After several strong seasons at both the club and minor level, Abbotsford’s Ryan Sheldrake is set to join the Burnaby Lakers of the British Columbia Junior A Lacrosse League.
Sheldrake was chosen fourth overall by the club at the BCJALL entry draft on Jan. 13.
His lacrosse story began in 2013 when he first stepped onto the field for Juan de Fuca lacrosse on Vancouver Island. His passion for the game flourished as he frequented the local Western Lacrosse Association team, the Shamrocks.
The Sheldrake family then moved to Abbotsford, where he continued to hone his skills, actively participating in both Abbotsford field and box lacrosse associations.
Throughout his minor years he earned accolades and contributed to team successes. Notable achievements include winning gold in 2018 during his U13 year and securing bronze in the 2023 provincials with his U17 team. In 2021, he clinched gold at the US Box Nationals with the Fusion’s U15 team.
The Abbotsford Lacrosse community, represented by the Warriors and Valley Attack, stated that they join he and his family in celebrating Sheldrake’s success. Representatives from both groups believe he will excel at the junior level.
Sheldrake will continue to mentor young local lacrosse athletes behind the bench during the upcoming box season this year.
The BCJALL season typically runs from May to July.