Each week we will talk with a coach from around lacrosse. This week is Derek Keenan, head coach of the 3-0 Edmonton Rush.
Question: Why did the Dane Stevens trade happen? He was eligible to come off the hold out list and we just didn’t have room for him. If we were off to a slow start it may have been different but we have four Lefty O Guys all contributing and we also have Corey Small on I. R.
What has led to this quick start? It’s way too early to get too excited. This is an 18 game schedule. I like our start but we just want to keep getting better. That’s our goal every time we step on the turf.
How do you feel the rookies have performed? The rookies have been good, especially Loewen. We thought we got a pretty good player when we drafted him but he’s exceeded expectations. I love his grit. He gets his nose dirty and you need that in the NLL. Church has been good as well in his two games but I think his potential is limitless. He’s a little behind the rest because he was ill first game of the season but he’s quickly catching up and adapting to the speed of the game.
Are you impressed with what Mark Matthews has done in year two? Mark is pretty much where we thought he’d be. He continues to work on and improve his fitness and his overall game. He’s been responsible with the ball and buying into the systems. He’s one of the rare guys who is just as good without the ball in his stick as with it.
Who has stood out to you this season? Bold has been excellent and you must have solid goaltending in this league. Nik Bilic has been a real nice addition. He’s a tough kid who suits our defensive system very well. Jarrett Davis and Curtis Knight have also been excellent. They are both very responsible players who do all the little things well that help you win games. Basically, all of our players are contributing.
How do you keep improving from here? Focus each week on our opponent and every time out its all business. Practice, shoot arounds, warm ups, team meetings, whenever we are together we want to improve every time.
