The Final Day

Today we finally flew home! I think the kids were excited as most of them are burnt out by the extremely busy schedule and of course the crazy heat we have had. We were up early this morning and had the vans packed by 10AM. At 11AM we started on our way to Newark airport so we could get checked in early. We were a bit concerned about the trip home as the players that left on Monday had a ton of classic Air Canada hassle but things went extremely smooth. All of our players easily checked in and were on their planes before they knew it. The first group arrived to welcoming parents at 11PM while the second was their a short 30 minutes later to the second phase of teary eyed moms waiting for their little boys.

Final Thoughts

I have so many thoughts and emotions that run through my head when I think of this 11 day event. It has been a long three-year process that has been physically and mentally taxing on myself as well as others. I have had my name run through mud and have had to deal with many road-blocks and issues along the way. There have been so many non-believers in what we are doing and people that stand behind walls and lob bombs at our program and our philosophy’s. It has been almost a full time job defending our ideas and plans. So in the end why would I keep going? I have no kids in this program. I am not paid to coach in this program. I do not have a vested interest in Edmonton as I have only lived here three years. Why? That is a question that is so easy to answer right now. I have listed just some of the reasons below (in no particular order):

So all the guys can marvel at the White House

So Cole Sheen can learn the game but also beam with energy because of all the new things he is participating in.

So guys like Kirby, Matt, Spencer and others can get college opportunities

So Matt and Erik Hansen, Adam Phillips and Ben Snider can show how much they improved in one short year, and become guys that you can call on in a clutch situation.

So Mitch McAvoy can say he likes field way more than box!

So Matt Pick and Matt Mackenzie can get some experience before they go off to Prep School.

So coaches like Adam and Kenny can develop and truly start to understand the game and how to coach it.

So Nils Thompson has a chance to show how strong of a leader and what an excellent young citizen he is and will continue to be.

So Greg Bourret can go from never wanting to leave home to play lacrosse to maybe I will write the SAT and look at that option.

So Chris Britton can become an excellent go-to Draw guy.

So our longpoles can become a very scary force after only a few years of playing that position.

So each and every player can have a chance to play the game and to use that team and game to get a number of other life experiences.

So Peter Holick can go to sleep for the final time knowing his son Tyler is a better person and player because of our program and club.

This a sample of the actual list I jotted down. We are a program that is leading the charge in Alberta and beyond. Although it is now focusing to the TLP Power these opportunities and the program goals will remain the same. Our teams placed very well but in the end that seems to be playing second fiddle to the entire experience. I have enjoyed my time with these kids over the past three years and will miss each of them. I am glad we were able to have a great time and to hopefully make some life memories. I would like to thank everyone for making this trip and club a rewarding experience. All of the coaches were awesome and worked well together. The players were respectful and humble and the parents have been gracious.

Playoff Sunday

Today was the final full day for our teams in New Jersey. The JV team was the first seed after the round robin and earned a playoff birth with the Lax Dawgs at 8AM. This early draw was great as it gave us a chance to play in the early morning weather. The Lax Dawgs were our first game of the tourney, a 5-4 victory for us. This game was very similar to the first. Our boys came out flying and were dominating the play. It looked as though we would be able to cruise to a semi-final win. After being up 6-1 we seemed to be complacent and let them back in the game. The opponents scored the next three goals to get to within 2 at 6-4. Our boys were then able to finish them off with three late goals, two from Dustin Reykdal and one from Adam Wild. This was a big victory for us as it gave our team a birth into the Championship game.

Game Stats: Adam Semchuk (2 Goals), Dustin Reykdal (3 Goals), Erik Turner (1 Goal), Mitch McAvoy (1 Goal, 2 Assists), Robyn Boettcher (1 Goal), Adam Wild (1 Goal, 1 Assist), Matty Andruchow (1 Assist).

Championship Game

The Final game was against Trilogy lacrosse, the same team that won the previous tournaments Sophomore A division winner. Our guys came out hard and took it to them to start the game. We got a 3-2 lead going into the half and looked to take control in the second half. The second half was not a great half for our team though and we came out slow. Our team made many unforced errors and gave the ball away on some poor decisions. We gave them four straight goal and a 6-3 lead. Adam Semchuk responded to make it a two-goal game with 3 minutes left. Our team began to pressure and got some chances but could not bury the ball. In the end Trilogy scored two more late ones to finish us off with an 8-4 victory. Elton Francis received player of the game for his gutsy performance.

Game Stats: Dustin Reykdal (1 Goal), Adam Semchuk (2 Goals), Erik Turner (1 Assist), Ben Snider (1 Goal), Erik Hansen (1 assist), Cole Sheen (1 Assist), Adam Wild (1 Assist).

