First Nations youth get lacrosse tips from the pros

Fresh from a highly successful inaugural season in Saskatoon (and on their way to league playoffs), members of the Saskatchewan Rush were eager to share their lacrosse skills with First Nations youth during a Sunday afternoon clinic.

While the clinic focussed on the hot moves that have propelled the team into first place in the league, Rush defender Jeremy Thompsonwas also excited about the opportunity to spend quality time with young people.

"One of the most important things you can ever do for a child is give them your time," Thompson said. "You're eye to eye and there's no telling what the child can do or where he'll take that for his life."

Thompson said passing on his knowledge and passion for the game is, in some ways, more rewarding than playing in front of 15,000 enthusiastic home town fans.

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Thompson, who is from the Onondaga First Nation near Syracuse, New York, said that when he was growing up he found lacrosse was more than just a sport. It also gave him skills for life and helped to build his pride and confidence.

"I feel honoured to be a part of this, especially where I come from," he said. "One of the things that's important to me to share is to be a good role model to them and to be an uncle, because not everyone might have their parents."

Rush coach Derek Keenan, who was alongside Thompson at the clinic, said he hopes the interaction with youngsters will help build the sport in Saskatchewan. He noted how most professional lacrosse players in Canada are from Ontario and British Columbia.

First Nations communities have also produced many top level players, Keenan said, adding there are exciting opportunities for youngsters dedicated to the game.

"It takes a bit of time to play professional but it's certainly within the grasp," he said.

Mark Arcand, a vice-chief with Saskatoon Tribal Council, said he appreciates the team's commitment to the community and making time for the fans.

"It's not too often we have a professional sports team in Saskatchewan giving back to First Nations youth," Arcand said, adding he sensed what is learned at the clinic will go a long way.

"This is going to [encourage] some role models and potentially some leaders within our First Nations communities," he said.

On Saturday night, the Rush clinched first place in the National Lacrosse League (NLL) West division. Finishing at the top gives them a bye through the first round of the playoffs. They will compete in the West Division final against either Colorado, Vancouver or Calgary.

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