara Center, the first 10,000 fans will receive a Bandits team photo.Prior to the opening faceoff, the Bandits will honor the 2013 Bandits Fan of the Year, voted on by Bandits fans at Bandits.com. The winning fan received over 60 percent of the votes and will receive a trophy, a “Fan of the Year” jersey, and a pair of Bandits season tickets for the 2014 season.Several in-game promotions will also run throughout the night, including the “ROWards” program, in which everyone seated in a select row receives a prize. Contests involving fan participation will take place for chances to win great Bandits prizes.
The Buffalo Bandits today announced plans to thank their fans for all their support in 2013 by hosting “Fan Appreciation Night” when the Bandits take on the Rochester Knighthawks in their final home game of the regular season at First Niagara Center on Saturday, April 20 at 7:30 p.m.
The Bandits will show their appreciation during the home finale with several contests and giveaways. Upon entering First Niagara Center, the first 10,000 fans will receive a Bandits team photo.Prior to the opening faceoff, the Bandits will honor the 2013 Bandits Fan of the Year, voted on by Bandits fans at Bandits.com. The winning fan received over 60 percent of the votes and will receive a trophy, a “Fan of the Year” jersey, and a pair of Bandits season tickets for the 2014 season.Several in-game promotions will also run throughout the night, including the “ROWards” program, in which everyone seated in a select row receives a prize. Contests involving fan participation will take place for chances to win great Bandits prizes.
AFTER A 6 GAME LOSING STREAK, THE BANDITS CAN'T FIGHT BACK
4/1/13
The Bandits season went by way too fast, and for the most part, the club could not rebound from the six-game losing streak. No matter how hard the team tried – you could see that in the last regular season game – they just couldn’t close it out with a win. As the clock hit zero, there was nothing to show for their hard work. From individual off-season workouts, the rigors of training camp in December, and the 16-game season, too much got away from this team. Coaches asked questions, pushed buttons, and tried to figure things out; The Bandit players did the same, game after game, practice after practice. By the end of the season, it was down to wining the battles in five-minute segments. They tried to do it as a team, but it just didn’t work out.
With a team that was talented and close-knit, this was not supposed to happen. A total of 124,960 faithful fans - an average of 15,620 per game - watched in complete frustration as the Bandits managed just two home wins - and those were back in January. And another six losses in a row?
So many highs and lows this year make it tough to accept the fact the season is over.
Many of you are asking how can this happen to a team like the Bandits. For the first time since 2002, the Bandits will not be in the playoffs.
Now, there is nowhere to go but up.
Nobody is more frustrated than general manager Steve Dietrich, head coach Darris Kilgour and director of lacrosse operations Scott Loffler. Planning for the 2013 season started back in June, with changes in personnel and the reorganization of the roster.
The Bandits season went by way too fast, and for the most part, the club could not rebound from the six-game losing streak. No matter how hard the team tried – you could see that in the last regular season game – they just couldn’t close it out with a win. As the clock hit zero, there was nothing to show for their hard work. From individual off-season workouts, the rigors of training camp in December, and the 16-game season, too much got away from this team. Coaches asked questions, pushed buttons, and tried to figure things out; The Bandit players did the same, game after game, practice after practice. By the end of the season, it was down to wining the battles in five-minute segments. They tried to do it as a team, but it just didn’t work out.
With a team that was talented and close-knit, this was not supposed to happen. A total of 124,960 faithful fans - an average of 15,620 per game - watched in complete frustration as the Bandits managed just two home wins - and those were back in January. And another six losses in a row?
So many highs and lows this year make it tough to accept the fact the season is over.
Many of you are asking how can this happen to a team like the Bandits. For the first time since 2002, the Bandits will not be in the playoffs.
Now, there is nowhere to go but up.
Nobody is more frustrated than general manager Steve Dietrich, head coach Darris Kilgour and director of lacrosse operations Scott Loffler. Planning for the 2013 season started back in June, with changes in personnel and the reorganization of the roster.
BANDITS ACQUIRE HILL, TWO DRAFT PICKS ON DEADLINE DAY
3/14/13
The Buffalo Bandits today announced that the team has acquired forward Alex “Kedoh” Hill and two draft picks in separate deadline-day trades with the Rochester Knighthawks and Philadelphia Wings.
