New Faces, Familiar Firepower as Bellies Set to Start 2025 Season

A Stunning Front Gate

This offseason saw bold moves aimed squarely at contending for the Mann Cup. One of  biggest splashes was the acquisition of Tyler Pace, a standout with the Calgary Roughnecks, who brings NLL pedigree and playoff poise to the Bellies’ front door. He’ll be joined by fellow Roughneck and former WLA Rookie of the Year Haiden Dickson, back in New West red, white and blue after a President’s Cup run with Ladner in the Senior B ranks.

Mitch Jones, Logan Schuss, Will Malcom, and Ryan Martel all return to anchor a deep and dangerous forward unit that now includes some major off-season additions in Phil Caputo, a proven NLL scorer, and rookie sensation Tye Kurtz, fresh off a strong season with the Albany FireWolves. Will’s older brother, speedster Tony Malcom, rejoins the club this season as well, bringing elite transition speed and two-way play. With so much experience in the room, Austin Ducommun (another NLL Roghneck and Bellies sophomore) and Noah Armitage (in his third year with New West) will have a chance to grow and develop, adding to the team’s front-gate depth and drive.

A DefenCe Designed to Win A Championship

The Bellies are just as stacked on the back end. Veteran leaders Brett Mydske, Brandon Goodwin, Drew Belgrave, Justin Salt, and Jeff Cornwall will provide shutdown ability and playoff experience, while Tyrell Hamer-Jackson returns as one of the league’s top faceoff men. Conner Cook is also back, named the Colorado Mammoth’s Rookie of the Year, and Owen Down returns following his first season in the NLL.

The defense will also be bolstered by the return of NLL stars Jordan Gilles, Patrick Shoemay, and Jeff Henrick. Gilles, a highly regarded member of the Mammoth defense, last suited up for the Salmonbellies in 2022. Shoemay, a reliable stay-at-home defender with the San Diego Seals in the NLL, was part of the 2023 Bellies team that hosted the Mann Cup. Henrick, currently with the Georgia Swarm, is known for his aggressive yet disciplined style of play. A former Salmonbellie from 2019, he brings valuable experience and leadership to the back end.

Jacob Ruest also joins the Bellies this year, bringing a wealth of WLA and NLL experience, along with a  lacrosse IQ that makes him a threat anywhere on the floor. There’s also plenty of excitement around free agent signing Zach Masson, a versatile transition player currently with the Albany FireWolves. Known for his physicality and ability to move seamlessly from defense to offense, Masson’s dynamic play is expected to be a major asset this season.

Rounding out the group are Ben Soenen and Tysen Nielsen, two rising talents who were protected after strong seasons with the Junior Salmonbellies. Soenen saw meaningful minutes as a senior call-up last year and proved he could play at the WLA level.  Nielsen is expected to bring speed and athleticism as he enters his first full senior season.

Confident Leadership in Net and Behind the Bench

Between the pipes, NLL pro Justin Geddie is back after a breakout 2024 postseason, where he nearly carried the Bellies past Victoria before being sidelined by injury. A healthy Geddie gives New West a serious edge in goal.

Behind the bench, Jason Bishop returns as head coach for his second season, now joined by Kyle Goundrey, a WLA legend respected across the league for his all-around game and leadership. The coaching duo brings both strategic insight, discipline and championship drive.

partners pulling together 

This season is all about connection. The Club is proud to be working hand-in-hand with community partners at every level—from minor and junior Bellies lacrosse to sponsors, the City, labour groups, and local organizations like Honour House. It’s a full team effort, on and off the floor.

Opening night is the perfect example. It’s Minor Lacrosse Night, and every child wearing a minor lacrosse jersey will get in free with an accompanying adult. Before the game, join us for a tailgate party hosted by Stonehaus Realty starting at 5 PM at 718 2nd Street—with free tickets, jersey giveaways, and hot dogs on the grill.

And if you’re heading straight to the arena, come hungry—Triple O Burgers will be cooking out front of Queen’s Park Arena.

Let the Journey Begin

The stage is set. The roster is loaded. And the Bellies are ready to chase Mann Cup #25.  With fast-paced action, elite-level talent, and a shot at national glory on the line, the 2025 season promises to be one for the history books.

Game 1 is just a day away! Don't miss a moment!

📍 New Westminster Salmonbellies vs. Nanaimo Timbermen

🗓 Thursday, May 22 | 7:00 PM | Queen’s Park Arena

🎟 Get your tickets now