Jr. Bandits BLL Coaches Emphasize Fundamentals as Season Heats Up

The Jr. Bandits BLL is kicking into high gear as teams wrap up their second week of practices and prepare to dive into the heart of the season. With coaches like Tehoka Nanticoke, Ian MacKay, Ethan O’Connor, and Zack Belter setting the tone—each emphasizing fundamentals, effort, and enjoyment of the game—the league’s young athletes are sharpening their skills and learning what it takes to compete. From battling for loose balls to mastering basic box lacrosse concepts, players are gearing up to bring all that work into fast, exciting game action.

Tehoka Nanticoke, coach of the 5/6 Grade Stampede and 7/8 Grade Pythons, brings nonstop energy to his teams, pushing them to get better every time they hit the floor. “Teaching fundamentals—from passing and catching to cradling the ball and learning basic box lacrosse concepts—will help these kids succeed in the game,” said Nanticoke. “We want to see players battling for loose balls in the corner, cutters flying through the middle on offense, and on defense, forcing guys wide and protecting the house.” That commitment to the basics has powered Nanticoke’s teams to consistent success in the league.

Coach Ian MacKay, who leads the 5/6 Grade Rapids and the 7/8 Grade Glaciers, stresses that development shouldn’t stop when practice ends. “Practicing away from the arena may be just as beneficial to your development as a structured team practice is, especially when you're younger,” said MacKay. “Having your stick in your hands—playing wall ball, cradling around the house, dodging your dog—those things help you become a more creative player. You're only as good as your stick is, so if you can't pass, catch, or pick up ground balls, the game will be very difficult for you.”

Ethan O’Connor, coach of the 5/6 Division Buffaloes, echoed that focus on fundamentals and fun as his group continues to grow together early in the season. “I believe developing fundamentals not only lets young players grow as a lacrosse athlete, but it's the cornerstone for them enjoying the game,” said O’Connor. “Even though the season is only a few weeks old, their commitment to developing fundamentals is very evident. I'm looking forward to having more fun with this group as the winter season continues.”

Zack Belter, coach of the 5/6 Blizzard, matches that competitive fire with his own high-intensity approach. He expects his players to respect the game, respect one another, and hold themselves accountable for the effort they bring each session. “I think our team is doing a great job of sharing the ball and playing as a team,” said Belter. “We’re going to keep pushing to attack pressure and win those loose ball battles.”

With the second round of team practices officially in the books, excitement is building. Now it’s time for teams to take everything they’ve worked on—inside and outside the arena—and put it into action as they battle toward a Jr. Bandits BLL Championship.