SportsXpress Oshawa July/Aug 2014

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Lady Blue Knights Celebrate 15 Years


ATHLETIC DEVELOPMENT CENTRE OUR MISSION: Build the Complete Athlete through Training, Nutrition & Recovery

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Sports Connection

July/August 2014 Oshawa / Whitby Clarington Region Edition

12 PHOTO OF THE MONTH teamprofiles

Profiling community sports in words and photographs. 06 | 08 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 16 | 25 | 26 | 27 |

Whitby Lions Oshawa Hawkeyes Whitby Girls Hockey Association Whitby Girls Softball Association Whitby Curling Club Ishi Gogyou Diamondbacks Lady Blue Knights Field Lacrosse Durham Attack Volleball Baseball Oshawa Oshawa Vikings RFC

health&fitness

Informative articles on sports health & fitness. 20 | Everything on the Grill 28 | Thinking Inside and Outside the Box

behindthebench

Tips, tactics and ideas are shared by athletes, coaches and fans.

24 | Balancing Act

Front cover photo credit: Aimee Haynes

specialfeatures 05 | 17 | 30 |

Elite Athletes of the Month Local Lacrossee Legends: Carolyn Toll Taunton Orthodontics Team of the Month

sports@school

Highlighting all school sports and athletes.

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22 | Durham College Lords 23 | UOIT Ridgebacks

sportsfiles

Entertaining, informative and engaging articles on local athletes, sports and teams. 09 | Durham College Sports Camps 18 | Erin Abbott Excelling in the NCAA

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Sports Connection

Oshawa • Whitby • Clarington

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July/August 2014 PUBLISHERS Dallas Knowles Dallask@OshawaSportsXpress.ca 416.843.3801 Amy Knowles Amyk@SportsXpress.ca 416.560.5700 EDITOR Dallas Knowles GRAPHIC DESIGN Wendy Ferris Kelly Martin CONTRIBUTORS Oshawa Hawkeyes, Ken Babcock, Diane Sokoloski, Lady Blue Knights, Mary Giacalone, Jeff Roux, various sports enthusiasts, and the SportsXpress team

PHOTOGRAPHERS Various sports enthusiasts PARTNERSHIP Ajax/Pickering EDITIONS Brampton

Chatham/Kent Hamilton Kingston London Niagara Ottawa Sarnia-Lambton Waterloo Region Winnipeg

Call your own shots! Be a part of the SportsXpress Team! SportsXpress is a grassroots media provider dedicated to the community sports lifestyle. We’re all about the athletes, coaches, their families and fans. We publish real life stories and include all ages and skills.

FRANCHISE INQUIRY

Contact SportsXpress at: 1-877-588-8856 or email sales: Sales@SportsXpress.ca

NATIONAL AND Amy Knowles REGIONAL SALES AmyK@SportsXpress.ca PRESIDENT/CEO Walter Browning walter@sportsxpress.ca

VP OPERATIONS Clint Szakacs clint@sportsxpress.ca

Since 2008, we’ve grown to over 20 community publications across Canada. We are looking for sports-minded entrepreneurs to build new publications throughout the country.

CORPORATE MANAGER OF MARKETING Kelly Martin KellyM@SportsXpress.ca

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Join our Growing Team! Contact SportsXpress at: 1.877.588.8856 or email Sales@SportsXpress.ca Or visit www.sportsxpress.ca for more information

Editorial Contributions: Submissions are welcome from writers, photographers, athletes, coaches and individuals. Please contact the publisher. We assume no responsibility for unsolicited material. Contributors are responsible for obtaining all approvals for publication of photos and content prior to submission. All submissions may not be used. We may edit, publish, reproduce, distribute and archive submissions in any form or medium without any compensation. We are not responsible for lost or damaged submissions. Contents copyrighted. All rights reserved. Reproduction or transmission of any article, photograph or artwork in any form or by any means without permission from the publisher is prohibited. SportsXpress is published six times per year. Sports Express Media Inc. is committed to protecting your privacy as our customer. We may collect personal information only if it is required for the proper functioning of our business and only share this information with our business partners. The editors and contributors who write for Sports Express Media Inc. attempt to provide accurate and useful information and commentary. However the editors, contributors and Sports Express Media Inc. cannot and do not guarantee the accuracy of this information. We assume no responsibility for any actions or decisions taken by any readers based on the information provided.

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Coaching • Administration • Technology

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Belleville/Quinte Brant County Guelph Halton Region Lloydminster Mississauga Oshawa-Whitby Peterborough Swift Current Windsor

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ELITE ATHLETES OF THE MONTH Name: Kaylin Morissette – Lacrosse School: University of Louisville Cardinals – Exercise Science Team/Position: University of Louisville NCAA DI Women’s Lacrosse Team Career Achievements: Second team All-American 2014 – Women’s Lacrosse 2013 Women’s Lacrosse World Cup – Canada – Silver Medalist 2011 U-19 Women’s Lacrosse World Cup – Canada – Bronze Medalist Future Goal: Compete in the 2017 Women’s Lacrosse World Cup in England

Kaylin Morissette LACROSSE Name: Mike Lum-Walker — Lacrosse School: Brock University / Goodman School of Business Team/Position: NLL Toronto Rock/ MSL Oakville Rock - Defense

Mike Lum-Walter LACROSSE

Career Goals & Achievements: Win a Championship with the Toronto Rock Drafted 20th Overall by Toronto Rock 2011 OLA Jr Whitby Warriors Minto Cup Championship In the Process of becoming a Police Officer Ultimately balance Professional Lacrosse & Police Force Years Down the Road become a part of the Emergency Task Force

Fundamentals to Train Like an Elite Athlete Proper Strength & Conditioning Complete Nutrition Programs Combine Testing Preparation On Ice Conditioning @teamets

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Call 905-430-4349 or visit our website www.fitzgeraldets.com

@TeamETS Elite Training Systems Whitby

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teamprofiles www.whitbylionsfootball.ca

Whitby Lions Wrap Up Biggest Season Yet The Whitby Lions Football Club recently completed their 2014 Spring season. The latest campaign marked significant growth for the youth flag football organization, with more teams and players participating at all age groups. Now in its second full year of operation, the only youth flag football organization in Durham Region has become a top choice for young people looking to play a fast-paced game that rewards speed, agility and teamwork.

Spring 2014 Season Recap The Spring 2014 installment featured 12 teams across the junior and senior divisions, made up of boys and girls between the ages of five and fifteen. The season kicked off indoors at the Oshawa Civic Fieldhouse with its annual ‘combine’ – a day where players worked through a number of skill development stations and learned the fundamentals of snapping, passing, receiving, route running defending and flag pulling. The club remained on

the turf for the first two games before moving outdoors in mid-May to Jeffrey St Park in Whitby. The weather was fantastic all season, and the parents and fans certainly cheering on their young football heroes under the blue skies and sunshine after a long winter. The skill level increased week by week, and the exciting season culminated with Championship Day on June 22nd. Players were rewarded for their hard work with awards and treats. Kim Samuels, Club president, summed it up: “This was a fun and exciting season and our biggest yet. We hit maximum registration in both divisions, and have a host of dedicated coaches and volunteers wanting to get involved in the sport. The Lions are poised for even bigger and better things to come!”

About the Whitby Lions The Lions promote maximum participation, which means that coaches work hard to ensure all players experience some level of success throughout the season. Players are rotated through various positions on both the offensive and defensive side of the ball, and all players receive equal playing time. The Lions’ approach to football makes it appealing to both seasoned players as well as beginners. Everyone involved with the Whitby Lions Football Club, from our Board of Directors to volunteers and coaches, have a passion for the game of football. The Club is committed to providing the youth of Durham Region with a top notch football experience. For further information about football programs offered by the Whitby Lions, check out www.whitbylionsfootball.ca or contact info@whitbylionsfootball.ca

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Did You Know? Flag football is played around the world by players of all ages. The sport is popular not only in Canada and the United States, but in Mexico, Europe and Asia as well. Played recreationally across the country, competition can also get very serious. In Canada, there are many flag football clubs and numerous championship tournaments held at regional, provincial and national levels. There is even a world championship held every two years, with the 2014 International Flag Football World Championship held in Jerusalem from June 25-27.

Current Player? Former Player? Want to Give Back? Getting involved in youth flag football is a great way for current high school / college players to further develop their leadership and communication skills while staying close to the game they love. The Whitby Lions Football Club provides opportunities for young people to volunteer their time as officials and coaches, allowing them to share their passion and knowledge about football with younger players.



teamprofiles

ACCEPTING NEW PLAYERS. FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.HAWKEYES.CA

Oshawa Hawkeyes Celebrating 55 Years in the Community Submitted by the Oshawa Hawkeyes

The Hawkeyes were the brainchild of Ted Morris, the then Chief Canadian Scout for the Toronto Argonauts. Mr. Morris walked into the office General Motors Canada President E.H. Walker and discussed his idea of a Junior Football Club in Oshawa. Mr. Walker took the idea and ran with it. The Oshawa Imps (the original name of the club and nicknamed after the new General Motors vehicle the Impala) were ready to play their first season in 1959 in the Ontario Football Conference (formerly known as the Junior Big Football League). One of those players was Mr. Ed Aru who was recently inducted into the Oshawa Sports Hall of Fame. Mr. Walker along with several other high powered businessmen in the area served as our first Executive. Harry

Gay, Graham Coulter, Arn Greene, Murray Maidlow, Tony McIlveen, Dr. Leo Krantz, Faye Brooks, Vern Walker and Dyson Brooks sat on the Board and it did not take them long to realize what an name the “Imps� was. In 1961 the Club took on its current name the Oshawa Hawkeyes Junior Football Club and

has remained the double blue and white team colors of the Argonauts. In 1980, Gord Carey and Ian Bunting our Club Executive along with the support of the Oshawa Royal Canadian Legion Branch 43 formed the Hawkeye Legionaires minor system. A Peewee team was entered in the Scarborough Boys Football League. The following year Atom and Bantams teams were created. In 1987 a Midget team and finally in 1991 Tykes had rosters entered into the league. We now offer teams in the Ontario Minor Football League, Ontario Varsity Football League (both Spring and Fall) and our house league programs. It is now possible to play for the Hawkeyes from the ages of 7-19. We have had several successful years in all divisions over the years. Our executive, coaching staff and dedicated volunteers continue to help make our program what is now and continue to help it grow. We are very proud to be a part of the community. We invite you to come and check out our Club and become a part of the Hawkeye family. For more information you can find us at www. hawkeyes.ca.

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sportsfiles

Sports Camp Opportunities for Your Child

By Ken Babcock, Director of Athletics & Recreation, Durham College & UOIT

If you are looking for a great way for your child to spend some time this summer, you need to look no further than the award-winning Durham College (DC) Summer Sports Camp program. Geared primarily towards children (ages 7 to 12), the program offers an array of weeklong sports camps and some programs for ages 13 to 17 as well. Just choose your sport and your week(s)! Launched in 1987, the DC program is the longest-running summer sports camp program in Durham Region. It began that year with basketball but, over the years, many more sports have been added so you now can choose from nine different sports camps: basketball, volleyball, badminton, soccer, baseball, softball, tennis, the popular multi-sport camp and, our newest addition, floorball. Our focus continues to be on providing an enjoyable and memorable learning

sports experience while keeping the program affordable for all. The registration fee for the camps has not changed in more than a decade, yet we still offer the same first-class camp experience!

a wonderful campus Durham College and UOIT is during their week with us. While our facilities are impressive, it is the quality of our camp staff that makes our program exceptional. Our experienced (and certified) coaches ensure every week is full of learning, skill development and, of course, fun. Our staff also includes senior members of Durham College varsity teams who add a great deal of enthusiasm. Over the last 25 years, our program has been named Best in Durham Region by Parent Magazine on multiple occasions.

One of the terrific things about our camps is the state-of-the-art facilities we use. The 100,000 square foot Campus Recreation & Wellness Centre (CRWC) is home to the indoor sport camps and features the best equipment and gymnasium space you’ll find anywhere in Ontario. Unlike other sports camps offered in the community, the CRWC is fully air-conditioned — a tremendous bonus and comfort during hot weather. Our outdoor facilities are also some of the best in the province and include Vaso’s Field (soccer camp), DC Field (baseball/softball) and the air-conditioned Campus Tennis Centre. Campers will also experience what

If you’d like your child to learn new skills, make new friends, gain selfconfidence and, most of all, have fun, then one of our camps is the place to be between July 8 and the third week of August. (Lunch plans are also available.) For more information visit www.campusrecreationcentre.com.

