There's a new force in lacrosse in Canada now that the Saskatchewan Rush have claimed their third National Lacrosse League (NLL) championship in 4 years. And when it comes to the youngsters in the Estevan Lacrosse Association looking up at their professional heroes, that force can be powerful indeed.

"Some of the kids are looking up to them. They go out to the games as much as they possibly can, they look up to the game, and they're very excited to play the game itself," stated Trevor McNabb, the Head Coach of the Estevan Peewee Voltz.

Estevan Lacrosse and other associations throughout the province get opportunities to help out at the Rush games, selling 50/50 tickets, some of which comes back to the smaller organizations. 

Overall, however, McNabb noted that the province's championship win will ultimately result in more involvement in the sport.

"More kids go to the professional game, and then they strive to get towards that, like NHL and minor hockey. They want to get better, they see these professionals make a living at doing this, and it's some that they maybe want to look into a bit more."

"The Rush and all their success and what they do with the minor lacrosse programs around Saskatchewan has been a big influence. Financially, they support the local associations, and it does give the kids something to look forward to maybe in the future," added Blaine Chrest, the Manager for the Estevan Bantam Voltz.

He said that the local players follow the Rush closely, and their steady numbers have proven interest.