In what has become a valley fall tradition, The Desert Vista Lacrosse Club, is planning the 3rd Annual Lax4Life Classic, a day of lacrosse that benefits local families dealing with childhood leukemia. In addition to funds raised from the tournament directly, organizers are seeking business or private sponsorships to benefit this worthy cause. Additional proceeds will also support the wider lacrosse community by funding two seasonally lacrosse “scholarships” for deserving players to offset the cost of playing the sport in the 2010-2011 period.
Desert Vista Midfielder, Matt Erwin, advances the ball against Horizon Huskies. Photo courtesy of Jim Grey.
“The tournament has grown tremendously,” said Coach Lannon, who along many other valley lacrosse enthusiasts, officials, volunteers, and players, have donated their time and talents to raise funds to support the cause. The Desert Vista Thunder High School Boys Lacrosse team found inspiration in helping the the Wein family in their journey to help their son, Brady, who was diagnosed with Leukemia two years ago. This inspiration was reflected in the team’s motto for the 2010 season, “B’lieve.” The motto was emblazoned on the team’s warm-up gear where the “B” stands for baby Brady. It was meant as a reminder of the courage and faith of the Wein family, and the club’s belief in the strength that can be drawn from that courage.
Desert Vista Midfielder Colton Valadez takes a pass while Mesa Heat defenseman. Photo courtesy of Jim Grey.
“The tournament has grown from 8 teams in 2008, to 30 teams last year,” said Coach Lannon. “We are hoping for even greater participation this year. All levels of the sport in the valley are represented from 6th Grade and under through college-level MCLA teams like the University of Arizona and Northern Arizona University, to Men’s Club Teams from ASU and the Desert Men’s Lacrosse League.” Lax4Life raised $2000 in 2009 from team participation fees, corporate donations, volunteer concession and sales. The Arizona Lacrosse Officials Association (ALOA) has stepped up and donated their fees for refereeing dozens of games which makes the tournament effective in attracting wide participation from teams across the region. The “Classic” is free to spectators and a great way to gain exposure to North America’s oldest athletic game.
Mike Wein, who's son is suffering from luekemia, addresses Desert Vista Thunder. Photo courtesy of Jim Grey.
The Lax4Life Classic
th, 2010. Teams play 3 games, no records or playoffs, just good fall ball competition. Fees are $225 per team ($75 a game) and $50 a game for the 6th and under division. Most 6th and under teams play two games. will be held in Gilbert’s Discovery Park December 4
PR Contact:
Jim Grey, DV Lacrosse Communications
greyjs@cox.net
480-246-4763 (M)
602-231-5205 (O)
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