Final Tournament Stats:

Mitch McAvoy (4 Goals, 3 Assists), Adam Phillips (3 Goals), Adam Wild (6 Goals, 5 Assists), Ben Snider (1 Goal, 1 Assist), Dustin Reykdal (6 Goals, 1 Assist), James Pruden (1 Assist), Erik Turner (3 Goals, 3 Assists), Adam Semchuk (8 Goals, 1 Assist), Dallas Smith (2 Goals, 2 Assists), Matty Williams (1 Goal, 2 Assists), Elton Francis (2 Goals), Matt Hansen (3 Goals, 1 Assist), Cole Sheen (1 Goal, 1 Assist), Matty Andruchow (1 Assist), Robyn Boettcher (1 Goal).

We had a great tournament and I think our boys, although disappointed with the loss in the final, were quite happy with the chance to play each of the five games. Finishing second in the JV A division was a great feat for us as this was the highest level for our age bracket. We fought a ridiculous heat of 40 degrees Celsius today and worked hard to make the final close.

Tonight we watched Batman and came back to the hotel to get packed up for our departure tomorrow. There is an air of excitement around the guys as I do think they are all getting a bit homesick.

The tournament today started at 8AM for our JV team. This is a good draw for us because the temperature was still only hovering around 24 degrees Celsius. Our team gathered in and decided to dedicate our day to the late Peter Holick. This would mean we would have to push hard and fight through adversity. We were scheduled to play at 8AM, 11AM, and 2PM.

Game 1 vs. Top Dawgs

This was our first game of the day and was going to be our opportunity to gel together as a team. We came out strong and got the first goal (Mitch McAvoy from Ben Snider). Our team had some mid game issues and gave up the ball on some bad decisions. Our longpoles also had some issues with our slide package and this led to the Dawgs scoring four of the next five goals to lead the game 4-2. Adam Phillips scored the Backs second and third goals with Mitch McAvoy adding his second of the game to tie it at four. Adam Wild had a nice drive to the middle and buried the ball for what would be the fifth and Game Winning Goal. Overall a good, not great, effort for our squad. Game Stats: Mitch McAvoy (2 Goals), Adam Phillips (2 Goals), Adam Wild (1 Goal), Ben Snider (1 Assist), Dustin Reykdal (1 Assist), James Pruden (1 Assist), Erik Turner (1 Assist).

Game 2 vs. Two Knights

This game had a much different start for the boys in gold. We came out strong and had our offense clicking. The Razorbacks scored the first six goals and were up 6-0 before the end of the first half. Up by a big lead, the team became relaxed and a B quality effort started to show up. This led to the Knights scoring 5 stright goals and getting to within one. After a wake up call from the team leaders, the boys in gold finished the game as they started. The Razorbacks scored 5 straight to finish the game and secure a 10-6 victory. This was a big win as it gave our club a chance to control its own destiny, with a victory in its third game we would finish first in our pool. Game Stats: Mitch McAvoy (1 Goal, 1 Assist), Dustin Reykdal (2 Goals), Adam Semchuk (1 Goal), Dallas Smith (1 Goal, 1 Assist), Erik Turner (2 Goals, 1 Assist), Adam Wild (2 Goals), Matty Williams (1 Goal), Elton Francis (1 Assist).

Game 3 vs. Long Island

This game was a tough one for our team. The opponents were very young, small and underskilled. These games are difficult as you have a tendency to play down to the opponents level. This is exactly what happened to start the game, our team took a 4-1 lead into the halftime. The second half of the game was a much different story for the team as we rattled off 9 goals while Dustin Reykdal allowed none in net. Adam Semchuk had a breakout 4 goal game for the Backs. This game secured first place place in Pool A for the Razorbacks and a bye into the tournament semi-final. Game Stats: Dallas Smith (1 Goal, 1 Assist), Elton Francis (1 Goal), Adam Wild (1 Goal, 4 Assists), Adam Semchuk (4 Goals, 1 Assist), Matt Hansen (3 Goals, 1 Assist), Adam Phillips (1 Goal), Cole Sheen (1 Goal), Matty Williams (2 Assists). A great day overall for our team. We finished with three wins and feel as though we have not had our best game as of yet. Applebees fed us tonight and all of the team is bedding early so we are ready for a playoff run tomorrow. Tomorrow is our last day of competition so the message is simple. There is nothing else to save yourself for, live and work in the moment and seize the opportunity. I also would like to pay my respects to the Holick family. Peter’s service was today and from all accounts it was well attended. We have dedicated our games and effort to him and his memory.

Round Robin Tourney Stats: Mitch McAvoy (3 Goals, 1 Assist), Adam Phillips (3 Goals), Adam Wild (4 Goals, 4 Assists), Ben Snider (1 Assist), Dustin Reykdal (2 Goals, 1 Assist), James Pruden (1 Assist), Erik Turner (2 Goals, 2 Assists), Adam Semchuk (5 Goals, 1 Assist), Dallas Smith (2 Goals, 2 Assists), Matty Williams (1 Goal, 2 Assists), Elton Francis (2 Goals), Matt Hansen (3 Goals, 1 Assist), Cole Sheen (1 Goal).

SIX FLAGS!

