The Vanderhoof Midget Lacrosse team played in its first ever Provincial “C” Championship in Port Moody and Port Coquitlam on the August 3 weekend. They had to follow the performance of the Pee Wee team, who won bronze in their first Provincial “C” championship. Although their hard physical play didn’t earn the Midget team a medal, their performance was noticed by teams across the province.
"It was great, it was a great experience for our group," said Tyrone Yee, coach. "We did well, we didn't come up with any victories but we had a couple close games."
Because lacrosse is just starting to really pick up in Vanderhoof, Yee said the team may not have as much experience playing together as some teams that have been together for four years or more.
The coach said that lacrosse is making leaps and bounds in Vanderhoof. This year they nearly doubled in size and Yee said he hopes they will continue to go further. They are hoping to keep the Bantam, Midget, and Peewee teams and add a Novice team next year which could add another 14 to 20 players.
Three Vanderhoof players were recognized for their great performances throughout the season and during the tournament. Eric Silver was named to the tournament’s All Star team, Jayden Syrota received the Warrior Fair Play award, and Jason Yee was named Warrior Zone 7 Player of the Year, which included a $500 bursary.
The player of the year award means more than just being outstanding at lacrosse according to Tyrone Yee. It also includes community work and giving back to lacrosse.
"My son [Jason] has been out with me to recruit and to coach and he's been at all the practices with me and the young kids and he was voted as one of the seven players given the warrior player of the year award
Vanderhoof Minor Lacrosse would like to thank their sponsors, D&D Boon Construction and BID Construction for their support. Yee would also like to thank the district for their support.