Bluenose Travels to New England
A select group of Nova Scotia's most promising young female lacrosse players is heading south of the border to make their mark. The newly formed Bluenose U17 travel team is preparing for a trip to Devens, Massachusetts, this fall to compete in the highly respected New England Big Chill Tournament, a move designed to elevate their game and open doors to future opportunities.
The New England Big Chill is a major event on the US youth lacrosse circuit, attracting dozens of high-level club teams and a significant number of scouts from NCAA Division II and III colleges. For the Bluenose girls, this tournament represents more than just a series of games; it's a chance to immerse themselves in a fiercely competitive environment, test their abilities against some of the top U17 talent in the northeastern United States, and showcase their skills on a prominent stage.
“This is a massive opportunity for our players,” said the team’s head coach, a veteran of the local lacrosse scene. “The speed and skill level at these US tournaments are incredibly high. Our goal is to challenge our athletes, push them out of their comfort zone, and accelerate their development. The experience they will gain in a single weekend is invaluable.”
The decision to attend the tournament is a strategic one, aimed at providing the players with exposure they simply cannot get at home. While the local Bluenose Field Lacrosse league provides a strong foundation, the sheer depth of talent and the intensity of the American club system offer a different level of competition. This experience is crucial for players who harbour ambitions of playing at the university level.
One of the team's midfielders, who has been with the Bluenose program for five years, spoke about the excitement and anticipation among the players. “We’re all so excited and a little nervous, but in a good way,” she said. “We know it will be tough, but we’ve been training hard. It’s a chance to see how we measure up and to play in front of college coaches, which is a dream for many of us.”
Beyond the on-field benefits, the trip is a significant personal growth opportunity. Travelling as a team fosters independence, builds strong bonds, and creates lasting memories. The players will not only be representing their club but also the growing lacrosse community in Nova Scotia.
The journey to the New England Big Chill marks a significant step forward for the Bluenose program, demonstrating a commitment to providing its athletes with every possible opportunity to succeed. As they prepare to face off against their American counterparts, the Bluenose girls are not just chasing wins; they are chasing experience, exposure, and the chance to prove that Nova Scotian talent can compete with the best.
