SCOTS NEEDING COMMONWEALTH BOOST
Erik Olson insists this weekend’s three-team Celtic Nations tournament in Edinburgh is more about Scotland’s players making an impression than himself.
The American has been tipped to become Glasgow Rocks next head coach after spending last season as Sterling Davis’ number two, with the Oriam friendly – and Sunday’s meeting with Wales – giving him a golden chance to enhance his CV.
But with the Scots in desperate need of two convincing wins against Ireland and Wales to strengthen their case for inclusion at next year’s Commonwealth Games, Olson claims his own future can’t become the priority.
“This is about setting our brand and our identity,†he said. “We have a lot of our key guys here and that’s the focus with them. These are just friendly games. They’re important but this is an opportunity for me to get on the floor with the players.
“We did a little of it back in December but now there is more of a chance for them to get familiar with one another and take some steps forward. Of course, there will be eyes on us but that’s a good thing because we want people to take notice of our programme.â€
The hosts include five Rocks players with Great Britain cap Ali Fraser arriving off a strong season at German side Ehingen. But there will be huge intrigue surrounding Seattle-born forward Skyler White who has flown in from university in California to turn out for his parents homeland.
“He’s a good player,†Olson said. “He went to the same school as Hayden Lescault. We’re really pleased he’s flying over to join us.â€
SCHEDULE
Friday
Celtic Nations (Oriam). Scotland v Ireland (7.30)
Saturday
Ireland v Wales (3pm)
Sunday
Scotland v Wales (2pm)
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