London Thrashers hope to expand women's lacrosse
On any given day it’s not hard to find out what’s happening in the major, mainstream sports. But what about those sports that don’t have the same high profile, star players, or commercial sponsors as the likes of hockey, baseball, or golf?
That’s where the London Thrashers come in.
The senior women’s lacrosse team is on a mission to build up their sport, and in particular, the sport for women.
“It makes you feel good, and there’s no better feeling than coming to play lacrosse, or play a game,” said Skye Antone. A member of the Thrashers, she was at Lambeth arena Wednesday evening taking part in an exhibition match against the Hamilton Lady Bengals. “Even just practice, it feels good to just pass the ball around,” she added.
London Thrashers lacrosse team at Lambeth Arena in London, Ont. on Thursday, June 30, 2022. (Bryan Bicknell/CTV News London)The 26-year-old is one of 25 women on the Thrashers’ roster. The team is part of the Women’s Major Series Lacrosse League. They play games across the province throughout the summer, with the championships held in August. General Manager Karie Wells started the team in 2018. She said they’re trying to work their way out of the shadow of the men’s game.
“We’re trying to break that barrier for sure,” Wells said. “We do see some progress there. There’s definitely some work to be done but we’re very happy with how far we’ve come, and the expansion, and the interest in women’s lacrosse for sure.”
Some of these women play hockey in the wintertime, and play summer box-lacrosse (indoor lacrosse) to stay in shape. Others do it for the recreation or camaraderie.
But the one thing they have in common is that when they’re out on the floor it’s all business, said Wells.
London Thrashers lacrosse team at Lambeth Arena in London, Ont. on Thursday, June 30, 2022. (Bryan Bicknell/CTV News London)“It is pretty rough, and the women they don’t mess around either,” she said.
Every bit as rough and tumble as the men’s game, but it’s also a game of heart,” said Thrashers team player Melissa Kennedy. “It’s not just a boy’s sport, it’s a girl’s sport. It’s where you develop friendships, develop long-term friendships. Where you learn not just skills. It’s a medicine game, you know?”
On this night, the exhibition match ended with a 6-2 win for Hamilton. But it’s not about the final score, so much as it is about the joy of playing the game,” explained Antone.
“You know, enjoying each other’s company, and just being here just makes me happy, and it’s kind of my happy place again,” she laughed.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
From outer space? Sask. farmers baffled after discovering strange wreckage in field
A family of fifth generation farmers from Ituna, Sask. are trying to find answers after discovering several strange objects lying on their land.
Broadcaster and commentator Rex Murphy dead at 77: National Post
The National Post is reporting that Rex Murphy, the pundit and columnist who hosted a national call-in radio show for decades, has died.
Pearson gold heist suspect arrested after flying into Toronto from India
Another suspect is in custody in connection with the gold heist at Toronto Pearson International Airport last year, police say.
Millions of cyberattacks per hour as B.C. government investigates multiple breaches
Careful attention to government statements and legislation is required to get a handle on the level of risk British Columbians’ information is under, as investigators probe multiple breaches under a continued barrage of attacks.
Ontario family receives massive hospital bill as part of LTC law, refuses to pay
A southwestern Ontario woman has received an $8,400 bill from a hospital in Windsor, Ont., after she refused to put her mother in a nursing home she hated -- and she says she has no intention of paying it.
Debate on abortion rights erupts on Parliament Hill, Poilievre vows he won't legislate
A Conservative government led by Pierre Poilievre would not legislate on, nor use the notwithstanding clause, on abortion, his office says, as anti-abortion protesters gather on Parliament Hill.
Justin and Hailey Bieber are expecting their first child together
Hailey and Justin Bieber are going to be parents. The couple announced the news on Thursday on Instagram, both sharing a video that showcases Hailey Bieber's growing belly.
Here are the ultraprocessed foods you most need to avoid, according to a 30-year study
Studies have shown that ultraprocessed foods can have a detrimental impact on health. But 30 years of research show they don’t all have the same impact.
New 'Lord of the Rings' film coming in 2026
The Oscar-winning team behind the nearly US$6 billion blockbuster 'Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit' trilogies is reuniting to produce two new films.