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teamprofiles WHITBY GIRLS HOCKEY ASSOCIATION wgha.org

Exciting 2013-14 Season Finale with the WGHA By Diane Sokoloski

eight made it through to the Championship Weekend: Gold (Bantam A1), 2 Silver (Atom AA, Peewee B) and 2 Bronze (Bantam BB, Intermediate A) Provincial Women’s Hockey League Int. AA team (Jr. Wolves) finished in 4th place overall in the regular season standings, Back to Back winners of the Alumni Cup, 2nd time winning the PWHL championship Ontario Women’s Hockey Association 18 of 21 teams participated in the Championship Weekend (last year 14), 3 Bronze (Bantam A1, Midget AA1, Intermediate A), 1 Silver (Peewee BB), 1 Gold (Bantam BB)

Whitby Wolves Bantam BB 2014 Provincial Champions

F

or the fourth year in a row the WGHA House Bantam. The DS program is now a permanent League program continued its relationship part of the WGHA and next season there will with three time Olympic Gold Medalist, be teams in every division from Novice/Tyke Jennifer Botterill and added through to Midget. “Nothing beats a great ambassador of After five years as Director of women’s hockey to the watching these girls HL for the junior divisions of program - Hockey Hall of Tyke, Novice and Atom, Russ accomplish more Famer and three time Olympic stepped down, but than they thought Winters medalist Vicky Sunohara. fortunately he has signed up possible” Jason Hunt, 2nd VP/House to be the Novice A coach for League Director says, “They the 2014-15 season. Everyone are favourites among the young Wolves and is anticipating another year of great House make time for pictures, signing jerseys and League hockey in the WGHA. showing their Olympic Gold Medals. They Dave Martin 1st VP, GM Hockey Operations also give an impressive on-ice display which presented a summary of another successful is inspiring for our young players and hockey rep season. parents who get to watch some true Canadian In total the organization iced 21 rep teams and hockey heros at work,” he says. five DS teams: In the third successful season of Development Stream (DS) hockey, the WGHA put DS teams Lower Lakes Female Hockey League on the ice in Teddy Bear, Atom, Peewee and 20 teams represented Whitby in the LLFHL and

Former Toronto Marlie (1984-86) turned coach, Scott Payne, speaks proudly of his Bantam BB team, (including daughter Emily) who won a gold medal at the provincials. “Our girls never quit. It was an incredible experience. Nothing beats watching these girls accomplish more than they thought possible,” says Payne. Payne’s advice: “Never quit playing. Once minor hockey ends there is no reason to stop playing. Girls’ hockey has grown in leaps and bounds. Women’s leagues are next.” Gary Soper, and his Junior Wolves won the league championship for the second consecutive year, an honour shared only with the Toronto Aeros. “We went into the season with a lot of optimism. We had eight returning players from our previous championship (2012-13) season so that helped. Our eight new players, ended up exceeded everyone’s expectations. They had to learn how to win and play in pressure games. Those girls have that experience now,” says Soper. Have a happy summer and don’t forget to work on your core!



teamprofiles

Our First Community Event On May 24, 2014 the Whitby Girls Softball Association held our first community event of the season, our annual Skills Day and Photo Day. This is always a fun event and is looked forward to by many of our members. This year the weather co-operated and shone down on us all day long. Skills Day is a chance for the players from our Learn to Play (LTP) division up to our Squirt division (ages 5 through 12) to see how far they can throw and hit and how fast they can run the bases. These results are scrupulously tabulated by volunteers and winners are determined by combining all of these results. Speaking of volunteers… This day could not happen if it were not for the hard work, all volunteer, from so many people. It all starts with Paul Tobin, the WGSA Board member responsible for planning and implementing this event. Many other Board members also show up to help run the events, man the food table and usher people

through the team photos. Let us not forget those WGSA players from older divisions who help run down balls, measure hits and throws and generally be enthusiastic cheerleaders to make the day even more fun for the young players. Of course, all of this work would be moot were it not for the dedication of the coaches, who lead their teams through the centres, and the players themselves. This is always an important day for WGSA because it affords the girls the opportunity to bond with their teams, something they take with them throughout the whole season.

Congratulations to the following 2014 Skills Day Winners Top Teams LTP:

McDonald’s Small Fries Red

ALTP: McDonald’s Smurfs Mite: Dr. Schmitz and Dr. Sujo, Associates in Optometry Squirt: Roy’s Enterprise/Whitby Trophy House Top Individuals LTP: Alexis Tranter, Juliana Gouthro ALTP: Erin Hull, Julia Bou-chamoun, Hadley Currie, Sienna Suppa, Hannah Clark Mite: Madison Mattar, Kiera Penny, Emily Thornton, Ami Dallaway, Grace Gardiner Squirt: Abby Suffel, Taylor Hagen, Emily Jones, Jessica Kouleas, Rebecca Ferguson

Check our website for more information

www.whitbygirlssoftball.com 12

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What’s your game this summer?


teamprofiles

“There is something for everyone...”

Take the Summer to Think About Curling in the Winter

out and try the sport of curling! The Whitby Curling Club offers options for people ages 8 and up, e novice to experienced player. It is a great social and team sport where you can join as an individual le.

ing for everyone….

Submitted by the Whitby Curling Club

er free curling instruction to anyone who is interested in learning the sport. Even though the sun is shining, it is a good time

st to join. huge in equipment. Inside activity that is not dependant on the weather. to start No planning forinvestment your winter activities. The Whitby Curling Club offers options for people ages 8

s welcome members. Our leagues and up, new from the novice to experienced player.are: It is

:

a great social and team sport where you can join as an individual or couple.

Something for everyone. —Afternoons or evenings We offer free curling instruction to anyone who is Low cost to join.

—Mornings orinevenings interested learning the sport.

Fees are pro-rated if you join during the season.

—Friday afternoon or Wednesday and Friday evenings No huge investment in equipment. Inside activity that is not dependent on the weather. Leagues welcome

—New the sport—Sunday newtomembers. Our leagues are: evenings

:

Adults Ladies—Afternoons or evenings Men’s—Mornings or evenings

What’s Rocks/Bantam/Juniors—ages 8 to 19—Sunday afternoons Mixed—Friday afternoon or Wednesday and Friday evenings Novice—New to the sport—Sunday evenings

Youths Little Rocks/Bantam/Juniors—ages 8 to 19— Sunday afternoons

s coming up at our club?

coming up at our club?

Summertime rentals available: Have an event and wondering where to hold it? Give our club a try! We offer the large open arena area, main floor with bar and dance floor, and the 2nd floor dining room for your event needs.

