This past Friday, the Vancouver Warriors Rocked Rogers Arena with their annual Country Night with a vibrant live band performance from Antonio Larosa Band, who kicked up the energy throughout the game. This game was one you did not want to miss. Now Vancouver has a incredible in crowd dynamics, and the players felt it and showed up throughout their game. The first three quarters were a bit slower, but regardless, our Warriors kept a tight match Against the San Diego Seals, our West Coast rivals. But even before the game, many stakes were going into it. To give a brief background, Last Season, the Vancouver Warriors lost to the San Diego Seals to secure a spot in the playoffs after fighting back to contention. This was a redemption match-up for sure, in which both teams had a point to prove. The Warriors are 3 and 1 in the NLL standings currently. Furthermore, I’ll write about some key highlights that this game had to offer that reminded me of how amazing it is to be a Weekend Warrior.
Keegan Bal: Star of the Night
Star Player Keegan Bal was absolutely on fire with 6 points scored throughout the game, sending the Arena into a frenzy during the 4th quarter of this game. He’s a significant asset to this talented group and watching him play is something you should not miss. His strive and truculence that he brings into the box are incredible. Fans were getting a bit rigged in their seats regarding halftime, desiring the unknown of whether the Warriors would produce a win. Bal briefly shares Coach Curt’s message for them (3-2): “Just continue… continue on the process, don’t change the way we play”. Bal also shared that San Diego had a week off, so the teams’ endurances were on different ends, and the Warriors had to keep their head up and continue with their undeniable diligence. Bal further commented on the opportunity of redemption within this game, expressing, “We just wanted to win, every game we just want to win,” As simple as it sounds, it’s true. If you were a viewer of that game, you could see the continuous drive and effort from the team. Bal gave some love to their young goalie, who also came through in the final minutes of this game.
Aden Walsh: Rising to the Occasion
Young Goalie Aden Walsh was in the starting lineup for Fridays match and with a couple of slip up goals his performance was a must see in the Warriors times of need during the 4th quarter. Walsh gave some major props to team leader Bal commenting on his performance of the night “I was blown away on the other end of the floor there… even when he has a slow start like that, we know he’s gonna pick it up just like he did tonight.”. Walsh was also asked as being a younger player in this league whether he’s feeling the pressure and here’s what he had to say about that, “No… each game comes with more experience you get more comfortable out there so it’s definitely easier [as] each game goes on… definitely feeling more confident”. This is such a common question that is in young players ears constantly whether you’re in the NBA, the NFL or majorly the NHL around here. And as a young sports viewer/fan the proof is in the pudding throughout last season entering this one Walsh’s performance has only gotten better and better and I hope we get to see him continue moving up. And speaking of shining moments when the Warriors needed it the most in the last minutes of the game, he makes a beautiful save to shut that door on San Diego and the crowd went buck wild if were keeping it country themed. It’s moments like those that really bring a team and crowd together wrapping us all into one. Overall Walsh’s continuous efforts in pushing this team forward has been great to watch and something you would enjoy seeing as well.
Coach Curt: Building Resilience and Belief
Furthermore, not only is he a leader on the floor but off it. We got to chat with Coach Curt after the game and he touched on the team’s resilience throughout the game. With the warriors outstanding come back in the game Coach says, “sports is 90% mental and i think that’s a big part for us is mentally [they] where strong”. Which was really on the nose on how this game went through truly. The fight those players had on Friday was something truly special. He was even asked about the upcoming weekends they have ahead of them, and he touched on how this game will help them forward into the next “It’ll be a battle, but it puts us in a good position… we learned a lot of good lessons we can take away into the next.” And something that really stuck out to be the phrase “belief” it’s a term I’ve heard a lot going to these games and being a part of the post games and Coach Curt dove into the meaning of it and how it’s present in the locker room. “It’s high…the guys believe in each other…when you see results and you get tangible results from things you talk about the belief becomes even more…the biggest thing is believing in each other”. The amount of admiration that as a fan you can have for that is incredible because it really gives you a sense that this team is just more than face value but there’s a community within and an incredible dynamic between each player. And how all of that comes together to make one really makes this hometown team shine among the rest. Being led by an admirable coach as well ties everything together as well and so it was great to come back and hear what Coach had to say after that victory.
The Weekend Warrior Experience
Being part of a Warriors game is more than just watching lacrosse—it’s an experience. The vibrant atmosphere of Rogers Arena, amplified by the themed night and the crowd’s enthusiasm, creates a sense of community. From fans donning Western gear to kids proudly holding their posters, every detail contributes to the magic.
This sense of connection is why becoming a “Weekend Warrior” is so special. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or a newcomer to the sport, attending a Warriors game offers something for everyone. The energy, the camaraderie, and the thrill of watching a team give their all make it a must-see event.
Final Thoughts
The Vancouver Warriors’ Country Night was a testament to the team’s resilience, skill, and the incredible support of their fans. From Keegan Bal’s standout performance to Aden Walsh’s game-saving heroics and Coach Curt’s inspiring leadership, every element came together to create an unforgettable evening.
So, whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking for a fun night out, consider joining the Warriors at Rogers Arena. You’ll not only witness top-tier lacrosse but also become part of a community that celebrates the spirit of competition and camaraderie. Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic of Warriors weekends—it’s more than a game; it’s a celebration.