Kozevnikov's first career hat trick comes with family on hand
Dec 20, 2023While Ryan Keenan stole the show in Saskatchewan's win over Vegas, it was newcomer Nathaniel Kozevnikov who stole the spotlight in the fourth quarter.
With his father, Paul, in attendance at Michelob Ultra Arena, Nathaniel netted his first career hat trick in the National Lacrosse League (NLL).
“Having my dad in the house for this one was super nice,” said Nathaniel after the 17-5 win. “The game is a lot more fun when you’ve got family in the stands and tonight just meant that much more.”
Kozevnikov's first of the game came on a beautiful pick-and-pop with Robert Church, he buried his second of the contest top shelf after a feed from Clark Walter, and to cap off the evening, a perfectly placed penalty shot that he stuck behind Landon Kells.
"I didn't expect to get the tap, not going to lie. Jimmy (Quinlan) called my name and I was like alright, I'm just going to go with what I know," joked Nathaniel post-game.
The special moment was a long time coming for the 25-year-old from Langley, BC, who was playing in his sixth career NLL game.
“I’ve never had a hat trick in the NLL so it was nice to pot and few and get that feeling.”
While Paul can’t attend all the games, now that Nathaniel is living in Saskatoon, a few more trips to SaskTel Centre are in line, especially if his son can continue to progress in his lacrosse career.
“My dad has done a lot for me. Between driving me to practices and games, devoting all that time to us kids because we’ve got a big family, but he was always there for me,” commented Nathaniel. “He was the one who got me to where I am today.”
Kozevnikov and the Rush are back in action on New Year’s Eve when the Albany FireWolves are in town.
Tickets can be found here.