The Vernon Tigers were by far the top defensive team in the Thompson Okanagan Junior Lacrosse League last season.
It showed when the league announced the annual player awards at its AGM last month.
Netting Top Goalie was the Cats’ Aaron Jensen, whose .883 save percentage and 4.525 goals-against average topped the five-team league.
Bayne Bosquet and Brett Hanna shared Top Defensive Player, and Tigers’ bench bosses Myles Brumpton, Keith Hanna and Chris Scabar were co-recipients of the Top Coach award.
Both Jensen and Brett Hanna were named tournament all-stars in helping Vernon claim silver in Junior B provincials last spring at Kal Tire Place. Bosquet is in his senior year with the SFU Clan.
The Tigers allowed a league-low 85 goals, 34 fewer than the next closest team. They were also the most disciplined team, accumulating 268 penalty minutes. The league average was 377.
“The best defensive and top goalie awards were very indicative of our style,” said Brumpton. “We were the only team with fewer than 100 goals. The guys really stuck to our system and bought into everything we brought to the table.”
Brumpton also praised Hanna and Scabar for their contributions to the program.
“With both Keith and Chris, it was really a good team and we made it work with our busy lifestyles. I’m proud to be part of a great coaching unit and team.”
Roxanne Seaton, who works tirelessly in the background as the Tigers’ GM, was named Volunteer of the Year. She was instrumental in helping the Cats organize a successful provincial tourney.
“She’s the glue, she holds it all together,” said Brumpton.
Sniper Brady Jorgensen of the Kamloops Venom finished with 66 goals and 37 assists to take both the TOJLL scoring title and league MVP. Teammate Riley Peterson, who was runner-up in league scoring (26-47-73 in 14 games), claimed Top Rookie.
