The fastest game on two feet returns this weekend as the Sunshine Coast Rapids Lacrosse Association opens up its eighth season.
Both the midget and bantam teams have home and away games with the bantam team on the road Saturday in Burnaby and at home Sunday at 11 a.m. at the Gibsons and Area Community Centre against Delta. The midget team is in New Westminster on Saturday and plays host to Vancouver at 1 p.m. Sunday in Gibsons.
The association has seen a huge spike in its numbers this year seeing six teams, up from three last year, taking the floor.
There are two teams in tyke, one in mini tyke, two in novice and one in bantam and midget. The bantam and midget teams will play twice each weekend (one home and away game) until late June when playoffs and the championship tournaments will be held until mid-July.
The younger teams will play against each other in about three weeks after getting in some practice time and the association also plans to bring up teams from the Lower Mainland for a series of exhibition games.
"Last year was our break out year," said president and coach Jason Pratt. "We started exposing the hockey players to lacrosse and lots of them came out and brought their friends. We're now also trying to reach out to the soccer players on the Coast too and get them involved and interested in the game."
Pratt also credited the developmental program last year which saw players ages five to 12 come out and experience the game in a fun, non-competitive environment.
"For a bunch of kids who had never played lacrosse, they did very well and had a lot of fun," added Pratt. "For me personally, I want this season to be all about having fun, and skill development. I don't want winning to be the main focus. Practicing hard and having fun is the most important thing for these kids. Making sure you are working hard - that's how you win."
Pratt also credits the hard working, dedicated board members and volunteers for keeping the association going.
"What has really made the difference is the volunteer dedication," he said. "We have some volunteers who have been on the board for six or seven years and they still have the enthusiasm and the dedication. It's just fantastic."
Just a few days ago, five new coaches were trained, giving the association seven coaches this season. And although the volunteer support has been good, Pratt would love to see more people come forward to help out.
If you are interested in the association, email him at rapid [email protected].