Curling Registration will open soon. Call the club for more details. Contact the club for further information on any of these events

Whitby Curling Club 815 Brock St. N., Whitby, ON L1N4J3 E-Mail: whitbycc@sympatico.ca Phone: 905-668-0521

www.whitbycurlingclub.com

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DURHAM PREMIER JIU JITSU Respect the training Honour the commitment Cherish the results

Team IGMA DIAMONDBACKS have proven that success is about doing the right thing at the right moment

Join a consistently winning TEAM Kids and Adult Divisions • 2013 Bronze Medalist 140 points at OJA Provincials • 2014 Ascension BJJ Open 3rd place 92 points team winners • 2014 Niagara BJJ Open 2nd place 97 points team winners • 2014 Ontario Open International championship 4th place 103 points team winners

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First 20 Member No HST Free Uniform Free Team Tee Shirt Unlimited Classes Strength and Conditioning Classes Wrestling classes ( Coach Dan Chatres Team Impact)

CALL FO R DETAILS

Call us at: 905-441-2256

www.ishigogyoudojo.com


E G E NE RA

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H O C K E Y CA M P 2014

AUGUST 18TH-22ND, 2014 WWW.OSHAWAGENERALS.COM/FUTUREGENERALS FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: Andrew Edwards 905-433-0900 ext. 2232 aedwards@oshawagenerals.com

KIDS AGED 6 TO 13

OSHAWA GENERALS

CELEBRITY GOLF CLASSIC 10:00 A.M. Shotgun Start Wyndance Golf Club WWW.OSHAWAGENERALS.COM/CELEBRITYGOLFCLASSIC


teamprofiles

LADY BLUE KNIGHTS FIELD LACROSSE

Celebrating 15 Years

Submitted by the Lady Blue Knights

The Lady Blue Knights Field Lacrosse organization started in the Year 2000, with 60 girls playing Under 15 house league, and has continued to grow at a rapid pace over the past 15 years. The league has attracted girls from all over Durham Region and now has over 300 girls in our House League program made up of Baby Blue Knights (5, 6 and 7 year olds), Jr. Blue Knights (8, 9 and 10 year olds), U15 and Open age. This house league program is a great way to develop the fundamentals and play recreationally. The Lady Blue Knights have 9 Rep teams - U11, U13 Elite, U13 Competitive, U15 Elite, U15 Competitive, U19 Elite, U19 Competitive 1 & 2, and Senior, competing in the Ontario Women’s Field Lacrosse League. The development at the grass roots level in our House League programs has been the driving force behind the rapid progression of the Lady Blue Knights becoming one of the strongest Rep programs in the Province. Lady Blue Knights have the highest women’s field lacrosse registration in the Province with 470 plus members.

Our Rep teams have won 32 Provincial Championships, including the 2004, 2006, 2008 and 2012 Ontario Summer Games Championships. Our programs have taken pure beginners and developed them into athletes who now compete at higher levels such as NCCA College lacrosse, National Teams and Canadian Universities. During our 15 years, we have had 14 players play Team Canada. We have 34 girls who are either playing NCAA lacrosse, have played or have signed to go and will be starting soon. See the featured players section on our website -www. ladyblueknights.ca Creating opportunities for young female athletes is the focus of our organization. Our organization strives to provide a fun, family like atmosphere where athletes can develop their skills and meet new friends, while taking advantage of the endless opportunities that women’s field lacrosse provides for the female athlete. We are so proud of our LBK athletes. They represent our organization with class and many have become great role models for our young Lady Blue Knights to aspire to. All athletes can learn to play field lacrosse and play it well. Join Lady Blue Knights and

2009 U15 Elite Team: 7 – Nicole Martindale (Freshman –University of Denver); 9 – Tristen Hanke (Freshman – Seton Hill University); 8 – Claire Waterson (Freshman – Western University); 12 – Jessica Lemcke (Freshman – Davenport University)

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First year for Baby Blue Knights 2006 U19 player Janaye Dzikewich providing instruction. Janaye has since played Team Canada, and graduated from the University of Louisville

let us help you reach your athletic dreams! DREAM BIG!! We do! Can only imagine all the great times ahead for the continued growth and success of the Lady Blue Knights.

The Lady Blue Knights annual summer camp runs July 21 – 25, 2014 For more information and to sign up please visit our website


Local Legends By Dallas Knowles

Carolyn Toll: Local Lacrosse Legend action - to teach them different game concepts,” said Carolyn.

Lady Blue Knights’ coach Carolyn Toll was introduced to lacrosse by another Local Legend Barb Boyes. Toll was a grade ten student at Donevan Collegiate when she attended a lacrosse jamboree hosted by Boyes who was teaching and coaching at Ajax High School. She received camper recognition and has been hooked on the game ever since. After finishing high school Carolyn would go on to play for Team Ontario at the National Championships and for Team Canada at the 2001 World Cup. “My fondest memories as a player were scoring the tying goal in the 1992 National Championship versus British Columbia to send the game into overtime and stepping onto the field at the 2001 World Cup in High Wycombe, England, with my Canadian Team jersey on, ready to take on the best female lacrosse players in the world,” said Carolyn. Toll received some excellent coaching as a player that helped to shape her game and ultimately influenced her to get into coaching later on. After the high school clinic Boyes transferred to Dovenvan and coached Toll in her grade twelve year and later with Team Ontario. “Barb taught me the value of training and helped nurture my competitive spirit. Barb was the coach that brought the game to me and instilled her passion for the game in me,” said Toll. She was also greatly influenced by her coach at the 2001 World Cup Tracey Coyne. “She taught me the fine points of the game, and helped me answer the ‘why’ questions. I have taken her coaching approach - asking players why they chose a certain course of

Carolyn transitioned into coaching after the 2001 World Cup when she joined the staff for the 2003 U19 World Cup. During her playing career she played with people from all aspects of life, all with varying abilities and learned to appreciate them for what they brought to the table. More importantly, she learned how to lead different types of athletes in a positive direction, which is something she does every time she steps on the field as a coach. “One of the biggest challenges transitioning from player to coach was learning that while you have all the influence in a practice setting, you cannot dictate success in games - it has to come from the players themselves. No matter how much you want it, they have to possess that same quality to be successful. You just have to hope that all players have the same heart as you do,” said Toll. In addition to coaching at the national level and being involved in every World Cup since 2001, Carolyn has also been one of the driving forces behind the Lady Blue Knights organization. “I spent a lot of time watching Dyson Williams (son of Shawn & Tamara Williams) play box lacrosse when he was a Paperweight. My daughter was 2 years younger and I starting thinking of ways to take the great box game and tailor it to the field for young girls. I approached Barb and she encouraged me to bring the ideas to life through the Lady Blue Knights organization. I am so glad we carried through with the concept because so many young girls are getting amazing opportunities through the program,” said Toll. With coaches like Carolyn Toll, it is easy to see why the Lady Blue Knights has been such a successful organization. Whether it is coaching with the Blue Knights or watching her daughter Olivia and son Zack play it is clear that Carolyn Toll will continue to make a positive impact in the game of lacrosse.

