The Barrie Blizzard may need to replace 59 points with the departure of Jonas Dirks and the possibility of losing Caleb Wiles to the NLL. General Manager Rob Blasdell made a big step in the right direction with selecting Connor Latimer third overall in the 2014 Canadian Lacrosse League Draft.
Latimer has been a prolific scorer at every level he has competed at. This past summer, the Whitby,ON native netted 18 goals, 26 assists for 44 points in 11 games with the Oakville Titans (OLA Sr.B).
In two seasons at Keuka College of the North Eastern Athletic Conference in the NCAA DIII, Latimer tallied 154 points(86 G,68A) in 28 games. In 2013, the lefty led all of DIII in points per game with 6.54. Before transfering to Keuka, he spent two seasons at Genesee Community College, where he was a two-time Junior College All-American.
Latimer will be reunited with head coach Brad MacArthur. McArthur was on the bench with the Green Gaels when Latimer played four seasons with the club.
“I feel that the familiarity I have with Brad will help me fit in with the offense,” said Latimer. “I’m familiar with the fast paced offense he runs. There are a bunch of guys on the team I’ve played with before and it will be nice to use the chemistry we already have. I’m sure Brad will put me in whatever role best suits and helps the team.”
In 54 games donning the green and white, Latimer found the back of the net 93 times while adding 86 helpers for an impressive 179 points. In 38 playoff games, he also netted 106 points with the Gaels.
Latimer is known for his offensive talents, but he should still be able to flourish in the transitional two way game of CLax.
“My first year of junior I played transition and I find myself on the defensive side of the floor a lot in senior,” said Latimer. “I think i’ll be able to transition into it fairly well. I’m sure the coaches and team will help me adjust as well.”
With a big frame of 6’5 and 220 lbs, Latimer still has solid foot speed and athleticism, which can help him on the back end.
Some National Lacrosse League Mock Draft’s had Latimer being drafted in the later rounds, but unfortunately for the Keuka College grad, his name was not called. Latimer was a bit disheartened, but he is excited the opportunity CLax has given.
“I was a little disappointed,” said Latimer. “But CLax will give me a chance to show what I can do in great competition. CLax will help me grow as a two-way player and help me adjust to some higher paced lacrosse. Anytime you play against skilled players like the ones in CLax, it allows you to grow as a player and improve.”
Latimer’s skill set and size should make the Green Gaels product flourish offensively and become an immediate impact player for the Blizzard. Latimer is focused on winning this year with the Blizzard, but he hopes it can advance his career in the long run.
“The ultimate goal for me and any lacrosse player is to make it to the NLL,” said Latimer. “I’m hoping CLax can help me work on my game and help me make it to the NLL.”