The Bandits acquired Hill in a trade with the Knighthawks in exchange for defenseman Scott Self. In another trade with Rochester, Buffalo has acquired a second-round selection in the 2013 NLL Entry Draft in exchange for transition player Jimmy Purves.
The team also acquired a conditional third-round selection in the 2013 NLL Entry Draft from Philadelphia in exchange for the negotiating rights to goaltender Mike Thompson.
In another deadline-day trade, Buffalo traded a sixth round selection in the 2015 Entry Draft to the Toronto Rock in exchange for the rights to Steve Dietrich.
The team also announced that forward Derek Hopcroft and has been activated from the Bandits’ practice squad, filling the roster spot opened up by the transactions.
The Buffalo Bandits today announced that the team has acquired forward Alex “Kedoh” Hill and two draft picks in separate deadline-day trades with the Rochester Knighthawks and Philadelphia Wings.
The Bandits acquired Hill in a trade with the Knighthawks in exchange for defenseman Scott Self. In another trade with Rochester, Buffalo has acquired a second-round selection in the 2013 NLL Entry Draft in exchange for transition player Jimmy Purves.
The team also acquired a conditional third-round selection in the 2013 NLL Entry Draft from Philadelphia in exchange for the negotiating rights to goaltender Mike Thompson.
In another deadline-day trade, Buffalo traded a sixth round selection in the 2015 Entry Draft to the Toronto Rock in exchange for the rights to Steve Dietrich.
The team also announced that forward Derek Hopcroft and has been activated from the Bandits’ practice squad, filling the roster spot opened up by the transactions.
BANDITS TO HOST ‘SCOUT NIGHT’ ON MARCH 9
3/6/13
The Buffalo Bandits today announced the team will host “Scout Night” for the team’s game on Saturday, March 9 against the Colorado Mammoth. Discounted tickets to the game will be available for all members of Boy Scout and Girl Scout organizations. The 300-level tickets will cost $12.00, which is a savings of $15 per ticket. With each ticket purchased, $2 will be donated to the Scout organization.
Fans will also have the option to purchase a “Scout Meal Deal,” which includes: (1) hot dog, (1) soda, and (1) popcorn for $6 (a savings of $5). This deal is only redeemable on March 9 and must be purchased in advance.
All scout tickets will also include a free Bandits Scout patch and any Scout that comes to the game dressed in his or her uniform will receive a free Bandits lithograph poster.
The Buffalo Bandits today announced the team will host “Scout Night” for the team’s game on Saturday, March 9 against the Colorado Mammoth. Discounted tickets to the game will be available for all members of Boy Scout and Girl Scout organizations. The 300-level tickets will cost $12.00, which is a savings of $15 per ticket. With each ticket purchased, $2 will be donated to the Scout organization.
Fans will also have the option to purchase a “Scout Meal Deal,” which includes: (1) hot dog, (1) soda, and (1) popcorn for $6 (a savings of $5). This deal is only redeemable on March 9 and must be purchased in advance.
All scout tickets will also include a free Bandits Scout patch and any Scout that comes to the game dressed in his or her uniform will receive a free Bandits lithograph poster.
BANDITS ANNOUNCE JERSEY AUCTION, ‘ORANGE LACROSSE BALL SURPRISE’ TO BENEFIT
CHARITY
2/27/13
Buffalo Bandits Director of Lacrosse Operations Scott Loffler today announced that the Bandits will help raise money for three worthy causes at two future 2013 Bandits home games.
On Saturday, March 9 against the Colorado Mammoth, the Bandits will once again offer the “Orange Lacrosse Ball Surprise.” For just a $10 donation, Bandits fans will receive an orange lacrosse ball in a drawstring bag. Each lacrosse ball sold will be signed by either a Bandits player, a Bandits coach or the entire team. The Buffalo Bandettes and Bandits staff members will be located at tables in the First Niagara Center pavilion selling the lacrosse balls from 6 p.m. until the last one is sold. Net proceeds from the sale of the orange lacrosse balls will benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foudnation and the Buffalo Bandettes.
For the Saturday, March 23 home game against the Edmonton Rush, the Bandits will once again show their support for the fight against cancer by wearing special jerseys for their annual “Black Out Cancer” game. Fans will have two opportunities to win game-worn jerseys from this game.
