Pickerington Schools recognizes lacrosse as school sport

(by Anne Holmes, staff writer - September 17, 2009)

In a reversal of its spring decision, the Pickerington School Board will recognize lacrosse as a school sport.

At the Sept. 14 meeting, board members agreed to the parameters for considering lacrosse as a non-school funded, school recognized club sport.

Pickerington lacrosse parent Ellen Paulus thanked the school board on behalf of the more than 250 students district wide who participate in lacrosse, saying she is also "hoping more kids will come out for lacrosse now."

While recognition is for boys and girls high school club level only, there will be a fall clinic held through the PYA beginning Sept. 20 for all Pickerington youth, elementary through high school age, interested in improving their skills or just learning the basics of the game. 

Additional information is available at www.pyaa.org, or by e-mailing Mike Lord at mlord@insight.rr.com with questions.

Paulus noted that the lacrosse club will soon have a better idea if it will be able to field individual teams from each high school or will have to continue with a combined team for the 2010 season.

Since its inaugural season in 2004, Pickerington Lacrosse has been represented by single, unified teams - one each boys and girls. Until there is the ability of both high schools to field individual teams, the district will be represented by unified teams drawn of students from both high schools.

Recognition as a school sport will now allow Pickerington lacrosse players to earn an athletic letter for their varsity team achievements as well as make it possible to compete for college scholarships.

As a recognized sport, student athletes will be required to meet academic eligibility requirements, participate in pre-season and random drug testing events determined by the district and adhere to all school standards and rules.

The Lacrosse Club will be responsible for all coach staffing, following district requirements and standards, and reimbursing the district for any costs for such things as in-season drug testing, field maintenance and possible administrative costs that the district does not currently pay.

Currently, field maintenance costs are estimated to be $3,500 for the 2010 season, and will be re-assed as necessary every year. In case of inclement weather, the athletic director will determine which field the lacrosse team will use. The plan is for at least four varsity games to be played in the stadium. Other high school fields will be scheduled for additional home games.

The club also will pay the salary of coaches, insurance, officials for home games, equipment and uniforms, though the athletic director will have final approval of club choices and transportation, as scheduled by the district..

The Lacrosse Club is made up of parents of district lacrosse players. The 2009 lacrosse season cost each high school player $190 to participate.

High school lacrosse is a spring season sport.

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