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sportfiles

Erin Abbott Excelling in the NCAA Whitby resident Erin Abbott has amassed an impressive list of accomplishments in lacrosse in a relatively short period of time. Considering she did not pursue lacrosse seriously until grade eight Erin was able to earn a full scholarship and is now thriving in the NCAA. Abbott just completed her sophomore season at Lindenwood University, in St. Charles Missouri, where she was named to the first team allconference and the all-academic team in the RMAC Conference. Like so many other elite female lacrosse players from Durham Region Abbott learned the game through the Lady Blue Knights Lacrosse Association. While playing for the Blue Knights she won four provincial U19 Elite Provincial Championships in 2009, 2010, 2011, and 2012, and also had the chance to play with so many other great local players who have also gone on to

earn scholarships. “I made great friends that I still get excited to see. I loved being able to play with very talented players that were able to make me a better player. I also loved watching my best friends earn scholarships through their hard work. It was an amazing experience earning one myself, but even more rewarding seeing my teammates around me travel away to the states and play lacrosse at a higher and more competitive level,” said Abbott. Erin was initially nervous about moving to the U.S. to attend school but after visiting Lindenwood during her grade twelve year she immediately felt at home. “As soon as I arrived I was greeted by my coaches, Jack and Brian. They were very welcoming and made me feel at ease. Even though they were amazing, they did not need to sell me the school at all. As soon as I stepped onto the Lindenwoods campus, I knew it was for me,” said Erin. Lindenwood University, which is located less than 40 kilometers from St. Louis, is home to one of the best athletic stadiums in Division II NCAA athletics with a state-

of-the-art locker room and training facility. The beautiful campus and quality athletic program has given Erin a sense of comfort and helped her to adjust to the hectic life of an NCAA student-athlete. “We spend a lot of time away from class and are forced to study and take online tests in hotels and on busses. The professors at Lindenwood are very understanding and work well with the student athletes. We also have a great athlete-academic center where we

Erin and her teammates celebrating

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Erin and her teammates arriving home from their quarter-final win on a private jet

are required to do study hall hours,” said Abbott. One of the biggest adjustments for Erin has been the amount of travel that the team does over the course of the year. Being in the mid-west Lindenwood has to endure long bus rides averaging 14 hours per trip. Last season the team travelled over 10,000 miles and slept in hotel rooms for 17 nights. For Erin and the rest of her teammates the long trips were a way to see the country and bond as a team. “Lacrosse trips are not only about lacrosse, it is important that we get a win on the road, but trips are about getting to know your teammates and seeing things that you will never be able otherwise. This year alone we experienced Colorado’s Red Rocks, Universal Studios, Chicago’s famous bean, and many other surprise stops on the road,” said Erin. Despite the extensive travel the team has had enormous success since Erin’s arrival two years ago. During that time the team has gone 30-6 making it to the NCAA tournament semi-finals this year. One of Erin’s fondest memories from this past

Erin fighting for a loose ball

Moving into her junior season Abbott will be looked upon to play more of a leadership role with the goal of winning the NCAA tournament. “I could not be more excited about next season, we have some incredible recruits coming in. Every year we develop and become a stronger program,” said Erin, “We have a lot of great leadership personalities and it will be nice to work together with the upperclassmen in order to push our team to the next level. I hope to encourage the incoming players as well as the teammates that have been by my side over the past two years.”

season was the team’s huge tournament quarter-final victory over Limestone. Not only was this a huge win for Lindenwood, the team also got to travel to the game in style via a private jet along with a flight attendant and catered meal.

“As soon as I stepped on the Lindenwoods campus campus I knew it was for me.”

After she earns her degree and her collegiate playing career is complete she hasn’t ruled out coaching or travelling to Europe but for now she is focused on winning a National Championship with Lindenwood. Wherever lacrosse takes Erin Abbott in the future she is sure to find success.

Abbott was a defender in her rookie season starting 16 out of 17 games. She was also chosen for the Synapse Sports National All-Rookie Team, was co-rookie of the year for the team and earned the WILA all-academic award. This year she transitioned to midfielder and started in all 19 games scoring 33 goals and picking up 15 assists.

Good luck Erin in your final two years at Lindenwood!

Lindenwood won the third place trophy at the NCAA tournament

OshawaSportsXpress.ca

19


healthandfitness

Everything on the Grill We are in the heart of one of my favourite seasons... Grillin’ Season. Everything goes on the grill, literally this time of year. Buckingham Meats is a gem of a butcher shop in Brooklin that I frequent in all seasons, to be quite honest. One thing I am always searching for are different types of BBQ techniques. So as I am picking out my order, I ask my butcher/ owner Sean Kuzenko what his best grilling advice is. Sean replies, ‘You know more and more people are very grill savvy these days. But I’d just remind everyone that if you think the meat is at your desired med rare or med well, take it off because it’s still going to cook when it comes off the grill, but if its chicken, leave it & let it cook. And you can never go wrong with a good marinade. Keep it simple’. I’m glad to be reminded that grilling is still not rocket science, just proper timing. At this time of year, I am constantly encouraging Athletes & Active Ones to eat different types of protein, to give the body more variety. Buckinghams has a quality selection of meats, high in protein. And I am not just referring to the awesome thick steak, all beef burger, the juicy chicken, or the leanest sausages you’ll find around either. This summer I recommend everyone try a different type of protein like buffalo, venison, elk, even kangaroo. They are all similar to beef, leaner, higher in protein & cook just as well. For your first taste, what better way then to grill it! And there are always great fish choices here, grill that too! Take time this summer to visit Sean and his great staff at Buckingham Meats, they will field all questions you may have, as they specialize in personal service & they can provide you with some butcher secrets.

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OshawaSportsXpress.ca

Happy Grilling, Train Hard and Enjoy the Summer!


Badminton Skills Baseball Training Cheerleading Dance Extreme Sports Hockey - House League Hockey - Rep Lacrosse Training Scooter Board Skateboard Soccer Training Sport & Swim Youth Fit OSH_SPRT_XPRESS_SPRTCMP.indd 1

Make summer memories at camp ● introductory training ● skill development ● recreational play View and register today www.oshawa.ca./lol 905-436-3311

04/15/2014 4:09:43 PM


DURHAM COLLEGE LORDS THREE MAJOR EVENTS COMING TO DURHAM COLLEGE Durham College has been selected to host three major Ontario Colleges Athletic Association (OCAA) events during the 2014-15 season including the 2014 baseball championship, 2015 men’s basketball championship and 2015 volleyball and basketball allstar games. Durham’s bid to host all three events was unanimously approved at the OCAA annual general meeting in Sudbury. This will mark the 14th time Durham College has hosted the OCAA basketball all-star games, and the second consecutive year that it will be combined with the volleyball all-star games. Athletes will be arriving in Oshawa on March 27th with the all-star games taking place on March 28th. “We are excited to host the OCAA’s marquee event for basketball and volleyball for the second straight year,” said Durham College athletic director Ken Babcock. “Having over 200 participants from across the province last year made for an outstanding event and we hope to build off that success for next year. Having the basketball and volleyball all-star games share the same date and venue allows us to bring together two passionate sporting communities.” Durham last ran a major collegiate baseball event in 2009, when the college hosted the CIBA national baseball championship. The host site for the 2014

baseball championship will be in downtown Oshawa at Kinsmen Memorial Civic Stadium, which is regarded to be one of the top baseball facilities in Ontario. The championship will be comprised of the top four teams from the regular season battling it out for the provincial title from October 17-18. After making a run to the OCAA final four in men’s basketball, the Lords thought 2015 would be a great time to host to the provincial championship in their own backyard. Durham last hosted the OCAA provincial championship in 2007, as well as the CCAA national basketball championship in 2011. The championship will involve eight teams with their eye on the title as the event runs from March 6-8.

