From the University of Virginia straight to the National Lacrosse League, Rochester Knighthawks rookie forward Charlie Bertrand took his first season by storm. For his first year in the pros, Bertrand had a ton of bright moments that proved just how bright his future is. Let’s take a look back at Bertrand’s 2021-22 campaign.
FROM THE FIELD TO THE BOX
Coming into the 2021-22 campaign, Bertrand was new to the indoor game. However, you would’ve never known considering the offensive output the rookie put up in his first year in the NLL.
Bertrand admits there was a lot of learning on the fly.
“I think there was a lot of learning on the fly, and I think what I was able to do was use some of my strengths from the field game and bring them into box lacrosse where I could have a little bit more open space and be able to shoot from the outside. I think having those teammates and coaches in my ear about where to transition that game into indoor and be able to use those strengths as well, I think helped me a lot.”
Not bad for the three-time NCAA national champion out of the University of Virginia. Thanks to Bertrand’s prolific collegiate career, it helped propel him to a seamless transition into the pro game.
WATCH: CHARLIE BERTRAND YEAR-END INTERVIEW
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w-t70BNbZAE
FINDING HIMSELF AT THE TOP
Despite it being his first year in the league, Bertrand found himself near the top of the rookie scoring leaders.
In 17 games, Bertrand recorded 41 points on 13 goals and 28 assists. Along with Bertrand’s 41 points ranking seventh in the league among rookie scorers, his two shorthanded markers were tied for first among first-year players by the season’s end.
Additionally, Bertrand ended the year with goals in six of his last nine appearances while recording at least one point in all but one game on the year.
Rochester Knighthawks v Buffalo Bandits :: 12.11.21 :: Photo By Micheline V
PLAYING ALONGSIDE SMITH
Both Bertrand and Knighthawks rookie forward Ryan Smith finished among the top NLL rookie point-getters, combining for 100 points between the two.
“It was awesome,” Bertrand commented when asked what it was like to play alongside Smith this season. “I mean, just the first weekend, I got to know him pretty well and he’s a phenomenal player.”
With both Bertrand and Smith being new to the indoor game, they took their first NLL seasons by storm. Bertrand feels having young players like himself and Smith contributing along with the veterans on the Knighthawks roster is a recipe for future success.
“Having young guys like that, that are contributing, I think keeps it very light and keeps it fun and energetic for sure. Especially when you have veterans that can come in and tell you when you need to step back or when you need to go a little bit forward and push the pace.”
