By Vivian Collings
Scott Stewart, former professional lacrosse player in the National Lacrosse League, has recently moved to the County with his family and is excited to share his love for the sport in the Haliburton Highlands.
“I did a skate school this winter, and all the parents said I should start teaching lacrosse here because there aren’t any local opportunities for kids to play,” Steward said. “It’s just so fun. I loved it growing up, and for me it was an escape from the pressure and seriousness of hockey.”
Stewart started playing lacrosse at age 8 and hockey at age 3.
He played in the OHL as a young adult before shifting his focus to professional lacrosse for 12 years.
“I got drafted in the first round very young, turned it down, and then got drafted in the first round again and took it. It was such a great experience. I got to travel a lot and am so lucky to have had that opportunity.”
Having grown up in Brantford, he spent his summers playing lacrosse on the Six Nations reserve.
“The roots of the game are so important. Lacrosse is an Indigenous sport that was played long before Europeans got here. I’m grateful to have played with a local Indigenous community growing up,” he said. “The Creator’s Game is what it’s called.”
Stewart will be teaching lacrosse history at the camp.
It’ll run for six weeks from Tuesday, April 23 to Tuesday, May 28 from 6 to 7 p.m. at the AJ LaRue Arena in Haliburton.
The cost is $150 per child.
Scott’s wife Nicole is currently the chair of Razzamataz.
“We came up here and thought, if you can dream it, you can do it.”
Stewart said lacrosse is the perfect way for hockey players to condition and train during the off season.
“A lot of kids looking for that edge in hockey should consider trying it out,” he said.
There will be a free lacrosse night on Thursday, April 18 from 6 to 7 p.m. at the Haliburton Highlands Secondary School gym hosted by Scott for kids ages 8 and up to have the chance to try it out before registering.
The event is sponsored by the Minden Tim Hortons, and Bracebridge Source for Sports will be there wil lacrosse equipment available for purchase.
Running shoes, a caged helmet, and gloves are required. Sticks are provided.
For more information or to register, email laxstar8@gmail.com or call 416-735-9564.