Saskatchewan Rush coach and general manager selects son first overall in draft

For the first time in the history of the National Lacrosse League the coach and general manager of a team has selected his son first overall in an Entry Draft.

Derek Keenan, Saskatchewan Rush head coach and general manager, made the first pick Monday night in Toronto.

"Ryan started playing lacrosse when he was three years old," said Keenan. "I could have never imagined this happening."

His son was ecstatic.

"I'm still just trying to take it all in," said Ryan. "I'm just really excited to get going with the Rush."

Leading up to the selection Ryan Keenan was widely regarded as the strongest player in this year's draft. Last year he ended his collegiate career by anchoring Quinnipiac University to its first-ever win in the NCAA tournament.

Despite all the accolades, his dad wanted to make sure it was the right move for Ryan to be selected first.

"The only questions I had was the pressure," said Derek. "Not only being first overall draft but being the son of the coach and the general manager of the Saskatchewan Rush."

Ryan said his dad told him over the weekend he was going to pick him first overall. But the two didn't have a lot of conversation leading up to draft day.

"We tried to keep it to a minimum. He didn't want me to know too early what his decision was," said Ryan.

Emotional time for father and son

Two years ago Derek's wife Wendy died after a battle with cancer. He said it was hard for the entire family.

Derek said she was a great mom who was instrumental in guiding Ryan to where he is today.

"She was a big part of his development. Mainly his character," said Derek. "His education was important for her. It was emotional. We know for sure she's with us every day. I know she's looking down pretty proud right now."

When Derek finally broke the news to his son he was selecting him first overall, Ryan said he got very emotional.

"One of those unforgettable moments. It's been a long time coming," said Ryan. "And it's special with my mom passing a couple years ago. I know she's smiling here right now and watching this as my dad selected me."

Ryan will be staying in Hartford, Connecticut finishing up his Masters in Finance as he prepares for the upcoming season.

He said he's heard how crazy the fans in Saskatchewan are for their team.

"I've heard it's something pretty wild. I really can't wait for it."

And both father and son would love nothing more than to win a third consecutive championship, now on the same team.