Today we got up and headed straight for six flags. We decided to take the boys on Friday and try to get home a bit early so they can get some rest for Saturday. It was the hottest day yet but it didn’t stop the boys from enjoying themselves. They all had access to both the Water park and the Amusement park. We stayed at the park from 10AM to 4PM and then headed back to the hotel. The boys were all tired and burnt so we came back to the hotel for a night of chilling out and relaxing. All in all a great day and our last activity day of the trip. Tomorrow we start our final tournament, the Sweet Laxin’ tournament in Bridgewater, NJ.

Today was a bit of a down day, we ended up putting off the visit to the amusement and water park at Six Flags and opted to keep the guys fresh and cool for the exhibition games in the evening by going to the movie theatres to see Hancock with Will Smith. Following the movie we grabbed some lunch and headed over to Dick's Sporting Goods store so the guys could do some shopping. We then headed off to Bridgewater for some light scrimmage against a Michigan team and the hosting Bridgewater Knights. Our scrimmages were cut a tad short because of bad weather and some lightning, so we headed into the facilites for some pizza which was provided by the host club. The vans were loaded up and we brought the guys home to the motel and called it a night.

New York, New York!

Today the razorbacks made a day trip to the Big Apple. The day started with a bus tour through the heart of Manhattan, where the ‘backs saw some of the highlights of New York such as Ground Zero, Time Square, SoHo, Greenwich Village and the statue of Liberty from a distance. After the bus tour the boys had lunch at Planet Hollywood in the middle of Time Square. Following the star studded lunch, the boys had the opportunity to walk around Time Square and Broadway to check out some of the stores, and test there hand at haggling with the street vendors. The day in New York ended with a trip to the top of Rockefeller Tower where we were able to see all of New York and its landscape. Although the ‘backs didn’t get to see all that the City has to offer they had a chance to get a taste of what New York was all about.

On a sad note Peter Holick's funeral service will be at 3:00PM on Saturday the 19th at St. Johns Church (9830 148 Street)

Down Day, Finally! Full Team Update

Today is the first day that some of our coaches felt a bit sluggish. It is also the day to say good-bye to 9 of our players as they returned home to Edmonton. It was hot again, about 33 degrees outside. We planned to go to a High School prep School called Lawrenceville Prep in the morning for a practice. The Lawrenceville coaches were great help and offered us their new sport turf field for a morning practice and shoot around. While there we had all of the players take a tour of the school so they could get a bit of an idea of the amazing facilities and beautiful campuses these schools have. After our tour we took the team back to Hoagie Haven in Princeton for a classic hoagie and to say good-bye to the departing players. The afternoon was spent relaxing for some, shopping for others, while the sick rested in hopes of recuperating. Supper was at the local Rib place, which everyone seems to enjoy and then we bedded down early for our big day in NYC tomorrow.

There was a grey cloud hovering the team today though as we heard that our friend Peter Holick passed away after his courageous battle with cancer. Peter’s son Tyler was en route to be with family this morning. Peter was a great friend and he taught me personally a ton about enjoying life. He would beam with pride when Tyler made an amazing save or when the nurse in the hospital in Victoria called Tyler “beautiful”. I have been fighting with this all day and am trying to keep things together so we can keep this trip on the rails. I am disappointed that I never got to see him one last time or that he was not able to see some video of Tyler’s unbelievable play here in New Jersey. I can’t understand why the good guys in the world suffer so much, people like Peter who seem so dedicated to family. He was super-supportive of our program and of me as an individual. We took him on as a support staff and enjoyed him traveling with the team. I cannot believe that one year ago he was on the sidelines holding his dog back from ripping my new puppy apart and smiling with that “shit-eating” grin that he used to get. Peter if you are watching us, the next time I throw my blackberry on the sideline it will be for you (a little joke from Nationals two years ago, a moment we shared as friends). I miss you already my friend and hope that you are being rewarded in the afterlife for the positive leadership you gave to us on earth. Good- bye my friend I will do my best to look out for Tyler and promise to help him in any way I can.

I am not sure if this blog is to personal to post but I did feel as though these were my overall thoughts on the day. Selfishly it has also been a good way for me to get some emotions out.

RS

Always making your dad proud
RIP Peter Holick

U14 Tournament Summary

The U14 tournament ended after only a single game in the playoff round. The kids were matched up against the Braveheart team from California. The opposition had about 6 inches and 50 pounds on our guys, but we did not back down. We played them hard and handled their pressure well. We did, however, have problems with their one on one plays due to their size. We ended up losing the game 7-2, but I was extremely proud of how the team played the entire weekend – through the heat and dust. They played hard and I believe learned a lot about the game.

The team spent the rest of the day watching the other Razorback teams play in the playoffs. Both teams advanced deep into the playoffs and competed very hard. They both faced the problems of playing in the heat with limited players. This in the end probably hurt them, but again the learning experience was invaluable.

