Losses to North Okanagan, 11-6, and Kamloops, 13-6, in under-14 Interior Youth Field Lacrosse League action doesn’t concern Dan Chetner.
The Penticton coach has several new players who haven’t played field lacrosse and they have only had a few practices.
“I thought the kids did great,” he said of their performances at Vernon’s McDonald Park. “We still have lots to learn about the game.”
While his players have played box lacrosse and the skills are the same as playing on a field, adjustments have to be made because the field is bigger with more space compared to an arena. Players are also learning different strategies and rules. Chetner likes that his players can build on their skills. What he wanted to see in the opening weekend was effort, while gaining experience.
“We can refer to things that happened,” he said. “Kids can have a better understanding, visualize key concepts.”
Next weekend Penticton’s first game is against Kelowna, 1-1. Chetner expects Kelowna to have a competitive team and does expect his team to get better each week.
Penticton Minor Lacrosse is also fielding an U-11 team coached by Chris Danby and Steve Nield. With the two teams combined, 47 players are registered. Three years ago they had 21 kids, then last year 36.
“That’s fantastic to see,” he said of the increase in registration. “That’s really impressive growth.”
