Aidan McDonald was the first overall pick in the 2022 BC Junior A Lacrosse League Entry Draft and was one of four kids from the Ridge Meadows Burrards program selected in the first round.
The draft of graduating U17 midget players took place virtually on Saturday evening at the Langley Events Centre. The New Westminster Salmonbellies chose McDonald’s, which was considered the top pick by consensus.
Congratulations to all the graduating midget players drafted last night! We can’t wait to call some of your names in 5 years and bring you back to the Burrards family! For those who aren’t drafted, hit the ground running, get to work and we’ll be calling your name too in 5 years! pic.twitter.com/JodRy9fKkl
— Maple Ridge Burrards (@Burrardslax) January 30, 2022
He has been a star in every tournament he has attended, including the national box lacrosse championships where he was a star at the peewee and bantam levels. He was also named Most Valuable Player at the 2019 Provincial Championships.
“Fantastic lacrosse IQ, great passer, great finisher, great defender,” said Gerry Van Beek, who provided draft analysis alongside host Tino Fera.
Van Beek is president of the BC Lacrosse Association and knows many drafted players well throughout their time with the Team BC program.
“He’s fast, fast and brave (and) always the hardest working player in training and games,” Van Beek said.
McDonald goes to school in Culver, Indiana.
“I am extremely honored and grateful that New Westminster selected me with their first choice,” he said. “I can’t wait to start my junior career with such a great and historic franchise.”
“I would like to thank the Ridge Meadows Burrards and all the coaches and players who have helped me along the way.
The top three players picked in the draft were Burrards. McDonald’s selection was quickly followed by Jordan Meech, second overall for the Port Coquitlam Saints, and the Delta Islanders selecting Jack Olson third overall.
The fourth Ridge Meadows product to enter the first round was Graysen Balatti, who placed seventh overall in the Langley Thunder.
They were congratulated by Minor Lacrosse Association President Tyson Craiggs: “On behalf of our association, I would like to congratulate all of the Burrards who were selected in last night’s Junior A Draft. It is truly a testament to the wonderful families, people and coaches we are blessed with here in our association. I wish you all continued careers after minor lacrosse. »
A total of 48 players were chosen in the six-round draft. For the full draft results, see bcjall.com
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