Goalie Craig Wende Returns to Swarm in Deal with Rochester

DULUTH, Ga. – The Georgia Swarm announced the acquisition of goalie Craig Wende from the Rochester Knighthawks in exchange for Georgia’s fourth-round pick in the 2022 NLL Entry Draft.

Wende returns to the Swarm after spending the shortened 2019-20 season with the Knighthawks. The netminder began his NLL career with the Swarm in 2018 after he was signed as a free agent. With Georgia, Wende played one game between the pipes making 12 saves. He played 17:54 minutes against the Philadelphia Wings producing a .706 save percentage.

“We are excited to bring Craig back to the Swarm following several seasons where he was able to get NLL playing time,” said Swarm Co-Owner and General Manager John Arlotta. “After losing Kevin Orleman in the expansion draft, Craig gives us a veteran presence to compete in training camp for the backup role to our starter, Mike Poulin. We know from Craig’s previous time with the Swarm that he is well liked in the locker room and is a great fit with the Swarm culture.”

During his time in Rochester, Wende started three games and logged 255:02 minutes while playing seven games in net throughout the pandemic-shortened season. The Kitchener, Ontario native made 194 saves throughout the season while stopping 77.6 percent of shots sent his way.

“Craig is a veteran who has gained valuable experience in the league, and we know he will come in ready to compete for the backup goalie role,” said Head Coach Ed Comeau.

The Swarm begin their 2021-22 campaign on Saturday, December 4 at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort Field at Gas South Arena.