A Kimberley teenager has made it to the Country’s top minor lacrosse competition in Halifax.
The Minor Nationals sees Canada’s top minor lacrosse players in a week of high-level competition and championship moments.
Zaiden Kieley is 14-years-old and plays for the Cranbrook Blackwolves in the B-league.
“I’ve played for six years, but I’ve been a goalie for five,” said Zaiden Kieley.
To make it to the Minor Nationals, players from British Columbia had to compete in District tryouts before advancing to Provincial tryouts.
In April, Zaiden went to Armstrong for the District tryouts, where there were five goalies from all over the interior.
He advanced to provincial tryouts at Langley in May. Seven goalies competed, with two being chosen for the B.C. team, which included Zaiden.
“He’s one of four in the last 15 years that has actually made it from our area,” said Daris Kieley, Zaiden’s mother.
Zaiden plays for the Cranbrook Blackwolves in the B league, where competition differs from larger centres such as Vancouver, which have A-league programs.
“So, the fact that he can make it from a B-level to an A team is a huge accomplishment,” adds Daris.
It’s an exciting time for the family, but it’s also a lot of commitment from Zaiden and his mother to get to this level.
Travelling to Armstrong, Langley, and later to Halifax costs money, including gas and hotels.
Daris has organized a bottle drop off to fundraise to help cover costs.
Donations will be accepted until the end of July. You can drop-off at 1212 16 Ave South, Cranbrook.
(Image Credit Daris Kieley and Team BC – Zaiden Kieley -Facebook)
Daris says she has put in a lot of time to support her son’s passion, including long drives, videotaping his games and taking time off work.
“It’s a lot of stuff to do, but at the same time, if he’s passionate about it, I’ll continue to do it,” Daris said.
Zaiden’s commitment shows in the extra work he puts in away from the game, including reviewing his own game tape and watching goalie videos online to sharpen his skills.
“It’s a testament to his passion for the game and the homework that he does at home,” adds Daris.
“He takes a lot of pride in getting better and learning the game. So, it’s a huge testament to the time that he’s put in.”
But what’s this humble teenager’s goal at only 14?
“I want to make it to junior A, because that’s the step before the highest level,” said Zaiden.
“But the highest level possible is always cool. And just play for as long as I can.”
The Minor Nationals will be held in Halifax, Nova Scotia, from August 11 to August 15.
To learn more about the bottle drop off, visit Team BC – Zaiden Kieley Facebook page.
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