In a surprise move, the Minnesota Swarm announced today that head coach Mike Lines has been replaced by Associate GM Joe Sullivan, effective immediately. No reason for the move was immediately given.
John Arlotta, co-owner of the Swarm to MNSwarm.com:
"Mike is a great offensive mind, and was a big reason for the success that we've had in that area over the last few years. I fully expect that he will be coaching again in the NLL in the near future and I want to thank him for his contributions to the Swarm and wish him all the best."
The move comes as a bit of a surprise, as the Swarm have had a much better start to the season than was thought by most of the experts on the league. The offense has struggled as of late, but the defense had proven itself to be a force. Lines had the team at 3-3, something few would have predicted coming into the season.
As for Joe Sullivan, he adds the bench duties to his associate GM duties. Arlotta had this to say about Sullivan:
"Joe is a great fit for our team as he is a very steady hand who can help our young players get through the highs and lows of a National Lacrosse League season. He has also demonstrated in his roles as associate general manager and defensive coach that he has the organizational and management skills to be a head coach in this league."
Both assistant coaches maintain their positions with the team.
More on the coaching move as we have it.