Heathwood lacrosse all-star makes a summer splash north of the border
Contributed by Heathwood Hall Episcopal School

Adam Mandell

Heathwood junior and two-time all state lacrosse player Adam Mandell traveled north to Vancouver, British Columbia, this summer to play box lacrosse, Canada's national indoor version of the field game played in the states. It was a rare opportunity for an American high school player to test his skills against the best Canadian players in his age group. It also was a chance for Adam and his family to connect with some old friends. Those relationships were forged years earlier, before the Mandells moved to Columbia and Heathwood, when they hosted 11 boys from Vancouver during their years at boarding schools in the Northeast.

In Canada, Adam was "drafted" to play for the Maple Ridge Burrards, a team located in the Eastern suburbs of Vancouver. In six games played, Adam averaged more than seven points per game (one awarded for each goal and assist).

As a highly regarded player here at home, Adam has set Heathwood team and state records for most assists in a season. The Canadian game was different, but he more than held his own. "The game in Canada is faster than I expected, but once I got the hang of it; it was a lot of fun," said Adam, reflecting on his summer experience.

"The best part was how these small communities rally around their teams and people come out to watch every game from age five to the masters level, which is old guys like my Dad." Adam plans to return to Vancouver next summer for a longer stay.