Shamrocks sign 2017 Draft Picks Hamilton, Messenger, Nass and Wade
Victoria, BC – With 3 days until the start of the Shamrocks 68th season, the team is pleased to announce the signings of 2017 WLA draft picks Evan Messenger, Dallas Wade, Matt Hamilton, and Cody Nass.
Messenger was Victoria’s first pick at seventh overall, playing for the Delta Islanders of the BCJLA, he finished third in league scoring with 96 points in 20 games. Messenger was given first team all star honours leading the Islanders to a 15-6 record.
“I couldn’t have been more excited to hear I was drafted by the Shamrocks” Messenger said. “I try to bring a little physicality on the offensive end, and score some goals.”
In rounds two and three, Victoria picked a pair of junior Rocks in Dallas Wade and Matthew Hamilton at 21st and 28th overall. Wade, who spent three seasons with the Junior A team, recording 40 points over 46 games. Hamilton finished third on the Junior Shamrocks in points, scoring 19 goals and 25 assists in 20 games, while not taking a single penalty.
"I've wanted to be a Shamrock ever since I picked up my first lacrosse stick. So not only is it an honour to be given a chance to wear that jersey for the first time, it truly is a dream come true for me" Hamilton said.
“I’m super excited, I was born and raised in Victoria, and playing for the team you grew up watching is really exciting. I’ve dreamed of this moment for my whole life, it’s going to be fun playing in front of all the screaming fans.” said Wade.
Without a fourth round pick, Victoria took Cody Nass at 34th overall. Nass was teammates with Messenger in Delta last season, scoring 34 points in 15 games. Nass was the Junior A scoring champion back in 2013, recording 125 points, thirteen more than any other player, in just 22 games. He was also the only WLA draft eligible player with more than 300 career Junior A points.
“I’m really happy to be here in Victoria, it’s a great organization. To be here with my buddy and former teammate Evan (Messenger), I’m really excited for the home opener on Friday” Nass said.
The Victoria Shamrocks first home game is May 19th vs Langley Thunder with season tickets starting at just $45 for kids and can be bundled with an adult for only $150. Tickets can be purchased at Victoriashamrocks.com, phoning 250-478-ROCK(7625) or at the team store located at 967 Langford Parkway.