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Merrill expects the Nationals to be a top team in 2009 |
“Canadian lacrosse fans are extremely passionate about the sport and the market has proven it can support and embrace professional lacrosse,” Merrill said of the Canadian fan base.“Canada is seen primarily as a box lacrosse country, but adding an MLL franchise will obviously contribute to the expansion of the field game in Canada and ultimately broaden the scope of MLL fans.”
On a roster that includes some of the MLL’s top players, Merrill said that he is excited to be part of what he thinks will be one of the most competitive teams in the league.
“With the core group of players returning from the Rochester team and with the recent additions made through the realignment,” Merrill said, “I think it will be a realistic expectation for us to compete for a MLL championship right away. I think for an expansion franchise, that is an exciting prospect.”
Another exciting prospect for the Canadian players is the impact the new team could have on the youth of Canada. Merrick Thomsom, former New Jersey Pride player, said that he is most interested in encouraging young Canadian players to take advantage of the opportunities lacrosse has to offer.
“This Toronto team is going to provide an opportunity for many young players to watch the best field lacrosse in the world, which will give these kids more motivation to work hard to earn a scholarship down south,” said Thomson, who attended the University of Albany to play lacrosse. “There are so many opportunities for young Canadians in the game of lacrosse and hopefully more will continue to pursue their education and love of lacrosse down in the States.”
The Toronto Nationals, and all Major League Lacrosse teams, will begin training camp on Saturday, April 25th.
