One thing that experience in lacrosse (and all sports) has taught me it that to win a championship, at any level is a very difficult, whether it is for the NBA crown, The Stanley Cup or The Women's U19 Provincials....to win it all is tough. So when you have the opportunity to do it, you must take it. Owen Sound U19's have a great shot. A great bunch of girls with balanced skill levels, have put together a 10 win 3 loss season (their best ever), combine that with some fantastic coaches Jessica and Tristen, it is "GO" time.
I have enjoyed my time this year as an assistant, and am disappointed that I won't be there, although I will be in spirit.
I have never been shy to voice my opinion...as most of you know, so today is no different. I have a couple of things to say to the girls...
Let's start with goaltending - Shelby - You are the rock. Defence starts with you. Offence (transition) starts with you. Relax. Talk. Play your game. It is that easy. You had a great season. Feed off of that. If a goal gets by you..shake it off....time to think about the next shot. Have fun!!
Kayla - use your voice to rally the team - we need the team spirit....1-2-3- NORTH STAR
Mackala - remember to slide your hand up on the stick....easier to catch...
Bo - Good transition player - stay low on ground balls.
Brooke - intimidate on defense...go for a run with the ball - use your athleticism.
Sarah - use all your skills - give and go - back door to the net with Torey or Kate - own those faceoffs
Jenn W - you have some goals in that stick - but.....follow your shots....ball possession
Tessa - tough midfield player....push the ball......when you get to the net - shoot with authority!
Jenny L - run the ball....draw a crowd...and dump to an open player...works every time
Shayla - tough on defense, if you get a chance grab that ball and run....when you see a player closing in...pass it off.
Taylor - soft hands when you are catching the ball...keep your feet moving on defence (and don't get hurt)
Jordaine - catch the ball before you run - softly - bend your knees....and then run!! - Use your speed on defence...chase them down and hit their stick.
Nicole - use your speed and chase down the ball - relax on offence - catch before you run.
Kate - share the ball - give and go - mix up your shots...go low go high.....come to the ball, then hard to the net...catch the pass....GOAL.
Torey - mix up your shots - be a leader - talk to the team - keep things positive - share the ball - play tough.
*Quick hitters*
- know your role, and play within it.
- remember the offsides....who is responsible to count.....if Brooke or Shayla go for a run someone must stay back
- give up the ball - you will get it back.
- cheer each other on...tap your goalie, be loud and proud
- if you get down - stay "up" - in lacrosse you can always turn the game around
- Listen to Jessica and Tristen, they have a tremendous understanding of this game, it is easier to see things from the sideline...when there is a timeout, get your water quickly and listen to what the coaches are saying...timeouts are short.
- your opponent
- your teammates
- the officials
- your coaches
- yourself
Provincials are a blast - Have fun, laugh, and when it is game - focus.
Good Luck Girls - I am really proud of you all.
Mike.
Good luck to you Mike. Both of my girls Brampton Teams will be there too. One in Rep A the other in C
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