That’s a Big Group

A whole posse of Bandits players dotted the field Saturday night in St. Catharines as the team prepared for their first preseason game against the Las Vegas Desert Dogs.

So many were roaming around vying for a shot on goal that they had to put out more balls so that everyone could get a touch on their stick.

However, everyone in the Bandits camp got a chance in the game, as the coaching staff divided the roster so that some played in the first half and some in the second.

The club prevailed 14-10, with veteran Kyle Buchanan, who played the entire game, scoring six goals. Yes, the vets looked good and feel ready for their first game, December 7 in Rochester against the Knighthawks.

“I think we are ready, and it’s amazing to see us keep building as a team, said Dhane Smith, coming off his seventh 100-plus point season. “I think JT and Chugger have done a great job easing us into camp, bringing things we did last year, and tuning a few new things up.”

Put me in, coach!

Like previous preseason encounters, Smith lobbies to play every game and generally does, but after a plea, he was finished after the first half.

“Yeah, I wanted to play all game, but unfortunately, we have high numbers (players in camp), but these kids in camp deserve a chance as well. It was good to get a half in.

“It’s tough being that young and coming into camp. I remember my first camp. I was nervous, but they are here for a reason, being drafted or traded here.”

Good Decisions, Tough Decisions

Bandits coach John Tavares has been looking for players who make good decisions, whether on offense, defense, or transition. But on the other end of the spectrum, he has tough decisions to make with his overloaded roster.

“Guys come out and give their heart and soul to making the team, but unfortunately, you have to let them go,” said Tavares. “Sometimes, you make the wrong decision, but you must live with it and hope for the best for them.

“It’s hard when you have a veteran squad like us. These guys have longer leashes than someone trying to prove himself, which makes things difficult for the coaching staff.”

Where Did Everybody Go?

A smaller roster of Bandits players will practice this week and prepare for their second preseason game on Saturday night against Georgia on the turf of the Iroquois Lacrosse Arena.

“We’ve got to start focusing on the guys we will keep. No offense to those leaving, but it takes more time and attention to coach more people,” Tavares said.

“We want guys used to our system getting more reps, but I want primarily vets to play in the game Saturday against Georgia. Then we have a bye week on the first weekend of the season, so that’s more reason to get the vets in.”

Waiting in the Wings

While the greatest NLL goaltender of all time, Matt Vinc, will command full playing time again this season, second-year netminder Evan Constantopoulos played the second half of last Saturday’s game, making some solid saves and coming off summer playing time with a .837 save percentage with the Oakville Buzz.

“Oh, most definitely, I got more shots and plenty of practicing, which helps my confidence,” said the 6’5, 210-pounder.

“I thought he played well. I like how he reacted Saturday, and he’s coming in with a lot more confidence this year,” noted Tavares.

House to Half

This is the time of training camp when Bandits are looking for an audience. They played in front of a great crowd Saturday night in the beautiful Meridian Centre, many of whom were visitors from Banditland who proudly wore their colors.

Banditland will be roadworthy, with games in Rochester and Ottawa before the emotional, banner-raising home opener on December 28^.