NLL Insider

That’s right, the best graduating JR A players in BC took to the hardwood of Queen’s Park Arena last night for the first ever JR Prospects game. Pitting the best players in their final year against one another, the game was a means of showcasing them to the people who hand out the contracts. 36 runners and 4 tenders were split into two squads, led by coaching staffs from Victoria and Coquitlam and it was anything but an all star game.

 Every player out there got the chance to show what they can do. Many of the WLA teams had some form of representation at the game but I was only able to see Chris Hall of the Washington Stealth at the game. I mentioned this last night during the broadcast that a lot of the guys aren’t very well known outside of BC and this would be an excellent opportunity for them to shine. But with very little NLL presence a lot of their efforts may have gone to waste.

 It’s obvious that the heart of the lacrosse world is back east and a large percentage of the GM’s are from there as well so for them to come all the way to Vancouver for this game, may have seemed pointless. Regardless, the boys went out and did their thing and it was one of the best games I’ve seen this year. Back and forth went the scoring in a fast paced high tempo atmosphere. The game got off to a bit of a slow start as the players took some time to get used to playing with new teammates and a new style.

 Some players really shone last night, like Brandon Gibson of the Langley Thunder. The American from Yale really turned some heads with his play and showed that he has adapted to the Canadian game. With a little more exposure to the game and some solid coaching he could turn into a great NLL baller. Also Jordan Flaman of the PoCo Saints showed his flashy stick skills and lightening quick first step. He had defenders and goaltenders falling over as they watched him run by. Although relatively small by NLL standards, his speed and athletic ability can take him a long way.

 Corbyn Tao and Curtis Dickson were two other stand outs last night. Tao racked up 6 points and Dickson had 4. Both showed their strengths and at the same time played unselfishly through out the game. This was key for me. The players who realised that as much as the game was about showcasing their skills, it was also an opportunity to show they can adapt and play well with others!

 Over all it was a great event put on the by the BCJLA and should be a staple for years to come. I just hope more NLL teams represent in the future so that BC’s diamonds in the rough get as much chance of being uncovered as those back east.

Jenner is a two-time Mann Cup champion with six years of NLL experience. Email him at ted.jenner@nllinsider.com also follow the Coquitlam Jr. A Adanacs and the Intermediate A Adanacs live, as Teddy brings you color commentary with Brad Challoner for the Jr's and play by play with Brody Allen for the Intermediates -- http://www.junioradanacs.com/multimedia.php

Rate This Story:

(+25 rating, 9 votes)

 Loading ...