The National Lacrosse League today named Rochester Knighthawks defenseman Andrew Turner as the Defensive Player of the Year.

2004   Cam Woods
       San Jose Stealth
       Taylor Wray
       Calgary Roughnecks
2003   Jim Moss
       Albany Attack
2002   Pat Coyle
       Toronto Rock

Turner, one of Rochester's assistant captains, led a defense which held opponents to a league-low 179 goals allowed in 2005. The Knighthawks parlayed that back line performance into a 10-6 record and their eleventh straight postseason appearance.

Turner added 80 loose ball recoveries and proved his value in transition, tallying thirteen assists this season.

Sportsbook.com, an online bookmaker and casino, sponsored today's award, which was voted on by the league's governors, general managers and head coaches.

Tomorrow, the league will announce its selection as the Goaltender of the Year, with awards to follow each weekday until the Most Valuable Player is named on Thursday, 12 May.