Starting on Monday, March 4 at 9 a.m., fans can visit Bandits.com to bid on jerseys to be worn by the Bandits players during the first half of the March 23 game. Winning bidders for these jerseys will have the opportunity to have a loved one’s name embroidered into the back jersey number of the jersey they won. The Bandits player will then wear this jersey during the first half of the game as a way to honor or remember the person that was affected by cancer.
Buffalo Bandits Director of Lacrosse Operations Scott Loffler today announced that the Bandits will help raise money for three worthy causes at two future 2013 Bandits home games.
On Saturday, March 9 against the Colorado Mammoth, the Bandits will once again offer the “Orange Lacrosse Ball Surprise.” For just a $10 donation, Bandits fans will receive an orange lacrosse ball in a drawstring bag. Each lacrosse ball sold will be signed by either a Bandits player, a Bandits coach or the entire team. The Buffalo Bandettes and Bandits staff members will be located at tables in the First Niagara Center pavilion selling the lacrosse balls from 6 p.m. until the last one is sold. Net proceeds from the sale of the orange lacrosse balls will benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foudnation and the Buffalo Bandettes.
For the Saturday, March 23 home game against the Edmonton Rush, the Bandits will once again show their support for the fight against cancer by wearing special jerseys for their annual “Black Out Cancer” game. Fans will have two opportunities to win game-worn jerseys from this game.
Starting on Monday, March 4 at 9 a.m., fans can visit Bandits.com to bid on jerseys to be worn by the Bandits players during the first half of the March 23 game. Winning bidders for these jerseys will have the opportunity to have a loved one’s name embroidered into the back jersey number of the jersey they won. The Bandits player will then wear this jersey during the first half of the game as a way to honor or remember the person that was affected by cancer.
COSMO NAMED NLL ‘DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK’
2/20/13
The National Lacrosse League today announced that Buffalo Bandits goaltender Anthony Cosmo has been named NLL “Defensive Player of the Week” for Week 7 of
the 2013 NLL season.
Cosmo made 54 saves on 60 shots this past Saturday against the Rochester Knighthawks, backstopping the Bandits to a 10-6 victory at the Blue Cross Arena in Rochester New York. His 54 saves were an NLL high in 2013 and his .900 save percentage in the win was the best in the NLL this season by a goaltender playing a complete game. Additionally, the six goals against tied for fewest in an NLL game this season.
The win improved the Bandits’ record to 4-3, ranking them second in the East Division and third in the NLL. The team is off this weekend, but will return to action next week with divisional matchups on Thursday, Feb. 28 at Toronto and Friday, March 1 vs. Philadelphia.
The weekly player award winners are selected by a vote of the league’s general managers and head coaches.
The National Lacrosse League today announced that Buffalo Bandits goaltender Anthony Cosmo has been named NLL “Defensive Player of the Week” for Week 7 of
the 2013 NLL season.
Cosmo made 54 saves on 60 shots this past Saturday against the Rochester Knighthawks, backstopping the Bandits to a 10-6 victory at the Blue Cross Arena in Rochester New York. His 54 saves were an NLL high in 2013 and his .900 save percentage in the win was the best in the NLL this season by a goaltender playing a complete game. Additionally, the six goals against tied for fewest in an NLL game this season.
The win improved the Bandits’ record to 4-3, ranking them second in the East Division and third in the NLL. The team is off this weekend, but will return to action next week with divisional matchups on Thursday, Feb. 28 at Toronto and Friday, March 1 vs. Philadelphia.
The weekly player award winners are selected by a vote of the league’s general managers and head coaches.
SECOND TIMES THE CHARM
Mike Hominuck
2/15/13
To say Buffalo Bandits forward Mike Hominuck is an NLL journeyman would be understatement. Hominuck was most recently traded to the Bandits this past offseason as part of a deal that sent Kevin Buchanan to Philadelphia.
This will be Hominuck’s second stint with the Bandits. After playing 10 games over two seasons with Buffalo, Hominuck went on to be drafted by the Portland LumberJax in the 2006 expansion draft for parts of two seasons. In his first season with Portalnd, Hominuck broke out, registering 53 points (28 goals, 25 assists).
However, he was traded to the Minnesota Swarm halfway through the 2007 regular season, despite being on his way to another 50-plus point season. He would finish the season with 52 points.
