The 2019 varsity lacrosse season marks a significant milestone for the Hampton Roads Region in Virginia as 11 teams participate in the historic VHSL-sanctioned season. With practices beginning in April, parents, students, and athletes alike look forward to a unique occasion of watching games live. With the massive surge in appeal for lacrosse, just six years after Virginia schools originally adopted it, the region playoffs starting from May 19th and the state tournament beginning June 6th provide an incredible opportunity for those invested in the sport to showcase their abilities.
Lacrosse has a rich history in North America, being the oldest organized team sport. Virginia schools proudly adopted the game in 2006, which quickly grew in popularity, especially in Northern Virginia. The sport was officially recognized as an official high school team activity from 2006-2013 and continues to be a beloved pastime for many today.
The Hampton Roads region of Virginia has now seen such an increase in the popularity of lacrosse that the 11 teams of the Beach District have been able to field their first VHSL-sanctioned season this spring. Region playoffs are set to begin on May 19th, and the state tournament will be held from June 6th to 10th, providing an excellent opportunity for athletes to show their skills and enthusiasm for the sport. As lacrosse grows in appeal, there is hope that other public school systems in Hampton Roads will soon follow suit.
With the addition of VHSL lacrosse, new teams can join in, and existing teams can now officially represent their school. The enthusiasm for this new season is palpable, and parents, students, and athletes alike are eager to watch games live and spark more interest for future seasons.
Carolyn Rye, former Virginia Beach School Board President, played an instrumental role in making this dream a reality. Her outreach to the Superintendent, Aaron Spence, and the two division student activities coordinators, David Rhodes and Jim Long, revealed that a VHSL blueprint plan already existed. Subsequently, Rye took the plan to an HRLAX meeting and worked towards gaining approval from most Virginia Beach schools, which was essential for Principal League discussion.
Kellam High School's boy's lacrosse program has seen great success since it entered into the VHSL, winning its first nine games by an average 16-3. The Knights are led by impressive scorers Colin Maher (23 goals, 15 assists) and Evan Djunaedi (20 goals, ten assists), while goaltenders Gavin Sinram and Jeffrey Hayes have proven to be an impenetrable force in the net. Hampton Roads' long tradition of competitive lacrosse is still very much alive today!
Ocean Lakes girls lacrosse team is proud to have won its first seven district games, and the only loss of the season came against private school Cape Henry in an 18-8 decision. Coach Meghan Keating recognizes the financial benefits of the sport becoming official within the VHSL, allowing hundreds of athletes the opportunity to pick up a stick and learn one of the best sports out there. This has made it more accessible in Virginia Beach and given many the chance to try their hand at the game.
Lacrosse has become a beloved sport in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia and has quickly gained significance due to its recent inclusion in the VHSL. With this new varsity-sanctioned season, both young players and experienced athletes have been graced with the opportunity to showcase their skills on the court while earning recognition for their schools. All involved are thrilled by the community enthusiasm being created around lacrosse teams and look forward to what the future holds.
[button link="https://www.newsbreak.com/virginia-beach-va/3015932371537-lacrosse-is-no-longer-a-club-activity-in-virginia-beach-public-schools-coaches-hope-varsity-status-is-first-step-for-one-of-the-best-sports-out-there" newwindow="yes"]Learn More About Lacrosse History[/button]