Monday was a very long day of driving and touring as all the players traveled to Baltimore and Washington. They had the opportunity to go to Lax World to buy the latest and greatest gear, eat at ESPN Zone at the inner harbor and visit Washington DC. The day was full of sights and an chance to see the Washington Monument, the White House and the Viet Nam War Memorial. It was a great day many of them will remember for a lifetime.

U16 / U19

Today was a long day of travel and sightseeing. As per usual the boys were great and enjoyed themselves. We started off this morning at 6:30AM and headed on our way to Baltimore. At around 9:30 we all pulled into Laxworld, the lacrosse superstore, and gave our guys an hour and a half to shop their feet off. From there we went to the US Lacrosse Hall of Fame which is situated at Homewood Field. Homewood Field is the storied field of the Johns Hopkins Blue Jays Lacrosse Club. The teams cycled through the Hall and “ooooed” and “awwwwed” at the Air Gait statue as well as the other Canadian paraphernalia. From the Hall we traveled a bit farther south for lunch at the Inner Harbour. We ate at ESPN Zone and then headed 45 minutes south to Washington DC. The boys marveled at the city and in particular the White House. After miles and miles of walking around the terrific monuments the entire group was tired. We got some great pictures and then headed home up the I-95. The older guys were able to absorb their final day in the area and were excited to be apart of the trip. When we started this club we thought about making a field club that offered trips that would be memorable for all. Seeing these guys today at the White House was very satisfying for me. They will have that memory forever and the club was able to provide it.

On a more serious note we have had some bad news regarding a huge razorbacks supporter. Tyler Holicks Dad has been fighting hard for his life and we received a call tonight that he is not doing that well. Peter worked very closely with me and I am personally having a tough time dealing with this bad news. I hope that he can find the strength to continue forward with his fight. Tyler and Peter are excellent supporters of our program and are always great characters to be around.

God Bless Peter.

Playoffs Baby!

All three of the Razorback teams entered a playoff run today. The U14 team entered as the eighth seed, while the Junior Varsity entered theirs as the second seed. The Varsity team finished 3-2 and entered theirs as the fifth seed in their pool. All of our teams played very well and were able to finish the tournament on a high.

Varsity Game 1

The Varsity team was refreshed and ready for their 8:40 game against the fourth seed from the other pool. The team looked good during the game and were able to pull out an 8-5 win. The Varsity squad ran a much more midfield oriented offense and used their attackmen to set up the plays. Both Tyler Holick and Spencer Stobbe were great in the pipes and cleared the ball well. Zdrill led the offense with a four goal game while Matt Hansen continued to show his improved skills by finished with one goal and one assist. Adam Reiner as also on fire during the game and played great on D and O. This game was a big win as the team had entered the must win portion of the tournament. This set up a second round game against the team from North County.

Game Stats: Kirby Zdrill (4 Goals), Greg Bourret (1 Goal), Matt Hansen (1 Goal, 1 Assist), Matt Mackenzie (1 Assist), Adam Reiner (1 Goal), Chris Britton (1 Goal), Taite Boomer (1 Assist), Todd Bryant (1 Assist), Mitch McAvoy (1 Assist).

Varsity Game 2

This game was a rematch of the very first game for the Varsity team. The Razorbacks were beginning to look very fatigued during this game and began to play a bit sloppy. The team toughed it out and kept the game very close throughout and were able to push it into overtime. The overtime period was more than exciting as the teams ran hard both ways and relied on big saves from their goalies. The Razorbacks were able to pull out an excellent winner on a goal by Zdrill. The players were exhausted and were in dire need of hydration as this set up a quarter final game in less than 50 minutes. Tyler Holick and Spencer Stobbe were unbelievable in this game and Stobbe made four key saves in overtime to give the gold team a chance to win.

Game Stats: Nils Thompson (2 Assists), Mitch McAvoy (1 Goal), Matt Hansen (1 Goal, 1 Assist), Matt Mackenzie (1 Goal), Elton Francis (1 Assist), Kirby Zdrill (2 Goals).

Varsity Game 3 Quarter Final Match Up vs. Tri-State Grey

This was the team’s third game in 3 hours and as coaches we knew it would be a tough one for us. We would have to fight hard and try to keep it close in order to have a chance. The game was very close for the first 20 minutes with the score being 4-4. The last fifteen minutes were filled with poor passes and poor choices, common mistakes that happen to a tired team. We ended up losing 7-4 but the team did leave everything on the field. A great overall game considering the other team was just coming off a three hour break.

Game Stats: Adam Semchuk (1 Goal), Matt Mackenzie (1 Goal), Greg Bourret (1 Goal), Kirby Zdrill (1 Goal). Final Tournament Stats:

Kirby Zdrill (16 Goals, 8 Assists), Greg Bourret (10 Goals, 5 Assist), Matt Mackenzie (6 Goals, 3 Assists), Mitch McAvoy (3 Goals, 3 Assists), Matt Hansen (5 Goals, 7 Assists), Nils Thompson (3 Goals, 2 Assists), Todd Bryant (2 Assist), Elton Francis (2 Goals, 1 Assist), Matt Pick (1 Assist), Adam Reiner (1 Goal), Taite Boomer (1 Assist), Adam Semchuk (1 Goal).

Final Coaches Thoughts

Our staff is extremely proud of the entire team for their effort and their attitudes throughout the tournament. No one quit and everyone sucked it up and played through exhaustion and pain. We made a mark on this tourney and this division. We were asked why we go in high divisions (entered our two high school teams in A division) and this tournament answers that question. Our team has pushed our players every time they have stepped on the field. Each and every one of them has shown extreme improvement and has shown that they can play with the best. We take some heat for being so ambitious but I think we have set the bar in Alberta, no longer is going to low level tournaments acceptable. Parents of our players and our players in general understand that these major tourneys are prime development opportunities. Many fans and parents said we were the most exciting team in the tourney and played with a ton of fire. I am very saddened that this group of young men will probably not be in a tourney as an entire group again as some will move on to other things. I am moving to Ontario at the end of the year, which made this final game even harder. I have seen these players grow as players on the field over the past three years and have felt very attached to each of them. They have been open and have been dedicated to the program and the process. This tourney was icing on the cake for me. Some of these players are going home on Tuesday to finish their box seasons and I would hope their parents have a hero’s welcome as these guys deserve it. I am excited to take our trip to Baltimore tomorrow but also saddened as I do know it will be the final time I am able to travel and bond with some of these amazing young men.

Coaches Over and Out!



JUNIOR VARSITY

The Junior Team found themselves with a 2nd place position in the North Division and first played at 11:20. The sun was already blazing and our boys were ready.

Game 1

The boys started the game with a fierce intensity. The Long Island Team matched them very well The boys started with hard hits and stick checks. The Island team matched them physically hit for hit. The boys took the play to the Long Island team with several shots. The opposition goalie made many saves to keep their team into the game. In the end, a strong defensive effort held off the Island team. The backs win 6-5. The game was a definite barn burner as Lukas Frost held the fort in the last seconds.

Game 2

The boys found themselves advancing in the pool. The sun was blazing on a hot and muggy day. The boys did not want to end their day as they faced the Tri State Black team. The team was a great matchup for our boys. They were well coached and class athletes. The boys came out firing as Dallas Smith lead the boys in calling plays and the Backs began with a 1-0 lead. The game was hard fought with excellent saves on both ends. Lukas Frost made many saves and quality clearing passes. A strong team defense held the opposition in check. The effort from our boys made the difference. The boys were outmanned and continued to out hussle the opposition. The difference was our boys had creative offesive composure by controlling the ball. Penalties troubled the backs on this day that allowed the Tri State back into the game. A classic Taylor Sept PULVERISING hit was called a penalty in the limited contact tournament. The boys held off the Tri State offense, The boys stopped 2 – 2 men down penalty kills. In the end, the boys won 5-4 in another barn burner.

Game 3

The boys found themselves in the trees seeking shade and drinking water to keep hydrated. The hot day and previous effort was draining. on the team. The team matched up well on the field. A large Smithtown bench and sideline faced the boys. The boys immediately came out firing with a full effort. Unfortunately for the Backs, that effort lead to several penalties. The backs found themselves down 2-0. The boys found the effort to continue despite being exhausted from the previous games and heat. The Smithtown team kept rolling fresh players every shift. The boys fought back and tied it up 2-2. Matty “Dub” Williams lead the team with 3 overall goals and was instrumental in the comeback. His classic bull dodge and shake and bake helped the boys back into the game. The boys again killed off 2-2 men down situations but could not hold the Smithtown team as the backs found themselves down 3-5 with approximately 5 minutes left. The boys tied the game up with about 3 minutes left 4-4. The Backs continued to pressure the Middletown goalie with quality opportunities. With approximately 2 minutes left, the Backs again found themselves down 2 men and the Middletown offense held the ball to end the game. Backs lose the semi-final game 4-5 in an excellent effort game.

Coaches Comments:

I was pleased to have the opportunity to coach and be part of this trip with these young men. The goal of the team was to give maximum effort and to learn as much as possible as we become better field lacrosse players. I have never been part of a team that withstood such sustained effort in every game. The boys matured as players from game to game. As a volunteer coach, I must return to the real world. I wish I could continue the development of these athletes. I wish the best of luck in their next tournament and continued success and development. Thank you.

WOW, TOO HOT!

Day 4 of the trip has come to a winding end and we are relaxing at the hotel like a bunch of lobsters. The temperature was between 32 and 35 today and our teams all played very well despite the heat. We are feeding and watering the horses in hopes that we have a great playoff day tomorrow.

Varsity Game 1

Our team came out fired up to play and stuck it to the other team. We controlled the play with our stick skills and our goalies made some smart plays up the field to help us keep some good ball control. We won the game with a final score of 6-1 and started the day on a real high note. Zdrill scored 1 goal and racked up two assists in the game while other attackmen Greg Bourret had 2 goals and Matt Hansen had 3 assists. Elton Francis, Nils Thompson and Mitch McAvoy chipped in with one goal each while Matt Pick added an assist from the pole position. At the end of the game we felt, as a coaching staff, that is we can continue to put some pressure on the opponent we will be able to dictate the play.