During the 2008 season, Hominuck was once again on his way to another 50-plus point season. Still, the Swarm opted to ship him off to Edmonton half way through that season.
Hominuck’s production dipped slightly in his first full season with the Rush in 2009, as he registered 47 points. Hominuck was then moved once more that season, being sent to the Toronto Rock.
The 2010 season was a struggle for Hominuck, as he only played nine games in an injury-plagued season. This lead Hominuck to decide to take the following season off from lacrosse. He was subsequently placed on waivers by the Rock, and released.
In the summer of 2011, Hominuck joined a summer league, winning the Mann Cup as a member of the Brampton Excelsiors. That, in turn, would earn him a tryout, and eventual contract, with the Philadelphia Wings for the 2012 NLL regular season.
To say Buffalo Bandits forward Mike Hominuck is an NLL journeyman would be understatement. Hominuck was most recently traded to the Bandits this past offseason as part of a deal that sent Kevin Buchanan to Philadelphia.
This will be Hominuck’s second stint with the Bandits. After playing 10 games over two seasons with Buffalo, Hominuck went on to be drafted by the Portland LumberJax in the 2006 expansion draft for parts of two seasons. In his first season with Portalnd, Hominuck broke out, registering 53 points (28 goals, 25 assists).
However, he was traded to the Minnesota Swarm halfway through the 2007 regular season, despite being on his way to another 50-plus point season. He would finish the season with 52 points.
During the 2008 season, Hominuck was once again on his way to another 50-plus point season. Still, the Swarm opted to ship him off to Edmonton half way through that season.
Hominuck’s production dipped slightly in his first full season with the Rush in 2009, as he registered 47 points. Hominuck was then moved once more that season, being sent to the Toronto Rock.
The 2010 season was a struggle for Hominuck, as he only played nine games in an injury-plagued season. This lead Hominuck to decide to take the following season off from lacrosse. He was subsequently placed on waivers by the Rock, and released.
In the summer of 2011, Hominuck joined a summer league, winning the Mann Cup as a member of the Brampton Excelsiors. That, in turn, would earn him a tryout, and eventual contract, with the Philadelphia Wings for the 2012 NLL regular season.
BANDITS SIGN GOALTENDER SCOTT KOMER
2/14/2013
The Buffalo Bandits today announced that the team has agreed to terms with goaltender Scott Komer on a one-year deal.
Komer joins the Bandits after spending parts of two seasons in the Canadian Lacrosse League. He appeared in 11 games in 2012 for the Peel Avengers and has played in three this season with the Barrie Blizzard.
Komer last saw NLL action when he played in six games for the Bandits in the 2001 season, going 1-0 with a 16.79 goals against average and .659 save percentage.
The Bandits also announced that they have released goaltender Kurtis Wagar to the practice squad to accommodate for Komer’s signing.
The Buffalo Bandits today announced that the team has agreed to terms with goaltender Scott Komer on a one-year deal.
Komer joins the Bandits after spending parts of two seasons in the Canadian Lacrosse League. He appeared in 11 games in 2012 for the Peel Avengers and has played in three this season with the Barrie Blizzard.
Komer last saw NLL action when he played in six games for the Bandits in the 2001 season, going 1-0 with a 16.79 goals against average and .659 save percentage.
The Bandits also announced that they have released goaltender Kurtis Wagar to the practice squad to accommodate for Komer’s signing.
Bandits lose to another NY team, Rochester Knighthawks
2/12/13
Knighthawks had some valuable players who helped tremendously in the takeover of the Bandits. Two players combined had 13 points between their assists and goals. The Knighthawks beat the Bandits 15-7, while the Rochester goalie had an incredible 48 saves in the entire game. This is the second game in a row the Bandits scored their season low 7 goals.
The Bandits have now lost two straight and finished a three-game home stand 1-2.The Bandits did not lead once in the game and didn’t get off to the start they wanted. Less than a minute into the game, Bandits forward Chad Culp was cross-checked from behind and got shaken up on the play.
The Bandits coach, Kilgour remarks that the incident early on shouldn't of dictated the entire game. “You can’t blame a play that happened in the first minute of the game on what happened in the other 59 minutes,” Kilgour said. “We got outplayed in every aspect of the game.”
