The Vancouver Stealth opens up their 2015 training camp this Saturday November 22nd. When the team returns to Langley Events Center Fieldhouse there will be a different look to the roster after last years disappointing season. Season ticket holders will get the opportunity for direct access to witness the first day of camp.
The offense for the Stealth did not see too many players traded, or leave to free agency. While the defense saw a ton of action on the trading block or lost to free agency. There is however quite a few rookies and acquisitions that were signed during the off-season, and after draft day that will be fighting for one of the coveted roster spots. Many veterans on the roster still need to prove their worth, as the Stealth are no strangers to releasing those who come to camp out of shape, or just get out hustled by a new player or up and comer. In the past few years we have seen guys like Dean Hill and Eric Martin dropped from the roster after having a rather successful season the year before. This proves that no one is safe, not even the savvy vets in Rhys Duch or Lewis Ratcliff.
Players To Watch
Tyler Hass: The 6’6” 210lb righty was brought on through the Mike Grimes trade to bolster the team’s abysmal transition game. Hass along with Tyler Garrison should give the team the spark they need to improve this facet of the team’s game.
Tyler Digby: How will the 6’3” 230lb sophomore season with the squad impact the offense? Will he come back strong as ever; ready to help open things up with his physical play for his fellow right side teammate and NLL All Star Rhys Duch?
Lewis Ratcliff: After seeing his first healthy scratch in his NLL career coming last season, how will he respond to the youth movement on the left side of the offense? Will Lewis comeback and rise as a leader, or will he fall to the pressure of having to produce? Can Lewis silence his critics and share the ball with newly acquired Johnny Powless.
Johnny Powless: Brought in through the draft day trade, Powless has high expectations from both the Stealth fans and front office. Can Johnny prove the elite status that is already bestowed upon him, and support the team back to the Champions Cup final? How will the chemistry with a new set of players, set him up for success, or failure?
These are just a few of the dynamics, along with a new head coach that the Vancouver Stealth is going to have to overcome and embrace starting this Saturday. The coaching staff and President/GM Doug Locker have done their part to get the right players on the roster to best suite them for success. It is now up to all the players, new and old to come together, compete, and execute. The execution is the one aspect they failed as a team to accomplish last year.
Good thing for the Stealth is they have the veteran leadership, which still feels the sting from last year’s effort. They will use this as motivation to drive the team in the right direction. Non season ticket holders can catch the action this Sunday the 23rd at the Langley Events Center Fieldhouse from 9:00-11:00 a.m. You can still get your season tickets or game packs at www.SteathLax.com