Game Stats: Kirby Zdrill (1 Goal, 2 Assists), Greg Bourret (2 Goals, 1 Assist), Matt Hansen (3 Assists), Elton Francis (1 Goal), Mitch McAvoy (1 Goal), Nils Thompson (1 Goal), Matt Pick (1 Assist).

Varsity Game 2

This game contrasted the first. We came out more than sluggish and our players struggled to catch and pass the ball. We made a number of unforced turnovers and our players quickly got an education on why field lacrosse is such a possession game. We were down 6-0 with four minutes to play before our players woke up. We reeled off 5 straight goals in the next four minutes but time did run out before we could score the tying goal. Our players were disappointed and we started to see the intense heat take its toll. We lost the game 6-5 which put our record at 2-1 for the tourney.

Game Stats: Nils Thompson (1 Goal), Greg Bourret (1 Goal, 1 Assist), Kirby Zdrill (1 Goal, 1 Assist), Matt Mackenzie (1 Assist), Matt Hansen (1 Goal).

Varsity Game 3

Our team rebounded well from our disappointing 1 goal loss earlier in the day. Heat Stroke became our concern as a number of players began to cramp up and feel overheated. We won the game 6-2 and seemed to control the play for most of the game. Our longpoles began to work well as a unit and our goalies were great again. Our attack was better than the other two games and we got some gutsy performances from Mitch McAvoy and Nils Thompson. Game Stats: Kirby Zdrill (2 Goals), Greg Bourret (2 Assists), Matt Mackenzie (2 Goals), Matt Hansen (1 Goal, 1 Assist), Mitch McAvoy (1 Goal).

Varsity Game 4

Our fourth and final game was simply a battle of attrition for our team. With a number of guys “cooked” we were able to keep the game close but as with the second game of the day we lost a one goal heartbreaker. We did not make good decisions in this game and our defense began to look fatigued by the end. Our attack were pushing the ball to the net and were not settling the play as much as they needed. These simple mistakes led to us playing a great deal of minutes on defense. That being said we still had a number of chances and simply did not convert.

Game Stats: Kirby Zdrill (2 Goals, 1 Assist), Nils Thompson (1 Goal), Matt Mackenzie (1 Goal), Greg Bourret (1 Goal), Matt Hansen (1 Assist), Todd Bryant (1 Assist), Elton Francis (1 Assist),

Day Analysis:

Our team played very well considering the circumstances. We know that we could be 5-0 at this point and are able to compete with any team here. That being said I do think we have to play harder and cut down on our unforced errors. Our team is one or two more players from being 5-0 and we simply ran out of gas. We will push hard tomorrow and we think that we can win this entire tournament.

Round Robin Final Stats:

Kirby Zdrill (9 Goals, 8 Assists), Greg Bourret (8 Goals, 5 Assist), Matt Mackenzie (4 Goals, 2 Assists), Mitch McAvoy (2 Goals, 2 Assists), Matt Hansen (3 Goals, 5 Assists), Nils Thompson (3 Goals), Todd Bryant (1 Assist), Elton Francis (1 Goal, 1 Assist), Matt Pick (1 Assist).



Junior Varsity

Game 1

The game versus the Long Island Express was a good test for the boys. The teams matched up very well with each other. The US teams showed a difference in numbers as some US teams have a large number of subs. The game started out fast as we jumped out to an early lead. The Express jumped back to tie us with a quick response as they controlled the ball in our end. The vast number of substitution numbers of the Express began to take the toll in the game. Everyone on the team showed determination and effort throughout the game. Our focus this game was to focus on our effort. The boys accomplished that with several big hits and stick checks from all positions. The boys dominated ground balls. The team was down with 7-6 with 20 seconds left in the game. The Express were called with a retaliation penalty as our boys were determined to get the ball back with hard work and effort. The boys came up short and the game ended as a 7-6 loss. The highlights of the game were several face off work by Robyn Boettcher which were added by his 3 assists. Mike Williams displayed fine finish with 2 goals.

Game Stats: Adam Philips (1G), Adam Wild (1G), Eric Turner (1A), James Pruden (1G, 1A), Mack Riester (1G), Mike Willliams (2G), Robyn Boettcher (3A)

Game 2

The game against the True North Lacrosse Fighting Beavers was one of contrast. The team was smaller in numbers and also size. The boys came out flying with emotion and determination after a very close game with the Express. The Beavers came out with a quick goal after a turnover. The boys came back and answered with 2 straight goals. The Beavers started to play a 4 wide zone. The zone was the first for many players of seeing and playing against it. With a few adjustments, the boys started to execute a few plays to beat the zone and scored a few more goals. Dallas Smith used his size and experience to field general the team to beat the zone and contributed 2 goals and 1 assist. The game ended as a 6 – 3 win for the Backs.