The Knighthawks managed four unanswered goals before the Bandits could answer back and never really gave the Bandits an opportunity for a comeback. Bandits captain John Tavares once again sat the game out with a calf injury. The team still refused to allow his absence to serve as an excuse for the loss.
“We can’t blame it on not having someone in the lineup,” Kilgour said. “We have to look at ourselves as coaches and as players and we have to get better.” The Bandits will have an opportunity to avenge the loss right away, as they well travel to Rochester next Saturday to play the Knighthawks once more to close out the home and home series. The Bandits beat the Knighthawks, 14-13, the first time they played in Rochester this season.
Knighthawks had some valuable players who helped tremendously in the takeover of the Bandits. Two players combined had 13 points between their assists and goals. The Knighthawks beat the Bandits 15-7, while the Rochester goalie had an incredible 48 saves in the entire game. This is the second game in a row the Bandits scored their season low 7 goals.
The Bandits have now lost two straight and finished a three-game home stand 1-2.The Bandits did not lead once in the game and didn’t get off to the start they wanted. Less than a minute into the game, Bandits forward Chad Culp was cross-checked from behind and got shaken up on the play.
The Bandits coach, Kilgour remarks that the incident early on shouldn't of dictated the entire game. “You can’t blame a play that happened in the first minute of the game on what happened in the other 59 minutes,” Kilgour said. “We got outplayed in every aspect of the game.”
The Knighthawks managed four unanswered goals before the Bandits could answer back and never really gave the Bandits an opportunity for a comeback. Bandits captain John Tavares once again sat the game out with a calf injury. The team still refused to allow his absence to serve as an excuse for the loss.
“We can’t blame it on not having someone in the lineup,” Kilgour said. “We have to look at ourselves as coaches and as players and we have to get better.” The Bandits will have an opportunity to avenge the loss right away, as they well travel to Rochester next Saturday to play the Knighthawks once more to close out the home and home series. The Bandits beat the Knighthawks, 14-13, the first time they played in Rochester this season.
Stud Defender is finally back
2/10/13
It’s been a long road back for Buffalo Bandits defender Billy Dee Smith to get back to playing the sport that he loves. In summer of 2010, Smith tore his ACL while playing for team Canada in the World Games in London, England. After a year of recovery and rehab, Smith discovered that he had some cartilage missing from his right knee during the following NLL season and decided to battle through that issue. Then, at the end of last season, Smith was given a two-game suspension for an incident in the final game of the season. After sitting out for two games, he sustained a high ankle sprain and missed another game.
Smith was finally able to make his return in what would turn into a last-minute win for the Bandits in a game against the Philadelphia Wings. He couldn’t be happier to be returning to action in full health.
"It was good to help the team and anchor the team defense.” -Smith
The biggest challenge for Smith was literally getting back up to speed. Smith has always been counted on to defend against the opponents top players, and he wasn’t always able to do that in his two-year struggle with injuries. Smith has become known as a competitor and an aggressive player. Bandits head coach Darris Kilgour believes that gives the team a huge advantage. As with any athlete battling injury, the frustration was mounting for Smith. However, thanks to his constant drive and determination, he never once thought of throwing in the towel.
“When he’s in the lineup, he brings a different factor to the team,” Kilgour said. “The matchup he brings and the way he plays, a lot of guys don’t like playing against him.”
It’s been a long road back for Buffalo Bandits defender Billy Dee Smith to get back to playing the sport that he loves. In summer of 2010, Smith tore his ACL while playing for team Canada in the World Games in London, England. After a year of recovery and rehab, Smith discovered that he had some cartilage missing from his right knee during the following NLL season and decided to battle through that issue. Then, at the end of last season, Smith was given a two-game suspension for an incident in the final game of the season. After sitting out for two games, he sustained a high ankle sprain and missed another game.
Smith was finally able to make his return in what would turn into a last-minute win for the Bandits in a game against the Philadelphia Wings. He couldn’t be happier to be returning to action in full health.
"It was good to help the team and anchor the team defense.” -Smith
The biggest challenge for Smith was literally getting back up to speed. Smith has always been counted on to defend against the opponents top players, and he wasn’t always able to do that in his two-year struggle with injuries. Smith has become known as a competitor and an aggressive player. Bandits head coach Darris Kilgour believes that gives the team a huge advantage. As with any athlete battling injury, the frustration was mounting for Smith. However, thanks to his constant drive and determination, he never once thought of throwing in the towel.