Summer Camps have been running for 28 years

“Durham Region is a hotbed for both sports and we are excited to bring the OCAA baseball and basketball provincial championships to our city and campus,” said Babcock. “With a provincial title and trip to nationals on the line, teams will be leaving it all on the court and diamond making for some exciting action.” For more information or sponsorship opportunities for all of the provincial events, please contact Scott Dennis at (905) 721-2000 Ext. 2784 or scott.dennis@ dc-uoit.ca.

SPOTLIGHT STUDENT-ATHLETE

Alumni Games are scheduled for September 27th

RAECHEL MOHNS

Sport: Women’s Volleyball Program: Advertising Hometown: Pembroke, Ont. High School: Fellowes High School What do you like most about Durham College? I like how well everything works together - Durham makes it easy and enjoyable to be a student athlete here! That makes me so excited for next season as well as my future. DID YOU KNOW: Raechel worked for the Durham College newspaper

www.durhamlords.com • facebook.com/durhamlords 22

OshawaSportsXpress.ca

Soccer training camp opens up in August


UOIT RIDGEBACKS FIND OUT WHAT UNIVERSITY SOCCER IS ALL ABOUT The UOIT men’s and women’s OUA soccer schedules have been released and the Ridgebacks will once again look to make history on the pitch. UOIT is looking to build off their success they had in their first two seasons as they qualified for the postseason in both years. With plenty of new recruits joining a talented veteran squad, soccer fans in the Durham Region will be able to fill their soccer fix as the Ridgebacks host 10 days of soccer action at Vaso’s Field this season. Training camp opens in mid-August followed by a full exhibition schedule in preparation for the regular season. Head coaches Peyvand Mossavat and Vaso Vujanovic have been working hard this off-season in preparation for another playoff run. Make sure you visit www.goRidgebacks.com for more information including schedules, promotions and the latest news throughout the year.

UOIT Soccer Home Schedule Saturday, August 30 Sunday, August 31 Saturday, September 6 Monday, September 8 Saturday, September 13 Wednesday, September 17 Saturday, September 27 Wednesday, October 1 Saturday, October 11 Sunday, October 12

Sign up to be the Team of the Game

Ottawa (Women’s Only) 1 PM Carleton 1/3 PM Trent 1/3 PM Durham* 5/6:30 PM RMC 1/3 PM Ryerson (Men’s Only) 7 PM Queen’s 1/3 PM Toronto 6/8 PM Laurentian 12/2 PM Nipissing 12/2 PM

*Campus Cup All games are FREE & at Vaso’s Field All games are Doubleheaders (women’s followed by the men’s)

THE TEAM OF THE GAME WILL RECEIVE: Tickets for all players, coaches and parents Play in the mini-game during half-time/intermission Team picture in the official game day program Autograph session with the players A Special Visit from Hunter the Ridgeback Noise Makers to cheer on UOIT Enjoy great OUA soccer/hockey action! FOR MORE INFORMATION - CONTACT SCOTT DENNIS (905) 721-8668 ext. 2784 or scott.dennis@dc-uoit.ca

SPOTLIGHT STUDENT-ATHLETE SARA VOISIN

Sport: Women’s Soccer Program: Kinesiology Hometown: Waterloo, Ont. High School: Resurrection Catholic Secondary School What do you like best about attending UOIT? Being able to be a part of a new sports program allowing me to make a name for the uprising school while still getting a great education in the field that I love. DID YOU KNOW: Sara was an OUA All-Star

The OUA Soccer Final Four will be played at the brand new Tim Hortons Field in Hamilton

www.goRidgebacks.com • facebook.com/uoitridgebacks

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23


behindthebench

Balancing Act By Mary Giacalone “Scary Mary”, Head Instructor/Owner of Scary Skate Inc. www.scaryskate.com • www.facebook.com/scaryskate • @scary_skate

Balance when standing still To be balanced when you’re standing still, all skaters must keep both feet under their body weight. Players need to be able to do this so that getting knocked off their skates is more difficult in front of the net and during scrambles. This position also helps you with your quick starts. Feet should be shoulder width apart with a deep knee bend. A great exercise is to be in that nice low position stationary on the ice, and have a team-mate try and knock you off your feet or push you off your position.

Balance while skating in a straight line To be balanced the skater must keep their body weight over the blade of their gliding foot. A skater who has balance while skating straight can handle the puck, pass

and shoot, without breaking their stride. It is really difficult to knock that skater over while they are being checked. Practice gliding in a straight line on two feet with your ankles on top of your blades. Make sure your ankles don’t drop or lean to the inside or the outside edges, but straight over your blades. Practice this balance exercise on one gliding skate as well. Hips and shoulders should be parallel to the ice. Keep your chest and body weight over your gliding foot.

Practice To improve you’re on ice balance start by practicing one foot gliding. You should be able to glide just over 6 meters in a straight line with good control and balance. Ankles on top of the blades shoulders level, skating

Mary Giacalone

knee bent, and back straight. When you have mastered this try gliding on two feet with the seat of your pants closer to the ice, your back arched, and head up. If you are having trouble arching your back place a hockey stick across the small of your back with your arms wrapped around the stick. Place your hands on your stomach with your fingers touching or overlapped. Glide like this with your chin held up high. Until you can feel the arched back. Repeat the same glide without the stick and you will feel the improvement immediately.

Balance while skating on a curve When a skater is following a curved line of travel they must use a different leaning mechanism to keep their body weight over their supporting foot. When you carry a puck it is so much easier if you are balanced. You are a lot harder to knock off balance when taking a check. If you lean the wrong way while you are skating fast and try to cut or turn sharply your feet will be pushed out from under you to the side. You need to keep the same rules of balance we discussed. Shoulders square, head up, deep knee bend, but also lean to the other side without taking the middle of your chest off your skate. You must lean into the circle from your waist down by pushing your hips into the circle. At the same time you must counter lean from the waist up keeping your inside shoulder up. I tell my skaters to pretend they are bringing their shoulder up to touch their ears. This helps with lifting that inside shoulder up and keeping the chest over your skates. Dropping your inside shoulder is a common error. This really gives you loss of balance. My final point is that skating is really a sport predominantly on one leg so practicing a lot of balance on one leg is very important. Once you have mastered balance on two skates focus working on one foot. You will not be an efficient player unless you are comfortable on one skate.