Game Stats: Adam Wild (2G), Ben Snider (1A), Cole Sheen (1A), Dallas Smith (2G, 1A), Erik Turner (1A), Robyn Boettcher (2G).

Game 3

Game 3 again showed the difference between a numerous US system and our boys. The team matched up well with physically with the Long Island Express West team but the difference in numbers was evident. Both teams showed battled hard for the first 5 minutes as the game remained scoreless. I was personally amazed and proud absolutely every player as they stood up to a numerous US squad and fought through every intimidation tactic and attack brought against them. The defense played exceptionally well as all player contributed to stopping the Express. The boys fell behind early in this game as they fell victim to a raunchy pro Express sideline. The nervousness showed as they missed their own easy passes and easy ground balls. The crowd soon was taken back by some outstanding effort by the boys. The boys quick sticks inside soon produced 2 goals. Draws won by Boettcher lead to the goals. The boys then gave up another goal on a pk to fall down 3-2. The boys fought back with another goal to tie it up 3-3. The physical play shocked the Express and the US sidelines as our boys matured and made the express fight for every inch they came into our defensive end. The play of Carson Snaychuck improved though out the game. The Express isolated Carson throughout the game and Carson answered with STELLAR play using his stick skills and body position. The compliment of the physical play of Sam Dalk and Taylor Sept left the Express with little options. Sam Dalk showed excellent stamina and physical presence throughout the game. He continued to aggrivate and frustrate the Express attack. The team leadership of Taylor Sept showed as he ran several long pole clears and co- ordinating the defence. The stifling physical play of Taylor infuriated the Express attack and players bench. The game was hard fought as both teams traded goals and finally the express scored one more. The Backs fell to the Express West team 5-4. The hot muggy day and the dusty dirty field was appropriate for the Backs this game. They were outmatched and they left every ounce of scrap or gas in the tank on the field. I was extremely proud of every player.

Game Stats: Ben Snider (1A), Cole Sheen (1A), Erik Turner (1G, 1A), Mack Reister (1G), Matty Williams (1G), Robyn Boettcher (1G)

Game 4

The boys were showing the effects of playing three prior games in a hot, muggy, and dirty day. The sun was blazing for the last game versus the Tri State White team. The boys again matched up well with the team physically but not in the numbers department as they faced off against a large team and fan base. The boys fell behind in this game 2-0. The first goal in response by Robyn Beottcher was one of hard work and determination. Robyn used his out matched speed and quickness to postion himself for an inside goal. Dustin Reckdahl used his size and speed to produce another goal for the backs as the score was tied 2-2. The game was then fell into a defensive battle until Taylor Sept rushed end to end for a shocking big stick goal. The backs took the lead and the players started to gain extra confidence. The team defense and the days past experiences helped the backs hold off the Tri State team. The teams traded a few goals after the Backs defense held the fort from the sustained Tri State offense. The Backs found themselves up 6-5 with about 1 minute to play until Tri State scored. The boys showed composure as they made a last ditch effort to end the game in regulation. With 3 seconds left, Dallas Smith hit a post and the Backs were headed for a 3 minute sudden death overtime. In overtime, the Backs lost the draw and were playing defense. With the Tri State middie in the high left position, Mack Reister challenged the player with aggression and determination. Mack stripped the ball from the middie and ran on a 4-3 rush. An eventual dish to Adam Wild, and the game ended with a goal. BACKS WIN…. BACKS WIN!!! The game ended on a respectful note. Both teams showed great sportsmanship as players and coaches chatted after the game.

Game Stats: Adam Wild (2G, 1A), Cole Sheen (1G), Dallas Smith (3A), Dustin Reykdal (1G), Eric Turner (1A), Robyn Boettcher (2G), Taylor Sept (1G)

U14

The first two days of the tournament have been extremely busy, demanding and rewarding. The team has 1 win and 5 losses in the round robin and find themselves against the tough Braveheart team from California on Sunday morning.

It has been evident since the start of the tournament that our team is one of the youngest teams here in the division. Also we have three players playing their first field lacrosse games ever. No excuses though. Each player has come out hard and played with intensity in stifling heat. They have not backed down from anyone.

Lee Jackman has been outstanding in net for the team as he has been thrown into the fire. Our longpoles have done an great job of playing physical. Our middies run hard every shift and our attackmen have been great at taking the ball to the net. Our scores throughout the tournament have been competitive. We lost on Day 1 by scores of 7-5 and 5-0. On Day 2 we lost 3-2 and 3-1 before winning our first game 2-1. Our last game saw us lost 6-2 to a big team from Maryland.

This tournament has taught us that we have a lot to learn about the field game and that this game is huge here in the Eastern part of the US. With 30 fields and over 250 teams this has been an eye opener for all those involved. So far the experience has been incredible and we have another 9 days to go.

TIME TO PLAY!

