The relaxing of COVID-19 rules coming in July has allowed the Comox Valley Lacrosse Association to plan for a season ending tournament for its U16 team. This means the Comox Valley Lacrosse Association can not only hold that season-ending tournament, but there is also potential to have a few fans in the stands. Only time will tell what the new COVID-19 protocols might allow.
“This is just simply amazing,” says president Geoff Garbutt. “Last year we were shut down completely. This year at least we could have the kids practising which has just recently led to the opening of exhibition games. This means everything to our U16 players and their families. For most, in the U16 age group, it’s their last opportunity to play minor lacrosse and the last opportunity for parents and family to watch them play. It is therefore our goal to salvage their last season by enabling them to play one last tournament and end their experience with minor lacrosse on a high note!”
Having a local tournament will also allow the Comox Valley Lacrosse Association to take the opportunity to recognize the U16 and bantam teams that won championships during the 2018 and 2019 seasons.
“We were unable to do so because of COVID impacts that wiped out our 2020 season,” said Diane Arndt of the CVLA, in a press release. “These three banners from our U16 and Bantam teams represent hard work and the commitment that these young athletes, coaches and managers have put in over the past seasons. Our association is proud to have the opportunity to recognize the success in past seasons and it shows that our commitment to skill development which has created an environment that supports youth development and physical fitness.”
The CVLA will be fundraising through sales of advertising in the tournament brochure. The tournament will be held July 16-18, 2021 at the Comox Valley Sports Centre.
The CVLA thanks all the parents, volunteers and sponsors that have contributed to Comox Valley Wild Lacrosse over the years and we are really looking forward to the competition and to welcome teams from across Vancouver Island to the Valley.
For more information or to purchase advertising call tournament organizers: Diane Arndt (250-338-3763) or Lisa Domae (250-218-2921).