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Lee’s Summit R-7’s Newest Sport is America’s...
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Lee’s Summit R-7’s Newest Sport is America’s Oldest Sport
April 2, 2011
By Merle Bowers
Lee’s Summmit North freshman Kyle Rampetsreiter prepares to play mid field for the Broncos. He has played football and wrestled for Lee’s Summit North
In the past few weeks, at all three of our R-7 high schools, there has been a gathering of baseball players, football players, cheerleaders, dancers, cross country runners and even some who have never participated in a high school sport. These students gather in the early evening, several hours after school has let out. The adults who lead these gatherings are from many walks of life about our community. They have been gathering for lacrosse practice.
“Lacrosse?” You ask. Yes, lacrosse.
“But I thought the district was tight on money and programs were going to be cut.” Don’t get ahead of me good readers.
A year ago, several community members wanted to help start lacrosse in our high schools. When I talk to one, he wants to give the credit to another. These parents and coaches got together and were able to set up men’s and women’s lacrosse clubs at each of the high schools.
“Lacrosse is the oldest sport in America, it was first played by the Native Americans.” Comments Jon Ellis, head men’s coach at Lee’s Summit North. “It is providing an opportunity for more students to be involved in a varsity sport. “
Lee’s Summit West men’s coach, Eric Koford describes it as a sport that “combines basketball, football and soccer. James Naismith created basketball from lacrosse.”
Lee’s Summit R-7 has begun lacrosse this season as a club sport. This means that the teams do not cut players. Athletes showed up from several sports and activities. Some are even playing both lacrosse and another spring sport this season.
Adam Barry-Ford, a Lee’s Summit West sophomore said that his dad had played in Canada and that is why he went out. Lee’s Summit North junior, Drew Mantlo grew up in Maryland wanting to play, but didn’t think she would be able to when her family moved to Lee’s Summit.
Back to your earlier question readers, all of the coaches are volunteers and the only equipment furnished by the school is the goalie protection gear. Each student is required to purchase their own stick and other protection, costing from 80 to 200 dollars. The schools provide the playing fields for practice.
The Lee’s Summit North women are coming off of a 17-1 loss to St. Teresa’s Academy. Ellis comments that, “They were very helpful in giving our girls pointers and it was a good experience for them.” They could not have been very discouraged. When I arrived at their practice after this loss, the Bronco women were running their laps and warming up, long before the coach arrived. They are looking forward to their next game this Saturday. I am looking forward to covering this new exciting sport in Lee’s Summit.
To reach Tribune writer Merle Bowers, call 816-867-0433, email mrlbws1959@gmail.com or follow on twitter @westmosports.
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