The actual tourney started today and we had all three teams playing. We spent the first part of the day with some light practices and then some rest. The Junior Varsity and Varsity team both saw action tonight with the JV team playing Predator Maroon and the Varsity team playing the Long Island Sting. Both teams pulled out some close fought victories.

Varsity Game

The Varsity team came out strong and jumped out to a quick 2-0 lead. Nils Thompson opened the scoring on an excellent outside shot, with Kirby Zdrill getting the assist. Our second goal was a great inside finish by Greg Bourret with Zdrill scoring another assist. The team from Long Island came back and took the lead at 3-2. The Razorbacks defense was playing soft and the team from Long Island was able to take advantage of the open space. The game then started to go back and forth and it started with Kirby Zdrill potting a nice inside finish with Ice Cream Hansen getting an assist. Bourret scored the next two goals for the Backs with Mitch McAvoy getting both assists. With the score 6-5 for the Express the Razorbacks made some adjustments on defense and began pressuring the Americans. The games momentum seemed to change and the Razorbacks rattled off the next 4 goals. Matt Mackenzie scored a goal off of a face off win fast break. Matt Hansen scored an inside goal with Zdrill getting the assist. Zdrill scored the next two goals for the Gold team with Bourret and Mackenzie each getting and assist. With the score 9-7 the Razorbacks and Express would each add one more for a 10-8 final. Bourret scored the Razorbacks final goal with Zdrill getting the assist.

The game was well played with the team getting better and better every shift. Both Spencer Stobbe and Tyler Holick played great in the pipes for the team and were able to make key saves when called upon. The boys have a huge day tomorrow with four games scheduled. The schedule is posted on Trilax.com.

Game Stats: Kirby Zdrill (3 Goals, 4 assists), Greg Bourret (4 Goals, 1 Assist), Matt Mackenzie (1 Goal, 1 Assist), Mitch McAvoy (2 Assists), Matt Hansen (1 Goal, 1 Assist).

Junior Varsity

The Junior Varsity team’s focus was to initiate play and have a concentrated effort throughout the game. From the starting whistle the players took initiative to control the game. The players showed maturity by controlling the play with ball movement and ball control. The team jumped to an immediate 2-0 lead with Dallas Smith calling plays for the team on the field. The opposition returned with an attack to tie the game within the next few minutes. The defense began to settle with stand up play by Sam Dalk and Taylor Sept. The team did not look back as their individual skills began to elevate over their opponent. Eric Turner scored 3 goals and Dustin Reykdal contributed with 1 goal and 2 assists. The final score ended with JV 6 and the Predator Maroon 3.

The game was a treat to see and coach. The team has begun to “gel” and their play reflects it. Players have begun to take responsibility for their play and play calling. Goalie Lukas Frost matured and made key saves while becoming a vocal member on the defensive side. The team has a very busy day tomorrow, they play 4 games in an extremely muggy and hot environment.

Game Stats: Eric Turner (3 G), Dallas Smith (1G, 1A), Dustin Reykdal (1G, 2A), Ben Snyder (1G), Robyn Boettcher (1G), Mack Riesterer (1A), LUKAS FROST (1A)

Overall a great day for the Club!! Paul will contribute a U14 blog as they had two games today. The did lose two close ones but seemed to work hard and learn from their mistakes.

Today was a great day for all of the teams. We got up early in the morning (8AM) to have some breakfast around the motel. Immediately after breakfast we piled into the vans and headed to our scrimmages against Chris Sanderson’s True North Lacrosse Club. We arrived at the Robinnsville field house and were scheduled to have the U14 team play followed by the Junior Varsity and Varsity team. Paul had drove down the classic New Jersey scenic route so we decided to play the JV team first. The scrimmages went well and even had a comeo appearance by All World Goalie Chris Sanderson.

From the game we went back to the hotel and let the boys take showers and get ready for a road trip to Princeton to see the famed University. Before we let the boys loose in Princeton we went to a classic food spot HOAGIE HAVEN. The boys are still talking about it and are still full. The last and final stop on our busy day was Rutgers University to watch an MLL game. The game was a little lackluster but the teams and coaches had a good experience and were able to see a professional field game.

We have a huge day tomorrow with all three teams playing. Check the website tomorrow night for some game highlights and day event blog.

Razorbacks Coaches Over and Out!

Well the day has finally arrived and we all met at the airport this morning. Most of the guys were looking tired, a few more than others, but I think we all felt ready and excited to get going. The trip to Newark was fine for the later departing teams, but the earlier team transfering through Denver arrived to a nice 2 hour delay on the connecting flight. The two hour delay caused some hassle for everyone but the day ended with all of us arriving safe. We have a big day planned tomorrow. We start early with breakfast at the hotel and then drive to our scrimmages with True North Lacrosse, which is the program that is run by Canadian lacrosse star and All World Goalie Chris Sanderson. We will cap off our first day with a MLL pro game at Rutgers University. If we are lucky our squads will make their way into Philly to experience the original Pat's Steak.

First Day Over and Out!! Razorbacks Coaches.