Until next time Scary Mary says I will see you at the rink…..

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teamprofiles

 

ONLINE REGISTRATION: https://sites.google.com/site/durhamattackrecvball/home

 

Durham Attack 2013-2014 Coaches The Durham Attack executive would like to thank the following coaches for doing such a  great job this past year developing the athletes to be successful both on and off the court. 



  

12U Cobras 12U Spikers 13U Boys

Nicole Crerar, Chris Williamson  Cris Barbelescu  Scott Burrows and Mike May

13U Avalanche  13U Heat 13U Chaos

Joel Banbury, Stephanie Wares and Taylor Bursey  Martin  Suits, Mollie Gearrin, Kelsey O’Hare and Jenny Richardson Jeannine Heron and Erin Campbell

14U Wolves 14U Mayhem 14U Legacy 14U Venom 14U Shockway

Anthony Hack and Steve Graham Kevin Hellyer and Kristy Moore Mick Richardson, and Ray Lee Adam Martin, Troy Neil and Jeff Reddon

15U Flare 15U Havok 

Rob PIccione, Camille Lefaive  and Jeff Simmonds Chris Dunn, Mike Cirone and  Kianna de la Cruz

16U Red Boys 16U Red Girls 16U Black Boys 16U Black Girls

Clyde Arcenaux and Scott Robbins  Linda Naccarato and Victoria Young  Mike Johnson, Lauren Giles and  Mike May Chris Williamson, Mel Allin and  Scott Handley



 U18 Boys Graduating Class  Brynn Thistle, Mike May and Gail Reid





Bev and Charlie Gearin - Volunteer Award



17U Red Girls Troy Neil, Adam Martin and Jeff Reddon  17U Boys Mike Slean, Kevin Matthews and  Winston Rosser 17U Girls Black Marius Wojick and Breigh Cameron  18U Boys Dwayne Cochrane, Scott Burrows, and Ryan McIntosh 

Amanda Mulholland - Lisa Ford Memorial Spirit Award

Wells Hick U18 Durham Attack

Club Award Winner 



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25


teamprofiles

Registrations Climb Again in 2014 Playing the sport of baseball in the city of Oshawa continues to be the cool thing to do. Registrations rose again big time this summer to nearly 700 players which marks the 5th straight year of significant growth in the number of children playing baseball in Oshawa. 300% growth in registrations since 2008. Thanks to an energetic and dedicated board of volunteers Baseball in Oshawa has never experienced such a positive time in growing registrations. The association now offers a full roster of 11 rep teams in all 11 Baseball Ontario categories as well the House league has expanded to 46 teams including and amazing 10 minor t-ball teams at the entry 4 year old level. With the 1st place Toronto Blue Jays creating additional excitement in the game of baseball it is expected registrations will continue to rise at record levels. This record growth has meant a need for additional baseball diamond use in Oshawa as well as the urgent need for lights at Ritson Field and additional diamonds in the near future. For information on how to play organized baseball in Oshawa vist www. baseballoshawa.com

MINOR PEEWEES CHAMPS AT GEORGETOWN!

The Oshawa minor peewee Legionaires are the champs! The Legionaires went the distance against the Bolton Braves in a very dramatic 8-7 win to take the Georgetown tournament on Sunday afternoon. Oshawa was facing bases loaded, with two out in the bottom of the seventh when Addam Wilson and first baseman Declan Shaw teamed up on an improbable pickoff to win the game. The winning pitcher was Jamieson Froude, his third of the tournament. He pitched five innings gave up four runs on eight hits and struck out three. Catcher Quinton McRae scored the winning run in the

championship game and was named MVP for the tournament. Oshawa went 3-0 in round robin play by beating Bolton 17-3 in the opening game thanks to a seven run final at-bat. Quinton Bain was the winning pitcher. In Game 2 on Saturday morning with an 11-9 win over the Brampton Red Sox. Addam Wilson was the winning pitcher. In the final round-robin game the Legionaires defeated the Kitchener Panthers. The team and it’s coaching staff of Kevin Wilson, Rob Forgie, Ralph Bain and Bruce Froude, now have the sights set on having a good showing in the Cleveland Indians Continental Cup Baseball Tournament in Ohio later in July.

grandchildren along with friends and family took part in the ceremony that included the Royal Canadan legion Branch 43 Colour guard and pipes. The #40 now takes it’s deserved spot on the wall at the venerable stadium.

OSHAWA RECOGNIZES DOUG STONE!

BASEBALL DAY IN OSHAWA ANOTHER HUGE SUCCESS!

Oshawa Minor Baseball OLMBA recognized Doug Stone for his many years of contributions to the game of baseball in Oshawa as a player, coach and volunteer on Saturday, June 7th at Kinsmen Civic Memorial Stadium by retiring his #40. The ceremony was part of the huge Baseball

Over 1200 players, coaches, family, friends and members of the community took part in the ANNUAL BASEBALL DAY in OSHAWA at Kinsmen Stadium. House League super clinics, Showcase 18U game featuring Oshawa vs the Toronto Mets 18U Elite team, BBQ, Dairy Queen ice cream, rep mini games on the big stadium field, with announcer, scoreboard, lights etc. plus a great outdoor movie under the star in CF on a giant 40’ screen. Players and family members enjoyed the movie “Sandlot” outdoors to cap off a wonderful day of baseball fun in Oshawa. Thanks to everyone who attended and thanks to the many volunteers from Baseball Oswwor a great job!

UPCOMING EVENTS

OBA Midget AAA Ontario Championship Eliminations August 1-3 @ Oshawa

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Day in Oshawa annual event and saw Mayor John Henry throw out the first pitch along side Doug to mark the important occasion. Doug’s father Ted (played in the Boston Red Sox organization), son Chad (former Oshawa Legionaires player) and two of his

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OBA Minor Bantam AA Ontario Championship August 29-31 @ Oshawa EOBA Mosquito & Peewee All-Star Games August 4th @ Jim Lutton Legion Field Plus three EOBA Championships in August @ Oshawa


BE A PART OF THE ACTION

This is your once-in-a-lifetime chance to play an important role in the largest multi-sport event ever held in Canada. As a volunteer, you’ll meet new people, get exclusive discounts, go to special events and, most of all, be a part of history.