“When he’s in the lineup, he brings a different factor to the team,” Kilgour said. “The matchup he brings and the way he plays, a lot of guys don’t like playing against him.”
Bandits offer Play like the Pros Clinic
2/5/13
Buffalo Bandits Director of Lacrosse Operations Scott Loffler today announced that Bandits forward Tracey Kelusky will once again conduct three separate “Play Like the Pros” lacrosse clinics at First Niagara Center this Spring for children ages 8 to 16 years old.The goal of the clinic is to inform and instruct participants on how they can improve each and every aspect of their own individual lacrosse game while having fun.
The cost of each session is $59 per child and includes instruction from Kelusky, a 13-year National Lacrosse League veteran, and other Bandits players. In addition, participants will receive a pizza party courtesy of Pizza Hut, locker room tour, lacrosse practice jersey, Bandits yearbook, limited edition lithograph and two vouchers that can be redeemed for tickets to a Bandits regular season home game.
The date and times for the clinics are as follows:
The cost of each session is $59 per child and includes instruction from Kelusky, a 13-year National Lacrosse League veteran, and other Bandits players. In addition, participants will receive a pizza party courtesy of Pizza Hut, locker room tour, lacrosse practice jersey, Bandits yearbook, limited edition lithograph and two vouchers that can be redeemed for tickets to a Bandits regular season home game.
The date and times for the clinics are as follows:
- Saturday, March 9...........12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
- Saturday, March 23..........12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
- Saturday, April 20............12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Buffalo announces new App
2/3/13
The Buffalo Bandits have announced the release of the team’s official mobile application across the iPhone and Android platforms. The free app – which can be
downloaded now on iTunes, the Android Market and Google Play– includes a wide range of features designed to keep fans connected to the team through their
mobile devices.
“This app was designed with the fan in mind and we know it’s going to enhance their experience with the team.”
Sections of the app will give fans an easier way to access the team schedule, purchase tickets and take advantage of special promotions for tickets, food and merchandise while attending games. Roster sections will offer the 2013 active roster list for the Bandits and the Bandits’ official dance team, the Bandettes.
downloaded now on iTunes, the Android Market and Google Play– includes a wide range of features designed to keep fans connected to the team through their
mobile devices.
“This app was designed with the fan in mind and we know it’s going to enhance their experience with the team.”
Sections of the app will give fans an easier way to access the team schedule, purchase tickets and take advantage of special promotions for tickets, food and merchandise while attending games. Roster sections will offer the 2013 active roster list for the Bandits and the Bandits’ official dance team, the Bandettes.
Bandits winning streak ends
2/1/13
The Buffalo Bandits (3-2) had their three-game winning streak ended on Saturday night against the Toronto Rock (5-1) with a tough 14-12 loss. The loss also ends a
home winning streak of five games.
The problem of penalties once again came back to bite the Bandits. Billy Dee Smith took a five-minute major penalty and a two-minute minor for slashing four
minutes in the second quarter. The Rock were able to score two goals quickly on the advantage play. Later in the game, Hayden Smith took a five-minute major after Scott Evans had take a five-minute match penalty for the Rock. That all but thwarted the Bandits comeback hopes. The Rock registered a total of four power play goals in the game.
The Bandits were able to control play early. They had three or four quality scoring opportunities in the opening minutes of the game. Opposing goalie Nick Rose, was able to stand tall, however, and shut each opportunity down. Rose finished with 45 saves.Bandits goalie Anthony Cosmo played well, making 32 saves of his own, but Kilgour thinks he could have gotten more from his starting goalie.
home winning streak of five games.
The problem of penalties once again came back to bite the Bandits. Billy Dee Smith took a five-minute major penalty and a two-minute minor for slashing four
minutes in the second quarter. The Rock were able to score two goals quickly on the advantage play. Later in the game, Hayden Smith took a five-minute major after Scott Evans had take a five-minute match penalty for the Rock. That all but thwarted the Bandits comeback hopes. The Rock registered a total of four power play goals in the game.
The Bandits were able to control play early. They had three or four quality scoring opportunities in the opening minutes of the game. Opposing goalie Nick Rose, was able to stand tall, however, and shut each opportunity down. Rose finished with 45 saves.Bandits goalie Anthony Cosmo played well, making 32 saves of his own, but Kilgour thinks he could have gotten more from his starting goalie.
