by By Alec Schimke
(Oct. 25, 2016) – The Georgia Swarm has re-signed three-time champion Johnny Powless (Six Nations Mohawk) to a one-year contract.
Powless, 23, posted career-highs in points (72), goals (35), power play goals (13) and assists (37) during 18 games of action in 2016. During Georgia’s inaugural home opener on Jan. 9, the Six Nations, Ontario native scored a team-high four goals, which included the Swarm’s first-ever goal at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Field at Infinite Energy Arena. In the postseason, Powless recorded four points (2G, 2A) against New England in a narrow 14-13 overtime loss. Prior to his time with the Swarm, Powless spent the first three years of his career with Rochester from 2012-14 where he helped the Knighthawks win three Champion’s Cups in a row. After a short stint with Vancouver in 2015, Powless was traded to the Swarm where he has excelled in Georgia’s high-scoring offensive attack.
“Johnny took his game to another level last season, posting career numbers across the board,” Swarm Owner and General Manager John Arlotta said. “Since joining our organization, Johnny has helped solidify our left-side and has brought a championship attitude from his numerous titles at the young age of 23. We look forward to watching Johnny’s career continue to blossom both on and off the field in a Swarm uniform for many years to come.”
“Johnny was an integral part of our offense and our team last year,” Swarm head coach Ed Comeau said. “He was both a great finisher and feeder. His veteran leadership helped our first-year players learn what it takes to win. We are excited to have Johnny back and looking forward to building upon last year’s success.”
The Georgia Swarm opens the 2017 NLL Season at home on Saturday, Jan. 7 against the two-time defending champion Saskatchewan Rush at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Field at Infinite Energy Arena. Faceoff is set for 7:05 p.m.
