In a sport where physical and aggressive play can dominate, Sara Keddy, secretary for the local lacrosse association, believes that the referees do a great job of containing control.
“If people are worried about the physicality of it, there are clear rules and clear
Lacrosse is a sport that feels very similar to hockey and is played between two teams using a small rubber ball. In the Valley, the more common version is box lacrosse - or indoor lacrosse - played in a hockey rink after the ice is removed. Five players and a goaltender are on the floor at a time per team and participants wear gear similar to hockey: helmets, mouth guards, chest protectors, knee pads, elbow pads and sneakers.
Playing out of Berwick and Kingston, the Thunder are heading into their ninth season in the Valley Lacrosse League and regularly face-off against teams out of Kentville and Digby. Ages of players range from five to 18, starting at the mini tykes level and going all the way up to intermediate, with teams made up of a mix of boys and girls. Practices take place twice a week, with usually one or two games on the weekends. It’s hoped that games against Halifax Metro-area club teams will also be added this spring.
The Thunder will also be hosting the Apple Cup, open to all ages, on June 3 and 4, added Sara Keddy.
Jamison Keddy, who has been playing for the Thunder for three years now, loves lacrosse. The level of fitness it gives him is the biggest draw.
“(Lacrosse) is not to gentle, it's more rough and exciting. I've gotten a few of my friends into it and they've really enjoyed it, I've met new friends there too, so it's pretty fun,” he said.
Registration for the Valley Lacrosse will be held April 1 from 1-4 p.m. at the Kings Mutual Century Centre in Berwick and at the 14 Wing Greenwood Community Centre, and again on April 15 from 10 a.m.-noon at the Greenwood Mall.
Coaching opportunity
Coaches and referees are always a need in the league. For any adults looking to get into coaching, there will be a free clinic held on April 8 at the Credit Union Center in Kingston. On April 9, anybody from the age of 14 and onward will have the opportunity to earn their level 1 and 2 in officiating for $55.
Go online: For more information about Valley Thunder Lacrosse, visit www.valleylacrosse.ca or email [email protected].
