“If you’re good enough, you’re old enough to play at a certain level.” ~ John Herdman, head coach, Canadian women’s national soccer team.
This quote certainly applied to London Blue Devils Lacrosse player Sidney Deleary this summer, as she was one of 20 players (and the youngest) selected to represent Team Ontario at the 2016 Female Box Lacrosse Nationals (July 18-23) in Calgary, Alberta.
“When I went into my interview, I was kind of nervous, and my heart was beating fast,” said Deleary. “The coaches gave me feedback about my skills and things I needed to work on while also complimenting me on my speed. I was very excited and happy when I was told that I had been selected to play for Team Ontario. I dedicate my success to my family, especially my older siblings, Taylor, Mackenzie and Callin Deleary, who helped train me for the team tryouts against girls who were all one and two years older than me.”
The Canadian Box Lacrosse Nationals involved Team Ontario, as well as other provincial teams from British Columbia and Alberta in a week-long tournament. The Team Ontario Bantams finished the tournament with 6 wins and 1 loss, bringing home the gold medal and the Bantam tournament trophy. Deleary contributed 1 goal and 2 assists along the way.
Sidney hopes to continue to represent Team Ontario Girls Box Lacrosse and also the provincial Women’s Field Team as a way to receive opportunities to be recruited by NCAA Division Teams.
Submitted by Mackenzie Deleary
