There’s no doubt these guys can still play – in fact, they’re among the best in the West.
Two Nanaimo Timbermen Masters Lacrosse Club teams are off to the mainland this week for the Western Canadian Masters Lacrosse Championships in Burnaby Friday (July 1) through Sunday.
The over-45 team will try to defend its championship from last year, while the over-35 team will try to capture a title that just barely eluded them last year.
Ken Morrison, alternate captain of the over-35 masters, said his team is well-prepared and has had some strong practices leading up to the big tournament.
“We get a lot of guys out, sometimes we get 30 out with both teams,” Morrison said. “We have scoring depth on our team and we have good defence, too … People think it’s just old-timers, but there’s some good lacrosse.”
The numbers on the over-45 bench won’t be quite as good, as only 11 runners are expected to make the trip.
“So we’re going to have a tough time coming back with the cup like we did last year, but we’re ready to go,” said Terry Bayes, captain of the over-45s.
The players are looking forward to the challenge – they’ve been building all season for this weekend.
“It’s what it’s all about,” said Bayes.
It’s a chance to renew old rivalries, as Morrison said games against the Ladner Pioneers masters, for instance, are always bruising affairs.
“Everyone has a good time. That’s mostly what it’s all about, is having fun,” Morrison said. “If we win, we win.”
sports@nanaimobulletin.com
