Photo credit: globalnews.ca
Austin Shanks Prepares for New Chapter with Saskatchewan Rush
After spending six years on the East Coast with the Halifax Thunderbirds and Rochester Knighthawks, Austin Shanks is gearing up for a new adventure in the National Lacrosse League (NLL) with the Saskatchewan Rush. Looking forward to the upcoming season, Shanks hopes to experience fewer injuries as he joins a squad he once battled against on the field.
“Some of the defensive guys I used to face every game against Saskatchewan are now my teammates, which is a nice change,” Shanks remarked, mentioning players like Mike Messenger and Holden Garlent.
Shanks made headlines when he signed a two-year contract with the Rush in September. His move comes on the heels of a standout season with the Thunderbirds, where he emerged as one of the most desirable free agents during the off-season.
Over the past year, Shanks distinguished himself as one of the premier scorers in the NLL, posting 23 goals and 85 points, which caught the attention of many, including former Toronto Rock forward Zach Manns.
Expert Insights on Shanks’ Skills
“Having him on my side is going to make a difference,” Manns said. “Competing against Austin multiple times while I was in Toronto, I’ve witnessed him score brilliant goals. He’s among the smartest lacrosse players, and his high skill level will enable him to integrate smoothly into our team.”
Balancing his lacrosse career with his profession as a firefighter, Shanks reconnects with Rush captain Ryan Keenan, a childhood friend from Ontario. The two achieved a significant milestone together, winning the Minto Cup championship with the Whitby Junior ‘A’ Warriors in 2013.
“It’s fantastic to have Shanksy on board,” Keenan expressed. “Growing up together, he’s a good friend and a talented player with a keen understanding of the game. It’s great to see him and the other right-handed forwards collaborating effectively so far.”
As Shanks steps into this new role with the Rush, he will find familiarity in the team system. The offensive strategy is guided by co-head coaches Jimmy Quinlan and Derek Keenan, the latter having coached him more than a decade ago at the Warriors.
“I have a deep appreciation for Derek’s style of offense,” Shanks noted. “My experience aligns with it perfectly. It emphasizes teamwork instead of individual glory, allowing anyone to score or assist.”
In a well-rounded right-side forward lineup that includes Robert Church, Mike Triolo, Nathaniel Kozevnikov, and Brock Haley, Shanks is eager to contribute significantly to the Rush’s efforts to return to the post-season during the 2024-25 season.
“We have a solid core,” Shanks stated. “With everyone’s commitment and skill level, the offensive possibilities are exciting as we move forward.”
The Rush continue their training camp next weekend in Ontario, with pre-season match-ups scheduled against the Las Vegas Desert Dogs and Toronto Rock. Their inaugural game of the 2024-25 NLL season is set for November 30, where they will face the Albany FireWolves on the road.
Source
globalnews.ca