Illegal Sticks & Big Picks
Hey. I'm Parker Bockshark, and this is Crease Monsters, the podcast where we talk all things lacrosse, talk epic highlights, year reviews, game predictions, and, of course, some special guests. Whether you're stringing up a new pocket, gearing up for game day, or just chilling between practices, this is your go to spot for all things lacrosse. And if you haven't already, hit that follow button wherever you're listening, and let's get into it.
Parker Bottcher:Welcome back. Lots going on in the lacrosse world this week. Anello draft shakeups, man cut fireworks, and even some controversy. Get ready because we're packing in a lot into today's episode. Let's start with the National Lacrosse League draft because, wow, this year's entry draft was historic.
Parker Bottcher:Toronto Rock walked away with the first three picks. Yep. One, two, and three. At number one, CJ Kirst. He's got that explosive offense style that could energize the Rocks attack right away.
Parker Bottcher:Tattooed Thai English Offencetransition out of UNC in Oakville Rock, a versatile player with two way IQ. And at number three, Gwen Hilts, lefty forward from Syracuse and Peterborough. Silky hands, high lacrosse IQ. The Rock didn't trade those picks, they were doubling down or building the young core. This could be redefining their future.
Parker Bottcher:Those are your NLL headlines. Keep your eye on Toronto Rock's preseason camps. The rookies transitions to the pro box game will be one of their biggest stories to watch. Alright, gearheads. Time for a review.
Parker Bottcher:This week's the loading offense shaft. I've been using it for four months, and honestly, I love everything about it. It's grippy but not sticky. You can slide your hands smoothly for quick dodges. It's super strong.
Parker Bottcher:It absorbs checks, and it feels perfect in your hands. I've been running it with the loading win hit. Spoiler alert, I'll review that in a future episode. Now I'll admit, I'm partial to loading products. I love what they're doing.
Parker Bottcher:But even setting that up, this shaft is my favorite so far. If you're an offensive player looking for a premium performance, this one is worth every penny. Now let's talk Man Cup. The Bellies and the Chiefs series have been eventful. Here's where we stand.
Parker Bottcher:In game one, Bellies took it in OT eleven-eight. In game two, Bellies again ten-six. In game three, the Chiefs win nineteen-nine. In game four, she's tied with the series two two with the ten three win. Five.
Parker Bottcher:Belly's answered, winning fifteen twelve. That puts New Westminster up. And remember, three games in three days is a brutal schedule. At this level, fatigue is real. Now controversy.
Parker Bottcher:In game four, the Chiefs were hit with an illegal helmet and a legal stick call. And let's not forget, frankly, you know, the Bellisgoi had a similar stick call back in the Western Finals against the Adneks. The big question, how are we running into stick issues or equipment this deep into playoffs? These calls didn't affect the outcome, the Chiefs still came out on top. But moments like this can rattle a bench.
Parker Bottcher:Consistency and transparency are key late series enforcement shouldn't feel like a curveball. Also, with a grueling schedule, three games in three days, mistakes are more likely players and staff stretched thin and little details can slip. For anyone newer to box lacrosse quick refresher. An illegal stick could be pocket depth, shooting string placement, head width, and anything outside the regulations. Penalty is usually a non releasable minor and the stick is held out of play.
Parker Bottcher:A legal helmet could involve certification fit, straps, or unauthorized modification. Safety is priority. Teams can request inspections or refs can call checks for if something looks off. It's part of keeping the game fair and safe. But when it pops up late in the championships, it sparks a little debate.
Parker Bottcher:Field fans, don't forget about the PLL finals coming up September 14. I'm calling New York takes over Denver. Why? Just look at this lineup. Jeff T, Connor Schellenberger, Trevor Baptiste, Liam Entenmann, and Reed Byron absolute killers on both ends.
Parker Bottcher:Denver is strong, but New York is a mix of offense, firepower, and face off dominance. I can't wait to watch this one. In the minor lacrosse world, tryouts are ongoing across many associations. Best of luck to all the young players. I hope everyone lands where they're hoping to play this season.
Parker Bottcher:Keep grinding. You'll never know who's watching. Coming up, Man Cup game six. Watch how fatigue, penalties, and goys play factor in. Toronto Rock Training Camp.
Parker Bottcher:Keep an eye on those three top draft picks, the PLL Championships, and any late offseason NLL trades as teams adjust rosters post draft. That's it for today. We covered the gear, the draft, the cup, the controversies. Thanks for hanging out. Stay sharp.
Parker Bottcher:Stay legal. As always, protect the crease. See you next
Parker Bottcher:time. Alright. That's it for this episode. Thanks for hanging out. And if you liked this episode, hit that follow button so you don't miss what's coming out next.
Parker Bottcher:You can catch extra clips, review reviews, and more content on Instagram, YouTube, and just search at Crease Monsters. Until next time, share it, save it, string it up. We are just getting started.
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