Despite COVID-19 concerns, the Weyburn Lacrosse Association is working hard to grow the game. One of the biggest contributors to this success this winter has been Saskatchewan Rush’s Jeff Shattler coming to Weyburn on a regular basis to run camps and clinics, including clinics during the Easter break week.
The lacrosse athletes are getting one-on-one instruction from one of the best on planet, and the coaches are also gaining a wealth of knowledge to pass on to all who participate in lacrosse, widely touted as the fastest game on two feet.
The Weyburn organization has been able to continue lacrosse activities by abiding by the Saskatchewan Lacrosse Association’s COVID guidelines, including masking, social distancing and adapting drills to fall within the guidelines.
Recently, the SLA presented various awards and Weyburn received a significant number of them, including the President’s Award presented to the organization whose planning and development of the game exceeded all other organizations.
This was a direct result of community support, sponsors, parents and volunteers.
The Weyburn association will continue to rely on volunteers, even in this COVID environment, and to this end the Weyburn Lacrosse Association will host a coach-volunteer evening on Friday, April 9, at the All Sport Training Centre in Evanston Park, starting at 7:30 p.m.
They will be following COVID protocols, so anyone who would like to attend will need to register by contacting the Weyburn Lacrosse Association; Matt Dalton at president.weythrash@gmail.ca; Mick Samenook at coach.weythrash@gmail.ca; Mick Samenook by phone at 306-861-2224; or contact any board member or coach.
“It’s fun to be a part of the growth and development of these athletes to see the smiles and sense of accomplishment when they succeed,” said Samenook, noting the athletes can enjoy quality time with their friends as well as become more fit and healthier.
“Just getting out and running around helps reduce daily stresses without even knowing it,” added Samenook, pointing out some athletes may join with a view to making a provincial or national squad at some point, or perhaps to earn a university scholarship.
“We already have athletes in the program that have the potential to realize these lofty goals or reams. A few short years ago, we were literally teaching these kid how to ‘catch the ball’,” said Samenook.
The organization is looking forward to another season, but can only continue to be successful with continued support from volunteers and coaches.
“If you cannot make it on Friday but want to help out in some small way, contact one of the above,” said Samenook.