Victory over Philadelphia Wings in Seconds
“It’s just playing lacrosse. The good things happen when you play simple,” Williams said.
1/29/13
Bandits faced the Philadelphia Wings Saturday at the First Niagara Arena. Luke Wiles had the game winning goal with less than 24 seconds left on a power play. THe final score was 14-13. This was the wings first lost and puts the Bandits on a 3 game winning streak. Mike Hominuck had his second game in a row hat trick.
The Wings, however, went on to score four answered goals, including two power play goals, to take a 5-3 lead. Jordan Hall added two of his three goals in that time period. The Bandits would come roaring back with four unanswered goals of their own, including Hominuck’s hat trick goal.
The teams continued to go back and forth. But fortunately for the Bandits they often answered Philadelphia’s tying goals with one or two of their own.
The crowd went wild when Bandits captain John Tavares appeared to have scored the game winner with just over four minutes remaining in the game, as he ripped a point shot past Brandon Miller to give the Bandits a 13-12 lead.The Bandits turned the ball over and the Wings player, Brodie Merill shot and hit the post on a 2 v 1. Wings player, Westervelt got the rebound and scored with 40 seconds left in the game.
While the Bandits were still on the power play, Wiles took a 5 hole shot with 26 seconds left to give the bandits the one point win.
Shawn Williams also had a big game. Playing in his NLL-record 200th consecutive game, Williams tallied six assists in the game.
The Wings, however, went on to score four answered goals, including two power play goals, to take a 5-3 lead. Jordan Hall added two of his three goals in that time period. The Bandits would come roaring back with four unanswered goals of their own, including Hominuck’s hat trick goal.
The teams continued to go back and forth. But fortunately for the Bandits they often answered Philadelphia’s tying goals with one or two of their own.
The crowd went wild when Bandits captain John Tavares appeared to have scored the game winner with just over four minutes remaining in the game, as he ripped a point shot past Brandon Miller to give the Bandits a 13-12 lead.The Bandits turned the ball over and the Wings player, Brodie Merill shot and hit the post on a 2 v 1. Wings player, Westervelt got the rebound and scored with 40 seconds left in the game.
While the Bandits were still on the power play, Wiles took a 5 hole shot with 26 seconds left to give the bandits the one point win.
Shawn Williams also had a big game. Playing in his NLL-record 200th consecutive game, Williams tallied six assists in the game.
Player to GM
"Some people aspire to be a coach, I aspired to be a GM and I aspired to be a GM in Buffalo.”
1/25/13
I admire Steve Dietrich. For those who are unfamiliar, Dietrich was a famous player in the NLL. He has the reputation of being a tremendous goalie playing for the Buffalo Bandits. Dietrich was recently inducted into the Hall of Fame. The goalie was quoted saying that as a player you don't play to be inducted into the hall of fame. You don't look at yourself as a hall of famer, you never imagine yourself being inducted.
His glory didn't stop there, for the retired athlete found himself back in the Buffalo area a couple years later with a general manager spot opening just calling his name. Dietrich was hired as the GM for his open mindedness and confidence is declaring his goals for the 2013 season.
Dietrich has many goals for the Bandits. The Bandits 2012 season disappointed many as a combination of their 7-9 record and losing in the first round of playoffs. Dietrich talks about his first goal which is getting players to regain their pride in being a Buffalo Bandit. He speaks highly of running through the tunnel with 18,000 fans cheering him on. The Buffalo Bandits fans are said to be the biggest western new york fan base. Every game the now, Niagara Arena, almost reaches full capacacity as the fans scream for the fast paced-intense-violent sport. Dietrich wants to bring in players who don't take being a Buffalo Bandit for granted.
As a new GM to a team, all eyes are on the new guy to see how he performs and if he has what it takes to motivate his team to success. The team has a record so far of 2-1, but Dietrich realizes improvement along the way is key to returning his players pride of representing themselves for the city of Buffalo.
His glory didn't stop there, for the retired athlete found himself back in the Buffalo area a couple years later with a general manager spot opening just calling his name. Dietrich was hired as the GM for his open mindedness and confidence is declaring his goals for the 2013 season.
