Lacrosse develops hockey skills, young player finds

The Stealth Bantams launched their pursuit of GSLA (Greater Sudbury Lacrosse Association) house league playoff glory Tuesday evening in Coniston, jumping out to a 5-0 lead, eventually tripling the Rush Bantams 6-2.

Giordano Biondi and Sebastien Chartrand scored two goals apiece for the winners, with Andrew Langley and Jack Heaphy adding one each.

Ethan Teeter and Ty Parsons replied in a losing cause, as the Rush were forced to insert sniper Aidan Teeterin net, with their regular goaltender unavailable for the encounter.

An established "AAA" hockey player locally, Biondi is making is first foray into the world of lacrosse this summer, an endeavour that he has very much enjoyed.

"I like the speed of it," said Biondi. "You don't find that many sports, on your feet, that are always running, so fast-paced."

Besides, like many of his teammates and opponents, the 12-year-old would very much like to transition directly from lacrosse to hockey in time for the fall. "You learn to protect the ball, and that would help you out with stickhandling," said Biondi.

"And if you're going into bantam (hockey), which I am, the body contact will help you out."

While he noted that cradling the ball was a skill he picked up with relative ease, his shooting and passing acumen lagged just a little behind out of the gate.

"You have to learn proper form," Biondi stated. "If you don't use proper form, the ball could go anywhere. If you don't follow through properly, the ball could go high, or sideways."

GSLA playoff action will continue right through this week, with action at both Garson and Coniston Arenas throughout both Saturday and Sunday.