Kids from different schools in Weyburn were able to learn the basics of lacrosse in gym class from Saskatchewan Rush forward Jeff Shattler.

Shattler runs a lacrosse academy in partnership with the Saskatchewan Lacrosse Association and travels all over the province to help promote and grow the game. He is in Weyburn this week speaking with the kids and hoping some of them will like it moving forward. 

"It gives them an opportunity to just try it. Sometimes kids don't like it and other kids they love it and they fall in love with it," Shattler noted. "That's what I get out of it, growing the game and seeing registration numbers go up."

While he plays for the Rush on weekends, Shattler travels the province during the week to inspire the next generation of Rush players. He makes sure to visit all different cities and towns to give all kids an equal opportunity to learn the game. 

"I think this is where you'll find most of your athletes from, these smaller communities, and you'll find diamonds in the rough," Shattler said. "I want to give these smaller communities a chance to enjoy this game I love so much and I'm trying to travel all over the province right now and grow the game."

Shattler first started doing work like this 14 years ago when he played for the Calgary Roughnecks. He visited schools all around Calgary and area and helped grow the sport from 300 kids to over 1,000 in a few years. Now in his second season with the Rush, he's hoping for a similar outcome in Saskatchewan.

"I really believe it will be the same impact with the Rush being here and me running this program with the SLA. I think the registration numbers are going to go up and the province is only going to get better as a lacrosse community," he said.

Shattler's decision to move to Saskatchewan has paid dividends for him on and off the field. In his first season as a member of the Rush, he captured Finals MVP en route to a league championship. Now in his second season, Shattler and the Rush are once again atop the West Division and he has 67 points, which is third on the team. 

He believes his decision to move after 11 seasons with Calgary was a good one.

"I think it was the best decision I ever made," Shattler stated. "I got the fun back by coming out here and getting a new look. I think it was the best decision I've ever made in my lacrosse career and I stand by that. It's been beneficial for me starting my own business and as a lacrosse player."

Shattler will be in Weyburn all week continuing to teach students at schools in town and running camps in the evening.