Rochester’s professional lacrosse franchise is entering a new chapter. The Seneca Nation, through its business arm Seneca Holdings, LLC, has officially purchased the Rochester Knighthawks, securing the team’s future in a city where the roots of the sport run deep.
“This announcement is rooted in tradition and history and fueled by passion and excitement,” said Seneca Nation President J. Conrad Seneca. “Lacrosse is part of our culture and Rochester is part of our ancestral home. Our ancestors were the first people to share the game of lacrosse with the world… The Seneca Nation is thrilled to celebrate our connection to the Creator’s Game and to this community by keeping the Knighthawks in Rochester.”
The Seneca Nation — the largest nation of the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois Confederacy) — has lived in western New York for generations and is one of the region’s largest economic drivers, generating nearly $2 billion in annual economic impact and employing thousands.
The Knighthawks are coming off their best modern-era season, tying a franchise record with 10 wins and earning a third straight playoff berth. Star forward Connor Fields was named the National Lacrosse League’s Most Valuable Player — the first in team history.
The acquisition keeps the NLL’s second-longest continuous market in place. The league welcomed more than a million fans for the third straight season and includes 14 teams across the U.S. and Canada.
NLL Commissioner Brett Frood called the deal “a deeply meaningful homecoming for the Creator’s Game,” praising the Seneca Nation’s cultural heritage and commitment to community.
Rochester’s pro lacrosse history stretches back to the 1930s with teams like the Rochester Iroquois, Chiefs, Griffins, and Greywolves. The original Knighthawks became one of the most successful franchises in NLL history, winning five championships — including three in a row from 2012 to 2014 — before relocating in 2019. The current Knighthawks launched that same year and have spent five seasons in the league.
General Manager Dan Carey will stay on, taking on the expanded role of president and GM.
“The roots of lacrosse run deep in Rochester,” Carey said. “Thanks to the Seneca Nation for stepping up to save the franchise; the team now has a bright future ahead.”
The Knighthawks will begin their 31st season in the NLL this fall under Seneca Nation ownership.
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