We can all agree that getting a promotion is a good thing. But when you step into your new role, you have to prove that you deserve it. That’s the challenge the Saskatchewan SWAT lacrosse team is currently facing.
The SWAT went from being Junior “B” champions, to the new kids on the block in Junior “A,” over the course of a few short months. Saskatchewan’s players were excited about moving up a division, but they didn’t have a clue as to how big of a jump the level of competition would be.
“I had no idea,” said SWAT transition player Baeley Malkoske.
“I thought in my abilities that I could definitely compete at that level, but I had no idea.”
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The SWAT have lost both of their games so far this season, not exactly a fairytale start to the team’s Junior “A”campaign, but Saskatchewan’s players are actually feeling good about themselves. They didn’t get blown out in either of their losses. In fact, Saskatchewan’s first defeat of the season came in overtime.
It’s a long season, but the SWAT are determined to earn the respect of their opponent’s by the end of the campaign.
“We’re the underdogs,” said Malkoske. “I bet there is a lot of speculation that we couldn’t make it, but I want to prove those people wrong.”
And the best way to do that, is by winning games. The SWAT will fight to secure their first victory of the season on Saturday in Saskatchewan’s home opener.
Game time starts at 8:30 p.m. CT at Gordie Howe Kinsmen Arena.