Shamrocks honour Siddall legacy

Armstrong Senior Shamrocks’ netminder Chad Pieper receives the Coach’s Choice Award from team president Jeff Hanley at the ‘Rocks banquet and annual general meeting at the Anchor Inn.

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There was one big, funny player missing from the Armstrong Shamrocks senior C lacrosse awards banquet and annual general meeting at the Anchor Inn.

The Irish, however, honoured Owen Siddall, posthumously, with the Shamrock of the Year trophy. They also held a moment of silence for the popular, kilt-wearing goaltender.

Siddall died suddenly last Thanksgiving at his home in Armstrong. He was 46.

“Owen’s death was a huge surprise to everyone and he is missed terribly,” said Shamrock GM and goalie mentor Chad Pieper. “Owen was the heart and soul of the team and you can’t help but think something is missing when we all get together like this.

Shamrock president Jeff Hanley was encouraged by the large turnout this year. Many items were discussed including the new ‘no fighting rule’ that is being handed down to all amateur leagues across Canada.

“We are going to have to learn to deal with this new twist as it is a big change for all of us,” said Hanley.

“Unfortunately, it opens the door for a lot more of the dirty stuff behind the play as players don’t have to fear repercussion as much.”

Also discussed was the folding of the Vernon Tigers. It was unanimously agreed that Armstrong would welcome any Vernon players that were interested in coming out to continue their lacrosse career.

“At times like this, we put the past behind us and do what is best for the game and the league,” said Hanley.

“We would like to keep as many of Vernon’s players in the game as possible to make it that much easier when they are able to field a team again hopefully in the near future.”

Shamrocks earning hardware at the awards banquet include:

Rookie of the Year: Darren Kirby (11-12-23). Volunteer of the Year: Brian Heitman. Most Improved Player: Braydon Sanders (12-12-24). Most Inspirational Player: Jamie Cockerill. Top Offensive Player: Steve Clark (17-10-27). Top Defensive Player: Gord Roberts. Most Sportsmanlike Player: Kriss Yargeau. Manager’s Choice Award: Chad Pounder. Coach’s Choice Award: Chad Pieper. MVP – Playoffs: Jarrett Medhurst. MVP – regular season: Cockerill/Sanders.