IL Indoor

American Joel Derechinsky has what most American lacrosse players don't. Box experience.

Reigning National Lacrosse League MVP Casey Powell played with the Toronto Beaches in 1994. Current Colorado Mammoth defender Steve Forsythe was a member of the Surrey Stickmen in 2005 and Minnesota Swarm defender Josh Funk did the same with the Burnaby Lakers three summers back. Both former first rounder Frank Resetarits and younger brother Joey Resetarits spent dominating seasons with the St. Catharines Athletics, Maryland’s goal scoring machine Grant Catalino spending the last two summers with the Six Nations Arrows.

Americans taking part in Canada’s Junior scene is becoming a growing trend, US field studs spiking their NLL stock and developing their overall game before going pro.

You can add Joel Derechinsky to that list, a regular Insider contributor, but also an American pro hopeful that has spent two summers learning the indoor game with Alberta’s Calgary Raiders previous to 2010.

Athletic, smart, face-off skills, a stellar work rate and a two-way game with close to 90-goals scored during his four seasons at Gordon College, Derechinsky has already taken a big bite out of the learning curve many field-to-box trialists have issues with, plus he also possess maybe the biggest characteristic looked for from NLL GM’s and coaches, a serious commitment to learning the game.

A bit of an American rarity in this year’s draft (increased numbers to come in future seasons however), Derekchinsky could surprise many if he continues on the box path he’s already set out for himself.

JOEL DERECHINSKY

Height: 5′11″
Weight: 180
Position: Transition
Shoots: Both
From: Annapolis, MD
Junior: Calgary Raiders
College: Gordon College

What do you feel your greatest asset is that would allow you to translate your game to the NLL?
I feel like I have a high lacrosse IQ and spending two seasons in Calgary helped me adapt my knowledge of the field game to quickly learning how it fits the fast pace of the indoor game.

One (or a couple) word(s) to describe your game?
Smart and versatile.

What role/position do you see yourself playing in the NLL?
I feel I can fill a lot of different roles on the floor but I would say taking draws and playing transition.

What current or former NLLer would you most closely compare or model your game after?
I would like to think my game is unique to myself, but if I had to pick, I would say someone like Nolan Heavenor. A guy who does a lot of work at both ends of the floor and at the X.

Your greatest accomplishment during your lacrosse career?
Beating our rival Endicott my Senior year of college, first time since 2003, and playing for the Raiders in Calgary under Bruce Codd.

Anything else to add?
I just graduated with a degree in Psychology and I am interested in Sports Psychology. I would love to play in any city where I can help the team either on or off the floor.

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