The lacrosse community has been buzzing this week following Shawn Evans’ big weekend announcement.
In case you missed it, the Peterborough native shared on Sunday that he has decided to retire from the National Lacrosse League after an illustrious 17-season career in the pros.
Evans said recent injuries coupled with the physical toll that the sport was taking on his body, especially as a smaller player, were big factors in his decision to hang it up and call it a career.
The two-time NLL MVP said the decision was one of the hardest ones he’s ever had to make but when it came down to it, he knew deep down that the time had come for him to step away and say goodbye.
Having achieved success at every level of the sport, Evans says that he felt there was nothing more to prove.
Winning championships, securing MVP titles, and reaching the upper echelons of success in the NLL, Evans leaves a lasting legacy on the league.
Of all his achievements in the league, one of the standout moments in his career was winning the championship with the Rochester Knighthawks in 2007, alongside his brother, Scott. Reflecting on those early years in the NLL, Evans spoke fondly of the camaraderie with his teammates and the invaluable lessons he learned from some of the greatest players in the history of the game.
Although Evans officially announced his retirement from the NLL, he still left the door slightly open for a potential return to summer lacrosse, leaving hope for fans that he may rejoin the Peterborough Lakers.
Looking beyond his playing days, Evans will continue to be involved in lacrosse, recently joining the coaching staff of the Swiss national lacrosse team. With an eye on the future, he expressed optimism about the Swiss team’s potential, even hinting at a goal to secure a spot in the 2028 Olympics.
In terms of legacy, Evans says he wants to be remembered as a hardworking player who loved the game, cherished his teammates and would do anything to help his team win.
While one of the greatest players the sport has ever seen might be hanging up his stick, the impact of Shawn Evans’ contributions to lacrosse will resonate with many generations for years to come.
(Written by: Scott Arnold)
