Thunderbirds Sign First-Round Pick Wake:Riat BowHunter to Five-Year Contract
September 22, 2022 – National Lacrosse League (NLL) – Halifax Thunderbirds News Release
HALIFAX, Nova Scotia – The Halifax Thunderbirds today announced they have signed their 2022 NLL Entry Draft first-round pick and forward Wake:Riat “Bo” BowHunter to a five-year contract.
BowHunter, 22, is the son of Thunderbirds Owner and General Manager Curt Styres. The Thunderbirds selected him No. 12 overall in the 2022 Entry Draft, the first of seven names the team picked.
“It means a lot to be drafted by Halifax,” said BowHunter. “It’s a dream come true. I’ve grown up around this team since I was a little kid and have always wanted to play for the organization.”
BowHunter has spent part of two seasons playing for the Six Nations Chiefs in Major Series Lacrosse Sr. A and four seasons with the Six Nations Arrows Jr. A. From 2018-21, the left-hander recorded 58 points (19G, 39A) in 29 regular season games played for the Arrows. BowHunter’s seen action in six MSL games for the Chiefs, netting a goal and tagging on three assists.
The newest Thunderbirds first-rounder was part of the Iroquois Nationals team in 2019 at the World Junior Lacrosse Championships. BowHunter helped the team win silver at the championship, where he had nine points (6G, 3A) in the early rounds and 10 points (4G, 6A) in the two playoff games.
Playing alongside his cousin, Thunderbirds captain Cody Jamieson, Bo has spent much of his life surrounded by family who share the same passion for the sport he loves.
“Bo has grown into a mature adult over these last few years. Not many people would be able to move 24 hours away from home and succeed,” said Jamieson. “It’s a testament to his character and ambition. I’m excited about what’s next for him.”
Listed at 6-foot-2, 210 pounds, Bo suited up for Jacksonville University, posting 36 points (29G, 7A) in 35 games across three seasons.
“I couldn’t be more excited for Bo and his future with the Thunderbirds,” said Jacksonville Head Coach John Galloway. “I had the pleasure of watching Bo grow up the last four years on and off the field. His dream was to play in the NLL, and I know he is ready to get to work to help bring a title to Halifax.
“Bo has proven he can play at the highest level, and I have every ounce of confidence he will prove it on the floor this winter. He has a No. 1 fan in Jacksonville with me!”
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The Thunderbirds return to Scotiabank Centre for their third season in Halifax this winter. Season tickets to watch championship-calibre professional lacrosse in Nova Scotia are on sale at HalifaxThunderbirds.com or by calling or texting 902-334-2333.
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