Saturday night fans packed the LEC to watch the Vancouver Stealth and Toronto Rock clash in what would give the victor a 2-0 start on the 2015 season. While the fans came for the game, they were part of something more; after the pre-game introductions took place Vancouver paid tribute to both Terry Sanderson and Chris Hall.
Terry who started his NLL coaching career with the Albany Attack, who are now the Vancouver Stealth many years later, compiled a successful coaching career, and eventually became the GM of the Toronto Rock. A staple and beloved member of the organization, Terry will forever be remembered by his players and fans, not just for the success he had on the field, but for who he was off the field.
When the tribute to the great Chris Hall started on the arena’s big screen there was hardly a dry eye in the house. In a brief chronicle of his coaching career from Kaleb Toth, Curtis Hodgson, and team owner Denise Watkins, fans were once again reminded of the man that was more than just a coach to the franchise, and the lacrosse world. Chris was as genuine as they come, always willing and open to talk shop or help players and coaches develop their skills. As I looked up at the C.H. banner hanging in the arena I couldn’t help reminiscing on the short time I had gotten the pleasure of knowing him and the help he had given me as a young coach in Washington.
The two teams took the turf and one walked away with the W. The atmosphere was electric as the Stealth started out on fire, going on a 3-0 run. The lead would be short-lived, as Toronto bullied their way back for a 10-6 halftime lead. The second half magic was not there for Vancouver this weekend as they only tallied five more goals the rest of the way out. Toronto scored just as many in each quarter for the 20-11 win.
Notable performances from Rhys Duch and the early transition game for the Stealth still gave fans something to look forward to the rest of the way out. The team seems to still be trying to figure out some chemistry with each other on the offensive end. There is no doubt amongst the players that with the roster talent and coaching staff that they will turn things around sooner than later.
In his return back to Vancouver since his free agent signing with Toronto forward Brett Hickey put on a show, netting three goals and three assists for his six-point performance. The performance of the night came from none other than Josh Sanderson—his four goals and 10 assists on the night were beyond amazing. Putting an exclamation point on a night filled with remembrance and honor of some of the sports greatest contributors.
Vancouver will be back in action this coming Saturday, Jan. 17 at the LEC as they face off against the East Division Buffalo Bandits. Game time is 7:00 pm.
