Thank You Chugger

Steve Dietrich has accepted the GM position with the Buffalo Bandits after serving as an assistant coach with the Toronto Rock for the past two seasons.

On Thursday, Buffalo Bandits Director of Lacrosse Operations Scott Loffler announced that the Bandits had Dietrich to serve as the team’s new general manager replacing Darris Kilgour who will continue as the team’s Head Coach.

“I’m very grateful to the Toronto Rock for the opportunity they gave me, and it’s quite an honor now to be able to work for the other of what are probably the two best franchises in the National Lacrosse League,” Dietrich said.

Dietrich played under Kilgour during his entire tenure with the Bandits from 2002 to 2007, including time spent playing alongside current Bandits assistant coaches Rich Kilgour and Dan Teat.

“I’m excited to return to Buffalo, a place that I called home for six years,” Dietrich said.

Rock Owner and President wished Dietrich the best via his twitter account @JDawick on Thursday.

“Congrats Chugger. Sad to see you go, you will be missed on many levels. Good luck in Banditland,hope you’re happy with 2nd place.#allthebest“

Dietrich played 18 seasons in the league, and is one of six current nominees for induction into the NLL Hall of Fame, with the Class of 2012 scheduled to be announced next week.  In his 18-year playing career, Dietrich compiled a record of 60-47 with Baltimore, Detroit, Rochester, Buffalo, Calgary, Edmonton and Toronto where he played his final two seasons.