With training camp set to begin December 1st, Darris Kilgour and the Buffalo Bandits are ready to get the new season underway. Numerous newly acquired Bandits picked up by first year GM Steve Dietrich will join draftees and free agent invites to decide the Bandits 2013 roster.
The Bandits previously held a free agent tryout camp November 10th. The camp consisted off 40 players taking place in a morning practice session followed by an afternoon scrimmage. Participants included the entire 2012 draft class, all of whom are signed heading into camp.
Out of the recent draftees, second round pick Carter Bender impressed netting 2 goals in the scrimmage. Standing out in transition were Jordan Critch (1 goal) and Dhane Smith. Both will look to continue their progression into the professional game in an effort to fill the void left with Jeremy Thompson being dealt to Edmonton.
Second rounder Hayden Smith and free agent Mitch Barnard stood out on the defensive end. Joel Matthews notched one tally in the tryout camp scrimmage, but with an already established right offensive side that now features Aaron Wilson, he will be in tough competition going into camp.
Returners remaining unsigned include Luke Wiles, a 75 point player for the Bandits in 2012. With the recent acquisition of Wilson, it appears as though Wiles may be parting ways with Buffalo after only one season. Veteran Bandit Billy Dee Smith and enforcer Brandon Francis are also currently unsigned.
Goaltender Anthony Cosmo was recently re-signed to a one year deal and will be the starter between the pipes for Buffalo. Three year Bandit Angus Goodleaf and off season acquisition Kurtis Wagar will back up Cosmo.
Check In Lacrosse We Trust for all the latest on the Buffalo Bandits and all NLL training camp updates.
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