There is much about the game of lacrosse that we like to debate: East versus West, concrete floors versus wood, four periods versus three. There is, however, one thing that is just not debatable. Injuries can make or break a Minto Cup run. This is why the Minto Cup champion junior Adanacs have entrusted their physical health to physiotherapists Christina Mattiello and Teresa Agar.
Christina and Teresa made themselves available to the Adanacs at practices, games and during clinical hours. Throughout the season they acted both as first responders to manage injuries as they happened and also to treat players to prepare them for the next big match up.
“Some days we could make it through a whole game with very little to do, but on other days we could be running out on the floor several times. You never know what the injury could be until you see it up close, so you have to be prepared for anything”, says Agar. “Some injuries can look pretty bad because head lacerations bleed so much but there are certainly worse injuries that can happen…besides, lacrosse players don’t mind having scars”.
When asked about her role in the Minto Cup drive, Matteillo commented, “I would never dare take credit for their success. I just wanted to make sure that injuries weren’t a roadblock to their success. With the support of our coworkers and Dr. Don Hedges we had a wealth of knowledge and experience to tap into throughout the year.”
Christina and Teresa both treat out of Trailside Physio and work with several other teams and organizations throughout the year. They were recently honoured by BC lacrosse by being awarded the prize for “Trainers of the Year.