Local player ‘sticks’ with Team Ontario

Brett Handsor to compete with provincial squad at nationals

BRETT HANDSOR.

HUNTSVILLE - Brett Handsor, like many 12-year-olds, is a person of few words when you first stick a microphone in his face.
How has the season gone so far with the local Hawks team?
“Good. Probably lost one game.”
Would you say you are more of an offensive or defensive player?
“Two way.”
Are you more of a physical player or a finesse player?
“Physical.”
Instead of responding with a series of the old tried-but true sports clichés, the Huntsville lacrosse player would rather let his stick do the talking for him.
So far this year, it has spoken volumes for its owner.
Handsor, one of the reasons for the good start by the Huntsville Peewee Hawks, is also a member of another prestigious squad. This summer, the Grade 6 student from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Huntsville will suit up along with other provincial players for Team Ontario, as they vie for the national championship in Whitby, from Aug. 4 to 11.
Handsor, who has played both box and field lacrosse for the Huntsville minor lacrosse program, made the Ontario team after three gruelling tryouts last May. He learned of his selection to the team about one week after the last tryout, held in Whitby.
This was his second attempt at making the Ontario team, having missed the cut last year.
When asked why he enjoys the sport so much, the quiet Huntsville player had simple, but short answers.
“I just like the game … the checking, the offence, the defence.”
How did you learn about your selection to the Ontario team?
“Phone call.”
But as the interview rolls along, it is hard for the youngster to hide his passion for the game, especially as he talks about making the provincial squad. He credits his new-found speed as perhaps the main reason for his inclusion on the team.
“I tried out last year for the team and didn’t make it, so I wanted to go back again this year and try and make it. I was smaller last year, and there were better kids there last year, and I was only a first-year peewee. This year, I got better with my skills and I also got bigger and faster.”
Handsor said he will be practicing with his Team Ontario mates from time-to-time, while still playing with his Huntsville peewee team in hopes of bringing an Ontario Lacrosse Association championship banner home this year.

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