Training Camp is Underway
Oakville, ON – The Toronto Rock is poised to meticulously refine its 2024-25 team roster throughout November, hosting what promises to be the most competitive training camp witnessed in recent years.
The training camp roster boasts an impressive 38 players, significantly exceeding the usual numbers. The intensified competition transcends mere roster selection, extending into the critical realm of securing valuable playing time. Each regular season game allows teams to dress a maximum of 19 players, which includes two goaltenders. Analyzing the roster composition reveals fierce competition across various positions: forwards, defenders, lefties, and righties, thereby clearly delineating the battle lines for each position.
ADDITIONS: F Sam English* (Draft), D Jake Darlison (Draft), D Alex Messier* (Draft), F Landen Sinfield (Draft), F Colton Armitage (Draft), F Connor Shellenberger* (Draft), D Ethan Fisher (Draft), D Elijah Gash (Dispersal Draft), G Dante Mancini (UFA), F Gavin Thibeault (UFA), F Luke Robinson (UFA), D Owen Hill (UFA), D Brooker Muir (UFA), F Sam Parent (UFA), D Eric Lemire (UFA)
*Placed on Draft List and will not participate in training camp.
SUBTRACTIONS: D Sheldon Burns (UFA), D Alex Kew (UFA – Signed with HFX), F Dan Lintner (UFA), D Brandon Slade (Trade ROCH)
The initial two training camp sessions are set to feature fully structured scrimmages, overseen by NLL officials, dividing the roster into what resembles nearly two complete teams. Considerable anticipation builds for Tuesday evening at 8 PM, when the competition is expected to reach new heights following Saturday’s exciting opening day.
After Tuesday’s high-stakes session, the Rock will kick off the first of three exhibition games. Notably, all three exhibition games will be streamed live on the team’s YouTube Channel, showcasing the team’s talent to a broader audience. In addition to their Saturday exhibition games slated for November, the team will hold practices every Tuesday evening at 8 PM at the TRAC. The deadline for finalizing the opening night roster looms on Monday, November 25.
**Interview with Toronto Rock Head Coach, Matt Sawyer**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us, Coach Sawyer. Let’s dive right in. The training camp is underway for the Toronto Rock, and it’s shaping up to be a particularly competitive one this year. What are your thoughts on the current roster of 38 players?
**Matt Sawyer:** Thank you for having me! The 38 players we have in camp this year is quite a remarkable figure. It really reflects the depth of talent we’ve managed to attract. This level of competition is essential as we look to refine our team for the upcoming season.
**Editor:** It sounds like fierce competition is the name of the game. With so many players vying for a limited number of roster spots, how do you plan to evaluate the players effectively?
**Matt Sawyer:** Absolutely, the competition will be intense. We’re taking a comprehensive approach to evaluating players through drills, scrimmages, and feedback sessions. We want to see not just skill and athleticism but also teamwork and how players adapt to our style of play. It’s crucial for us to find players who can contribute to both the short-term goals and the long-term vision of the team.
**Editor:** Beyond just securing a roster spot, players will be competing for valuable playing time. How does that dynamic affect the team’s chemistry during training camp?
**Matt Sawyer:** It certainly adds a layer of pressure, but it’s also a great opportunity for players to showcase their abilities. Healthy competition can really drive performance. We’ve fostered an environment where players push each other, and that keeps the spirit of teamwork at the forefront. We’re encouraging camaraderie even as they compete, because ultimately, we’re all working towards the same goal: winning games.
**Editor:** With the regular season allowing for only 19 players to dress, how do you plan to manage expectations for those who may not make the cut?
**Matt Sawyer:** We believe in transparency, so we’ll make sure to communicate openly with each player about their standing. It’s vital that they know what they need to improve upon if they don’t make the final roster. We’re looking to build a culture where everyone feels valued, whether they are on the game-day roster or not. It’s about developing players and preparing them for future opportunities.
**Editor:** That sounds like a positive approach. As we look ahead, what excites you the most about this upcoming season for the Toronto Rock?
**Matt Sawyer:** I’m genuinely excited about our potential. The mix of experienced veterans and young, hungry talent is promising. I feel confident that with this depth and competition, we can push towards our goal of contending for the championship. It’s going to be an exhilarating season, and I can’t wait to see how these players develop through this camp and into the season.
**Editor:** Thank you, Coach Sawyer, for sharing your insights. It’s going to be an exciting time for the Toronto Rock and their fans!
**Matt Sawyer:** Thank you! We appreciate the support from our fans and can’t wait to get started.
