Lake Tapps Lacrosse Holds 7th Annual Rally in Enumclaw Saturday

Fancy a game of lacrosse this weekend? Don't have any idea how lacrosse is played?

This Saturday, May 5 is your chance to not only learn more about this popular sport but see local youngsters ranging from third-graders to high school students suit up and play as part of the Lake Tapps Lacrosse Club.

Boys and girls from Sumner/Bonney Lake, Enumclaw, White River, Dieringer and the Auburn school districts are all a part of the club in addition to the original draw of players from Lake Tapps, according to a club press release.

The club's 7th annual lacrosse rally this Saturday is being played completely in Enumclaw for the first time. Beginning at 9 a.m., all 15 teams will be playing simultaneously at Enumclaw Middle School, Enumclaw High School and Enumclaw Stadium (Pete's Pool).

The don't-miss matches -- the grand finales -- are two varsity games taking place at Pete's Pool beginning at 6:15 p.m. The Titans girls varsity team, led by coach Brittany Hope, will face Evergreen at that time. Then, at 8 p.m., the Titans boys varsity team will face Skyline, led by coach Louis Lucchesi.

During the day, players and spectators are invited to try their shooting skills at the speed shot station and contest. A coaches' dunk station, face painting, decorations, t-shirt printing and raffles are also a part of the day's festivities in addition to food and beverage concessions.  

Admission to all three venues is free, but food donations are requested.  The food will be donated to local food banks. The teams are also competing to see who can raise the most food for charity.

The Lake Tapps Lacrosse Club began seven years ago as a single middle school boys team. The Annual Rally was created then as a way to celebrate the players and the game of lacrosse. Having since grown into a club of 15 teams, it has become the equivalent of a high school homecoming game, lacrosse style. It is the single largest gathering of one lacrosse club in the state.

"We are a registered not-for-profit organization with a goal of providing the experience of the fastest growing sport in the United States, to all youth within our region," said club coach Dan Lancaster. "We are proud to have some of the lowest registration costs of any organized sport and the ability to serve all. The mission of Lake Tapps Lacrosse Club is to emphasize the development of skills, self-esteem, good sportsmanship, fitness and teamwork through the sport of lacrosse."

More information about Saturday's rally can be found at www.laketappslax.org. Those who have never attended a game, or are new to the sport, can pick up a flyer at the fields that explains the sport and its unique terms. Penalties and referee signals are also included on the flyer.