Nanaimo’s Presidents Cup chances were improved with the recent addition of an MVP player.
The senior B Nanaimo Timbermen announced this week that Jeff Shattler will join the team for the 2018 season.
Shattler currently plays in the National Lacrosse League with the Saskatchewan Rush and was MVP and Transition Player of the Year in the NLL in 2011 and Most Outstanding Player in the Western Lacrosse Association in 2013.
“Through word of mouth, I heard that he was interested, so I talked to him and he agreed on everything and he wants to play,” said Shawn Swanson, Timbermen general manager.
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Shattler had already scheduled lacrosse camps in Duncan this coming summer. He’s friends with Timbermen defender Bobby Debrone and has also played with new coach Kyle Couling.
“I said, ‘why not go play with a bunch of buddies?’” Shattler said. “I was able to get away for a couple weeks here and there and it worked out. I know in senior A, a lot of teams want full commitment for a full summer and I really don’t have that in my bag anymore. I’m not young anymore, I’m older, I’ve got a job and all that stuff, so it made more sense to play for a team where I could come in and out.”
Swanson said Shattler is an all-around player who can play offence or go out the back gate.
“He’s a jack of all trades at the top level, basically,” the GM said.
Shattler said he envisions bringing a veteran presence and leadership to the team.
“Be a role model, try to work hard, try to keep the boys going on offence, I believe, and I’d like to try to stop the fast breaks,” he said. “I try to keep my game consistent with what it’s been in the past.”
Swanson said the Timbermen are excited about the addition of Shattler and said it’s helped attract interest and commitment from other players. He was asked if the signing sends a statement.
“Mostly to our fan base here, to let them know that we’re not running with the same team we’ve had the last few years, even though it’s been good,” Swanson said. “We’re going to do everything we can to bring a championship to Nanaimo.”
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