Photo via Instagram @ptbojralakers
A new season is around the corner for the Peterborough Century 21 Lakers, and for captain Robert Hope, the focus is already clear.
After a disappointing end to last year, Hope says the message heading into the summer isn’t about overhaul. It’s about sharpening the details, raising the standard, and making sure the group is ready from the opening faceoff.
The Lakers open their season May 21 at home against the three-time defending Mann Cup champion Six Nations Chiefs, a matchup that immediately sets the tone for the year ahead.
For Hope, the build-up to the summer season is helped by players staying active through the winter, with many competing in the National Lacrosse League (NLL) before transitioning back to the Lakers.
Hope will also be busy behind the bench, continuing his role as head coach of the Peterborough Merit Precision Jr. A Lakers. That group opens its season May 21 in Toronto, with their home opener set for May 22 against the Ontario Junior Lacrosse League’s newest franchise, the Elora Hawks.
The love of the game is a big reason Hope stays so involved, but his motivation to win remains his main driving force.
With both teams set to open their seasons on the same night, it marks the start of another busy stretch in a city where lacrosse continues to run deep.
For Hope, that connection to the game, from minor lacrosse to junior to senior, remains at the heart of it all, and sets the foundation for what the Lakers hope will be a stronger, sharper season ahead.
(Written by: Scott Arnold)