Dietrich has many goals for the Bandits. The Bandits 2012 season disappointed many as a combination of their 7-9 record and losing in the first round of playoffs. Dietrich talks about his first goal which is getting players to regain their pride in being a Buffalo Bandit. He speaks highly of running through the tunnel with 18,000 fans cheering him on. The Buffalo Bandits fans are said to be the biggest western new york fan base. Every game the now, Niagara Arena, almost reaches full capacacity as the fans scream for the fast paced-intense-violent sport. Dietrich wants to bring in players who don't take being a Buffalo Bandit for granted.
As a new GM to a team, all eyes are on the new guy to see how he performs and if he has what it takes to motivate his team to success. The team has a record so far of 2-1, but Dietrich realizes improvement along the way is key to returning his players pride of representing themselves for the city of Buffalo.
The Basics on MLL
1/20/13
The Buffalo Bandits is a professional mens lacrosse team nationally recognized in the NLL. The NLL represents the National Lacrosse League. NLL is an indoor box lacrosse league. As the weeks go on, the terminology of lacrosse will become more familiar. Box lacrosse is played with 5 field players from each team along with 2 goalies defending their nets. The best way to describe NLL is to imagine hockey, lacrosse, basketball and handball combined. It is a very physical game, from men ranging to age 20 (Dhane Smith) to 45, the famous John Tavares. It is a contact sport and fighting occurs regularly. Players who receive penalties are sent to the box to sit out their minutes.
NLL has a 30 second shot clock, imitating basketball. The shot clock starts over when a shot has hit the pipe of the goal. The ball cannot be off-sides. After every goal, the centers draw and it is usual to see centers only enter the game to draw and then leave right after. The crease which is the circle surrounding the goalie and the net, protects the goalie. NLL has a reputation of sick shots behind the back and scoring by jumping from behind the goal. This is possible in NLL because players are allowed in the crease without the ball. In womens lacrosse, field players are never in the crease-even if a goal is scored the players cannot enter the crease or the goal is taken away. Therefore, in NLL, the players are allowed to jump and shoot not having to worry about getting called.
The style of play in the MLL is physical, quick and intense. It is composed of four 15 minute quarters. There are no D-poles in MLL, only attack short sticks. The athletes are divided into attack and defense like hockey, but all players usually play both sides of the field. The games are played indoor arenas with turf like material as the floor. The difference is that it is not as thick and concrete under the turf. This allows for bounce passes to be a regular part of the game. Shift changes happen similar to hockey actually. No line plays for more than a minute unless there is a power play.
The Buffalo Bandits is a hometown favorite in the Western NY area. There are 23 men on the roster with 2 goalies. Evey bandit fan favors Steenhuis as well as Travares. It appears that Shawn Williams (Willy) is set to break a record of games played (2000) soon. With the season just starting, the Bandits have a 2-1 record, losing their first game to the Philadelphia Wings.
NLL has a 30 second shot clock, imitating basketball. The shot clock starts over when a shot has hit the pipe of the goal. The ball cannot be off-sides. After every goal, the centers draw and it is usual to see centers only enter the game to draw and then leave right after. The crease which is the circle surrounding the goalie and the net, protects the goalie. NLL has a reputation of sick shots behind the back and scoring by jumping from behind the goal. This is possible in NLL because players are allowed in the crease without the ball. In womens lacrosse, field players are never in the crease-even if a goal is scored the players cannot enter the crease or the goal is taken away. Therefore, in NLL, the players are allowed to jump and shoot not having to worry about getting called.
The style of play in the MLL is physical, quick and intense. It is composed of four 15 minute quarters. There are no D-poles in MLL, only attack short sticks. The athletes are divided into attack and defense like hockey, but all players usually play both sides of the field. The games are played indoor arenas with turf like material as the floor. The difference is that it is not as thick and concrete under the turf. This allows for bounce passes to be a regular part of the game. Shift changes happen similar to hockey actually. No line plays for more than a minute unless there is a power play.
The Buffalo Bandits is a hometown favorite in the Western NY area. There are 23 men on the roster with 2 goalies. Evey bandit fan favors Steenhuis as well as Travares. It appears that Shawn Williams (Willy) is set to break a record of games played (2000) soon. With the season just starting, the Bandits have a 2-1 record, losing their first game to the Philadelphia Wings.