INTERVIEWS START NOW! Sign up at TORONTO2O15.org/volunteer

LEAD PARTNER PARTENAIRE PRINCIPAL

FUNDING PARTIES BAILLEURS DE FONDS

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healthandfitness

Thinking Inside and Outside the Box: LAX Strength and Conditioning By Jeff Roux BPE; CSCS and Kristin Smart: BKin, Masters of Teaching

Lacrosse is a HUGE sport for male and female athletes of all ages and skill levels in the Durham Region. With a variety of participation and competitive options for both Box and Field and opportunities for athletes from the Baby Blue Knights to elite Junior, College, and Pro, to the Adult LITG and DWLL leagues and everything in between. It is a tremendous athletic, recreational and competitive sport and has set up many local athlete well for scholarship opportunities in the US and Canada. No matter what the age, skill level or seasonal goals, every Lacrosse player can all benefit from extra strength, conditioning and development to help increase their conditioning, skill development and performance both on the field and inside the box. Lacrosse has been called, “the fastest game on two feet,” and the sport is well deserving of that reputation. The ball can travel 80-100MPH, it is hard, bouncy and unpredictable and attempting to catch it, pass it, shoot it and keep up with it can be a challenge at every level. Initially, young players need to develop athleticism, fitness and physical literacy to be able to run, and develop the skills to catch/shoot/pass. At

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more elite levels, more advance movement skills (balance, speed-agility-quickness), energy system conditioning (both aerobic and anaerobic), athletic strength, core strength and stability and overall functional mobility are imperative to success. Many elements of athleticism cross both box and field sports and some are more sport, athlete and position specific.

Dynamic Balance: Lacrosse is a game of dynamic movement and skill. Players spend a majority of time on a single leg, running, stopping and changing directions, initiating, absorbing or avoiding contact and being hit or pushed off balance. Balance is a key development skill, but it is not trained simply by standing on one leg. Balance starts with the core. Proper activation and strength of the core musculature (pelvis and trunk), sets the table for balance and body control, enables the athlete to produce more force and maximizes athletic efficiency. The spine and pelvic girdle must be stabilized as the limbs move to produce motions such as running, passing, and shooting. Underdeveloped stabilizers will hinder an athlete’s potential,

and put them at a higher risk for injury.

Stop and GO! Lacrosse is a game of speed. LAX players thrive on speed, and the ability to shift gears and change directions. The faster they are, the more potential there is for success. Simple footwork drills that challenge the communication between an athletes’ nervous system and muscular system will help maximize their ability to generate speed. By creating efficient pathways within the neuromuscular system and activating the explosive, fast-twitch muscle fibres, we not only create athleticism but also reinforce gait patterning through high speed repetition and efficient, explosive movements become more natural.

Lacrosse is a game of changing directions. LAX athletes must be able to react, stop and change directions as safely, quickly and efficiently as possible. Changing directions fast is less about speeding up in the new direction, and more about the ability to decelerate efficiently before they go again. This ability to shift gears quickly can often be the biggest factor in offensive and defensive success or failure. It is also an


healthandfitness often neglected training opportunity where athletes can gain the most acceleration benefit and the ability to prevent a variety of deceleration injuries that generally happen during these direction changes (ankle sprains, ACL etc.). Although field conditions and unpredictable collisions are often the biggest factors when it comes to injury, many of these injuries can be prevented if the player can develop the strength, stability and reactive ability to respond to these unpredictable situations. Deceleration training is about teaching the athlete how to stop. An athlete who can create stability through the ankle, knee, and hip joints while absorbing forces in the sequential loading pattern of triple flexion will ultimately be able to generate more force in the opposing direction through sequential triple extension which is applied as SPEED!

Lightening First Step Lacrosse is a game of inches.

withstand, absorb and deliver force. In both cases, an athlete’s strength must be dynamic – they must be able to apply their strength to movement, and use athletic strength to improve elements such as leg power for speed.

Energy System Conditioning: Field Fundamentals: Field lacrosse is played on a large surface – about the size of a soccer field. The LAX ball moves much fast, however, speeding up the tempo of the whole game. Although it varies with different positions, a sound aerobic base is necessary for all players in order to maintain energy levels throughout the two 25 minute halves. Substitutions happen less in field than they do in box, and often some players will play the entire game. There are many changes in speed throughout the game; therefore the anaerobic conditioning system is also crucial to fuel the sprints up and down the field.

Having an extra step on another player can give you the extra jump to make a play, be in position for a shot, crash on defense, or get to that ground ball before your opponent. In any scenario, being quick on the first few steps is invaluable. First step quickness involves harnessing a combination of the above: stability and balance, nervous system firing, and efficient deceleration. Creating the explosive first step is a skill that requires proper body and gait mechanics, forefoot contact, body angle, and arm integration. Once an athlete is mechanically sound, they can begin to incorporate elements of lateral and diagonal movements into their training and evolve into stop/start direction changes and reactive progressions.

Developing skill execution under fatigue is a critical conditioning component in order to ensure the athlete can maintain the same level of skill at the end of the game as the beginning. The successful field lacrosse player is able to change directions effectively and quickly (single leg stability), explode with speed, be strong on the ball on offense and defense, and deliver a hard, unpredictable shot. They are able to do this over the span of a whole game if necessary.

Athletic Strength

Box players must be able to move with speed and efficiency around tight, small space areas. Shifts are short and explosive (1 – 1.5 min or less) before getting a break for approx. 2-3 min. This is similar to the energy system demands on a hockey player. The most important energy system for these players is the anaerobic system of short, fast bursts of speed with recovery in between. Training with work to rest ratios that maximizes the player’s ability to give full effort during shifts and recover quickly on rest intervals is essential. A successful box lacrosse player needs to be fast, agile, strong, and stable and be able to execute these skills through until the end of the game.

Lacrosse is a game of strength and power. Although the sport is not specifically upper or lower body dominant in terms of strength, each athlete needs to develop overall athletic strength. Increases in strength will improve shooting power and speed, the ability to pass hard and long, toughness on and off the ball, and overall power. Box lacrosse and field lacrosse often differ in the approved amount of body contact. Specifically, in women’s field lacrosse, minimal to no body contact is acceptable, aside from some stick or arm to body contact when playing defense. Box lacrosse, however, is significantly more physical, which means that box lacrosse athletes would also require strength to

training program for lacrosse players? For athletes dedicated to LAX year round it means developing a seasonal, progressive program that can focus on the appropriate areas of development throughout the year. For those who play multiple sports, it means adjusting your training program to maximize the most benefit for the athlete and be careful not to over-train along the way. Training in season is not only about maintaining off-season fitness, but about maximizing your development in order to peak for the most important time of the season (playoffs, provincials etc.). Success for Lacrosse players is all about managing training time, skill development, proper nutritional fueling, and recovery and regeneration to ensure that when the season starts, you will Be Ready!

The Basics of Box: The conditioning requirements of box lacrosse are different, because the sport is played on a smaller surface, and there are frequent line changes and substitutions. The aerobic conditioning necessary for field lacrosse is not as vital in box but it should not be ignored completely.

What does this all mean in terms of a

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