SMLL championship coming to Pictou

The fastest game on two feet had to put on the brakes in 2020. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, minor lacrosse programs in Nova Scotia were idled. But this summer, as provincial restrictions began to ease, Craig Fukes, president of Pictou County Snipers Lacrosse was eagerly planning the 2021 season.

As the host team for the Scotia Minor Lacrosse League (SMLL) Championships, to be held at the Hector Arena in Pictou, August 7-8, he has been very busy.

In 2019, the Pictou County Snipers became founding members of the SMLL, which includes, Valley Thunder Lacrosse,Truro Bearcats Lacrosse and Cape Breton Warriors Lacrosse. Because of the delayed start to the season, box lacrosse usually runs April to June, and a lingering anxiety among some parents about COVID-19 and travel, registration numbers were down, prompting Cape Breton Warriors to withdraw their teams, this season.

Despite the challenges, the Snipers were able to assemble teams in the U10,U13 and U17 age divisions.

Nolan Fukes, 13, is thrilled to be back on the floor competing

“Lacrosse is my favourite sport! I was really sad when we couldn’t play , last year”

He proudly announces that his U13 team are undefeated in six regular season games and the whole team is excited and prepared to defend their Division Championship title, this weekend, in Pictou. When asked what is the key to his team’s success, Fukes replied,”We have a strong passing game. We call out plays to each other and we see and react well to what’s happening on the floor “.

The U10 team finished first in their division, while the U17 Snipers will be the underdogs, going into the championships, finishing last in their division.

The SMLL Championship weekend will also include a Skills Competition for U13 and U17 participants.

To follow the Pictou County Snipers Lacrosse, visit their website, pictoucountylacrosse.ca, Facebook page or Instagram. For SMLL information, go to smll.ca

- Kim Aylesworth

https://www.saltwire.com/nova-scotia/communities/scotia-minor-lacrosse-league-championship-coming-to-pictou-100620440/