When you talk to Team Manitoba box lacrosse athletes #7 Kaiden Bazinet (Oakbank) and #88 Ridley Ringor (Winnipeg), it’s easy to tell they're here to compete, represent, and grow the game they love.

‍

Repping the Middle Province

Wearing the provincial jersey at the national level is a huge honour for Kaiden, and for Ridley, it’s about the legacy. 

“It’s really special to me to be a part of this program, and it’s a moment in history for the entire country and that’s really special.”

Lacrosse may not yet rival hockey in Manitoba, but one day…maybe…

“One thing maybe not a lot of people know is [lacrosse] is growing in Manitoba and hopefully we’ll be a competitor with hockey,” says Kaiden.

Ridley gives a shoutout to his local team:

“There’s a junior team called the Winnipeg Blizzard – and they should come to our games in the summertime.”

‍

Canada Games Highlights

While winning games is top of mind, the full experience of the Games stands out for both athletes.

“Probably the pin trading because it brings everyone together and you get to meet new people,” Kaiden shares.

For Ridley, it’s all about the action:

“We just had our first game against New Brunswick, and we beat them, so that was really fun. Hopefully we can win a couple more games here.”

And the future? After the Canada Games, both athletes see themselves taking their career to a higher level. 

“Maybe college, or compete to get an education, too,” Kaiden says.

“I would love to play lacrosse at a collegiate level,” adds Ridley.