OLDS — The Olds Minor Lacrosse Association (OMLA) U13 Stingers capped off an amazing season by winning bronze in provincials, held July 14-16 in Edmonton.
Before that, they won the 2023 Central Alberta Lacrosse championship in late June.
In a submission to the Albertan, association president Joe Berreth noted that nearly half the kids on that team were brand new to the sport.
As a result, he wrote, it was “a mix of experience, natural athletic ability, and hard work” that enabled the team to obtain the success they did this season.
“Our provincial berth started a bit rough, dropping the first two games, even though we came out with strong leads,” Berreth wrote.
“Coaches thought a reminder on what got them there was in order, and the kids responded with a solid 13-2 win over the CDLA (Calgary District Lacrosse Association) contender and a shot at the bronze.
“Head coach Tasha Young reminded the kids, ‘it's not one or two of you that is going to get us to that podium, but it's coming together and working as a team.
‘Move the ball, trust each other, and support each other, and you guys become unstoppable.’
“This team had so much depth that every player made an impact when they hit the floor,” Berreth wrote.
“We can't thank the coaches, managers, trainers, and parents enough for supporting me and the kids in a season I hope they never forget.
“(We’re) very excited to see what these kids accomplish in the years to come, and hope they stick with this sport we love.”
Berreth noted that next year, the provincials will be held in central Alberta. The Olds association is hoping to host one of those leagues in Olds.
