Snipers reload for a new ALL season

by Scott Ludwig

The last time the Six Nations Snipers were on the Iroquois Lacrosse Arena floor the team had just won their fifth-straight game. They were the hottest team in the Arena Lacrosse League soaring up the standings after going 0-6 to begin the season. That was March of 2020.

When the COVID-19 pandemic moved its way into North America it affected everyone, including the ALL which was forced put a stop to their fourth season. The 2021 season never started, but the minor league circuit is now preparing for Season 5.

On November 21 the ALL held their annual draft with teams selecting new players along with veterans who may be seeking a shot at playing in the National Lacrosse League. Six Nations held the first pick via a trade with the Toronto Monarchs and made a splash in selecting NLL veteran Johnny Powless.

The fifth overall pick in the 2011 NLL Draft, Powless has played in 160 NLL games over his career scoring 210 goals and 465 points. When he decided not to return to the Toronto Rock this season Snipers GM Darcy Powless was thrilled with the prospect of adding him to the roster.

“When you get a name like Johnny Powless showing interest in our team and league, it’s a huge addition,” commented Darcy. “Even if he ends up getting picked up again by an NLL team later on having his experience around our team will be a huge bonus for not only the players but coaches as well.”

Joining Darcy on the bench once again is coach Vince Longboat. The 20+ season veteran recently helped guide the Brock Badgers to the Baggataway Cup in his first season as head coach. Longboat took command of the program at Brock in July then guiding the Badgers to a 9-1 season this fall.

The Snipers added several other former or current NLL players via the draft, not expecting all to play in the ALL.

“We were also able to draft a few more NLL guys who were recently released by there NLL clubs. Being able to add their experience as well is great for our team.”

The Snipers are set to begin their ALL regular season on December 19 hosting the Monarchs at the ILA.

Six Nations Snipers – 2021 ALL Draft

1 Johnny Powless
4 Scott Del Zotto
5 Kevin Owen Hill
11 Jake Gilmour
25 Gage King-Gorman
27 Sam LeClair
32 Boedy Shields
39 Ryan Terefenko
52 Mike Berger
60 Jeremy Bomberry
67 Ross Hill
82 Mike Pongetti
95 Doug Powless
102 Jaxon Longboat
109 Tehoka Nanticoke
112 Thunder Hill