(Rochester, NY)… The Rochester Knighthawks announced today that alternate captain Ryland Rees has been the recipient of the team’s Community Service Award, which honors the player who has dedicated himself to serving and giving back to the Rochester community. It marks the second time in his career that Rees has received the honor.
“Ryland is an incredible ambassador for our team and the sport within the Rochester community,” said Knighthawks Sr. Director of Operations and Communications Craig Rybczynski. “The recognition is well deserved, reflecting the countless hours he has spent teaching the game of lacrosse and serving as an advocate for local charities.”
This year, the 28-year-old visited dozens of schools, lacrosse practices, and charity events, and was instrumental in promoting lacrosse at the youth level. Rees and his teammates took over gym classes and taught lacrosse skills to kids at schools in Brockport, Canandaigua, Fairport, Rochester, Penfield, Pittsford, and Webster.
Rees also coordinated and participated in youth practices with teams from Churchville, Hilton, Spencerport, Victor, and Webster. The Knighthawks transition man worked alongside teammates Connor Fields, Matt Gilray, Chad Tutton, and Ryan Smith at a sold-out lacrosse clinic at the Dick’s House of Sport on April 12.
“I am grateful to receive the community service award. We have amazing fans who come and support us every season,” said Rees. “Being able to give back and be a part of the Rochester Community has been special. Whether that be our School Program, guest practice appearances, a tour of the Monroe County Jail, or playing bingo with some amazing kids at Golisano’s Children’s Hospital. We would not be the Rochester Knighthawks without our fans and our community. Thank you for all your support this season. Let’s go, Hawks!”
The Port Coquitlam, BC, native has fully immersed himself in the community after becoming the first-ever pick of the Rochester Knighthawks’ new franchise in 2019. Rees was named the team’s defensive MVP in each of the following three seasons. He was named the Community Service Award winner following the 2023-24 season.
He is currently second in Knighthawks franchise history in games played. Rees also ranks third in the franchise all-time for loose-ball recoveries (455), and second in caused turnovers (83), and fourth in blocked shots (46).
The Knighthawks will announce the remaining award winners each Wednesday. The Teammate of the Year will be revealed on Wednesday, May 6. The Knighthawks will also name their Offensive (May 13) and Defensive MVPs (May 20) in the coming weeks.

