The Penticton Heat U18 field lacrosse team is becoming a power house.
The Heat improved to 6-0 in the Interior Field Lacrosse Conference following another perfect Sunday in which they defeated Kamloops 14-7 and North Okanagan 15-4.
“We have got a talented group that works hard to improve their game knowledge and game execution,” said coach Dan Chetner.
Heading into those games, Penticton outscored its opposition 63-7.
Chetner said his players executed what they worked on in practice to give themselves a chance for success. Chetner said Josh Dubrett, who scored three goals over the weekend, plays with a lot of intensity and effort. Jayden Carey, a rookie to the sport, is working hard to learn to play the goalie position. Chetner said he is doing a great job.
“Those two have been impressive,” he said.
As the season progresses, Penticton will have to push themselves to get better.
“I think our development is hampered somewhat by the lack of competition,” said Chetner. “I wish sometimes our practices were seen as a good opportunity to compete against a competitive opposition. That’s the opportunity to test our skills and test our resolve when the going gets tough.”
Penticton will have to wait until later in the season to face stronger teams as they plan to travel for tournaments in November and December.
Their ultimate goal is to medal at provincials. As things stand, Chetner said the big challenge is to develop their game. They will continue to work on individual and team skills. Chetner will have his group zeroed in on remaining at the top of their game.
Against Kamloops, Penticton received three-goal performances by Brendan Craig and Beau Chetner, who also added an assist. Chace Moog scored twice, while Dubrett, Kale Lawrence, Aidan Warren, Nash Moog, Austin Swanson and Peyton Avigdor, each scored once. In the 10-5 win, Lawrence enjoyed a four-goal performance, while Dubrett, Nash Moog and Craig each scored twice and added an assist. Ramage and Beau each set up a goal.
There is no league action this weekend. On Oct. 16 teams will play in Vernon again. Penticton will host league play on Oct. 30. In U11 and U15 divisions, Penticton is winless in six games.