From city to city and community to community, lacrosse is typically a regional game, but Barrie, which has a long history in the sport, had one of its youth teams go all the way to the top this summer.
The Barrie Bombers novice No. 1 team, or the “boys in blue” as Mayor Jeff Lehman referred to them, was recognized by city council Monday night for winning their age group at the Ontario Lacrosse Festival, which was held in early August at Iroquois Sports Arena in Whitby.
“We are recognizing them tonight for the remarkable achievement of a gold-medal win at the Ontario Lacrosse Association’s 50th annual festival,” Lehman said.
Head coach Todd King thanked council for the honour of coming to city hall with his team.
“The boys behind me played outstanding this season,” he said. “They played hard.
“It’s been such a great opportunity to coach this group and now we’re standing in front of city council,” King added. “I can’t wait for Christmas, because the year just keeps on getting better.”
Facing the Stouffville Thunder with the provincial title on the line, Barrie trailed by a goal in the final frame. The Bombers tied the game with less than four minutes remaining and went on to win, 5-4.
Minor lacrosse in Barrie continues to grow and “is becoming a better sport every year,” King said. “With the men behind me, hopefully I can do this every year.”
As parents and extended family snapped away taking pictures, Lehman presented each member of the team with a certificate from the city.
