New West Bellies hookin’ up troops in Kandahar with some Canadiana

October 21st, 2008 by Paul Tutka

It might be the down time for the NLL and CLA, but the New Westminster Salmonbellies haven’t stopped hustlin’ behind the scenes.

With the help of the BCLA, New West Minor loop, Jr. Bellies, Warrior, Scoff’s Hockey, Hamilton Sportswear and the City of New Westminster, the group as launched “Operation Salmonbellies Lacrosse”, an initiative that is hooking up Canadian troops stationed in Kandahar, Afghanistan with lacrosse sticks, equipment and other gear so that they can enjoy the sport in an area of the world where lacrosse isn’t exactly a national pastime.

“During the recent WLA playoffs, it came to our attention that the Salmonbellies had quite a few fans stationed in Khandahar, following our progress at the Mann Cup through the internet,” said Dan Richardson, President and General Manager of the Sr. Salmonbellies. “We posted their emails of support in our dressing room during the playoffs for inspiration.”

After a request from a soldier for some equipment, New West took the next step and organized this great initiative, which should gear up as many as 30 soldiers.

“The City of New Westminster is proud to play a part in this great initiative,” said Mayor Wayne Wright. “Our historic ties with the Armed Forces through the Royal Westminster Regiment combined with our close connection to the legendary Salmonbellies make it a great fit.”