After years of girls not having anywhere to go to play lacrosse after the age of 16, and a lack of participants, the Rockyview Silvertips are looking to change things up.
“We’re trying to promote the girls lacrosse program since it’s growing exponentially in Rockyview right now,” said Silvertips manager Heather Greenan.
“The goal is to let girls know that there is place to play.
“Years ago, all the girls had to play on boys teams. Last year was the first we had a girls team in every division from novice through to midget. This year, we’ve approved a junior team as well. So, the sport is gaining momentum.”
To raise awareness for lacrosse, Silvertips have recently been hosting camps for novices, returning veterans, graduating midgets, and other lacrosse players looking to return to the lacrosse at the junior level.
“Last year we had around 60 girls registered in Rockyview,” Greenan said.
“At our camp last Friday, we had 40 girls, many of whom had never held a stick before.
“A lot of girls play other sports like hockey and basketball, so some of them can’t make it to camps, but then they register and participate after their other sports are over.”
How many girls does Greenan expect will participate this season?
“We’re expecting there’s going to be at least 80 this year,” she said.
What does Greenan believe is the cause for the sudden influx of female players?
“I think it’s because there’s a lot of opportunities for scholarships and chances to play with teams down in the States,” she said.
“U.S. schools recruit a lot up here for field lacrosse, and they look at indoor players because of the skills, speed, and knowledge they possess.
“A few of our players participated in a field lacrosse tournament called the President’s Cup in Florida last fall, and there were 400 schools there recruiting, so the opportunities are huge.
“Also, many of our players have a background in hockey, ringette, or basketball, and they invite their teammates.”
Greenan believes another major factor in growth, has been the National Lacrosse League’s (NLL) Calgary Roughnecks, who have held clinics in schools during previous years, run by their former captain Andrew McBride.
“A lot of girls have brothers who have played and wanted to try it,” she said. “It’s fast, physical, and requires a great deal of skill.
“In my opinion, it’s the best game to watch because of the constant action. In the girls I’ve managed, I’ve seen confidence, skill, leadership, and teamwork flourish. They have an incredible passion for the sport.”
To learn more about the Silvertips program and camps, visit silvertipslacrosse.com
