Warriors kick off competition

The Kanehsatake Warriors played their first competitive games this week, putting to the test whether weekly training sessions during the postseason paid off.

On May 10, Kanehsatake Warriors U11, U13, and U15 teams played in a lacrosse jamboree against the West Island Vikings at the Kirkland Arena.

Kyle Atkwiroton Canatonquin, who coaches the U15 team, said the team’s year-round practices have made a difference.

“We were renting out the sports complex in Saint Eustache,” said Canatonquin. “We were renting out there for all year long, and all the hard work is starting to show off.”

The Warriors U15 team beat the Vikings U15 team 4-0, with Ryder Etienne scoring once and Kanen’tó:ton Etienne scoring a hat trick.

“We were all scared, because it was our first game. We’re all nervous. We just went out there and played,” said Etienne.

“It’s exciting, first goal, second goal, third goal - just exciting.”

Etienne, who has played lacrosse since he was seven years old, said he noticed how weekly practices during the last few months have improved his skills in playing both defense and offense.

“I wasn’t as good last year,” said Etienne. “I just kept practicing every Monday - my speed went higher, my skills were better.”

The Warriors U13 also beat the Vikings, while the U11 team came away with a tie.

“For a lot of them it’s their first game, their first-ever year playing lacrosse, so it’s a good learning experience,” said Canatonquin.

“I’m really happy that they were able to come out on top at least two out of the three games they played on their first weekend.”

Two minor lacrosse Warriors’ teams also played this past week, with the U9 and U11 teams playing their first game of the season on Wednesday night.

The Warriors U11 lost their game 2-1 against the Terrebonne Mustangs in the Mascouche Arena, while the U9 were defeated 12-9 by the Mustangs, but both Warriors teams gained the experience of playing competitively for the first time.

“It’s our first year, so they’re still getting used to how the game is played and stuff like that. So not a bad loss, but it was a tough game.”

Harlan Nelson, who plays both offense and defense on the U9 team, said he felt the games were of medium difficulty for the team.

Wattsiserènhen Etienne, who plays goalie for the team, said the game went well overall, but there are some learning curves.

“It was good, and kind of a struggle to block all those shots,” said Wattsiserènhen.

Overall, Canatonquin is hopeful for the season ahead.

“I’d like to say good luck to all teams in the season and hope they have a good season,” said Canatonquin.

[email protected]

Hadassah Alencar, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter