What does it really mean to be a “lax rat”? For New Westminster Salmonbellies Head Coach Jason Bishop, the answer is woven into three decades of passion, preparation, and persistence.
If you are new here, check out the rest of the Coaches Calls series here!
Bishop’s lacrosse journey is one that connects the past, present, and future of the sport in a way few others can claim. As a player, he suited up for the legendary Salmonbellies during the 1995 Mann Cup, battling the powerhouse Six Nations Chiefs at the historic Queen’s Park Arena. It was a series that ended in disappointment for New Westminster, but the memory has stayed with Bishop ever since. Now, 30 years later, he finds himself back on that same floor—this time as the head coach of the Bellies, leading his team into the 2025 Mann Cup on their home floor.
For Bishop, this is more than just a shot at redemption. It’s the culmination of a lifetime spent immersed in the game, a true embodiment of what it means to live and breathe lacrosse. Known as a player’s coach, Bishop has built a reputation for preparation and passion, constantly breaking down film and looking for every edge he can bring to his team. In this episode, we dive deep into his process, from his relentless diet of video analysis to how he finds himself “in the zone” during games, making split-second decisions with clarity and confidence.
We’ll also explore what keeps him motivated day after day, year after year. For Jason Bishop, there’s no place he’d rather be than at Queen’s Park—whether it’s a high-stakes playoff battle or a routine Tuesday night practice. His excitement, energy, and love for the game are contagious, offering insight not just into coaching at the highest level, but into the mindset of someone who has devoted his life to lacrosse.