Aidan McDonald was the first overall pick in the 2022 BC Junior A Lacrosse League Entry Draft, and was one of four kids out of the Ridge Meadows Burrards program selected in the first round.
The draft for graduating U17 midget players was held virtually on Saturday night at Langley Events Centre. The New Westminster Salmonbellies chose McDonald, who was considered the consensus top pick.
Congrats to all the Graduating Midget Players drafted last night! We are looking forward to calling some of your names in 5 years, and bringing you back to the Burrards Family! For those not drafted, hit the floor, put in the work and we will call your name in 5 years as well! pic.twitter.com/JodRy9fKkl
— Maple Ridge Burrards (@Burrardslax) January 30, 2022
He has been an all-star in every tournament he has competed in, including at box lacrosse nationals where he was an all-star at both 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 familiar with many of the drafted players through their time with the Team BC program.
“He is fast, quick and gritty (and) always the hardest working player in practices and games,” Van Beek said.
McDonald is attending school in Culver, Indiana.
“I am extremely honoured and grateful for New Westminster selecting me with their first pick,” he said. “I’m looking forward to starting my junior career with such a great and historic franchise.”
“I’d like to thank the Ridge Meadows Burrards and all the coaches and players who have helped me along the way.”
The top three players chosen in the draft were Burrards. McDonald’s selection was quickly followed by Jordan Meech going second overall to the Port Coquitlam Saints, and the Delta Islanders selecting Jack Olson third overall.
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The fourth Ridge Meadows product to go in the first round was Graysen Balatti, who went seventh overall to the Langley Thunder.
They were congratulated by the president of the minor lacrosse association, Tyson Craiggs: “On behalf of our Association, I would like to congratulate all of the Burrards who were selected in last nights Junior A Draft. It really is a testament to the great families, people and coaching we are blessed with here in our Association. All the best as you all continue your careers after Minor Lacrosse.”
Altogether, 48 players were chosen over the six-round draft. For full draft results, see bcjall.com
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