Akwesasne Attack Grade 5/6

Submitted by Megan Conners

On Saturday July 16, the boys Akwesasne Attack grade 5/6 traveled to Rochester for their tournament. The team consisted of 9 players with head coach, Cameron Conners and assistant coach, Jarrod Murray having faith in the boys to do well.

They began Friday with a swim at the hotel and an early sleep. We all arrived at the Aquinas Institute at 9:15 and had the opportunity to see the Rochester Rattlers practice before we played. As we observed other team's – almost all teams had no less than 17 players, but The Akwesasne Attack never feeling intimidated. With our first 10:00 start, the boys played well passing and shooting as they were taught all season. Getting the win 12-8 over Irondequoit all felt great, especially knowing we had only one sub.

All teams then gathered on the stadium turf to hear tips and advice from the Rochester Rattlers' coach. The 2nd game was on the turf and that may have been intimidating for the boys along with the size of the Camillus Wild because they couldn't stop the passing game of that team. The boys lost that game 5-15. After a short break the boys gathered again to play Fairport. All players got their "game" back winning it 11-3.

As our boys played Fairport Unity, a crowd gathered to watch our small team winning again. We could hear other people talking about how good they were doing and how we didn't have a full bench. Soon some came over and asked where we were from. This made the fourth game, and third win in the books with a score of 12-4.

Soon after the coaches received word we made it to the championship game against Camillus Wild. They were all very tired but determined to play their best. As the first half ended we were down to 8 players and needed to cheer on the boys to finish strong as they put a few more goals into the net. The boys played their hearts out all day showing how much they all love the game. That game was actually closer, losing 8-14.

Coming in second place still made us all proud especially with the odds not in their favor. They relied on each other and played hard right to the end. As we left that game other coaches approached us and mentioned they were rooting for us.

It was the boys turn to relax and watch Rattlers' play lacrosse featuring our hometown favorite, Ty Thompson as they won over the Charlotte Hounds. The Akwesasne Attack received discount tickets and a meet and greet after the game. The boys had a photo and autograph session with the pro players and were able to shoot on their goalie, John Galloway. Some even scored on him!

We want to thank the boys for giving all they had and the parents/family for making the trip. The 9 great players are Andyn Bero, Carsten Mitchell, Corbin Murray, Crayton Cree, Kade Herne, Sebastien Laughing, Shakohentehtha Elijah, Tehanerahtaiens Barnes and Tehoronhiathe. Very proud of you all !!