HOULTON, Maine — Lacrosse is taking off and creating quite a buzz in several southern Aroostook towns this spring. The sport promotes a fast paced environment of team play.
Houlton introduced lacrosse last year through the persistence and guidance of Houlton resident Ken Ervin, who promised his young children he would try to bring the sport to the area.
His passion for the sport is undeniable. He is dedicated to building a solid foundation in hopes of lacrosse being added to the lineup of high school spring sports.
“The introduction of lacrosse to The County continues to grow in players, families, and community support,” Ervin said. “Bangor, John Bapst, Hampden Academy, and Nokomis have all started boys and girls high school teams. It is only a matter of time before lacrosse moves north and is added to the roster of high school spring season sports.”
The lacrosse season runs from May 1 to June 30. Ervin said his dream would be for lacrosse to be added to Houlton Middle-High School as a spring sport at some point in the future. But he recognizes that challenge may be difficult.
“I have not approached the district,” he said. “Although we have expanded this year to have a boys seventh and eighth-grade team, our club is primarily comprised of third through sixth grade players. If our players continue next year and more come out and are committed then we will approach the district.”
Showing sustained growth could go a long way in promoting the sport at the high school level. The group acknowledged it also would need to provide some source of funding as starting up a varsity program could be very costly.
Ervin acknowledged the addition of lacrosse at the high school level could have an impact on existing spring sports, but he feels there are enough students trying different things to make it work.
“Although not every student plays sports, there are enough in the area that could support all boys and girls spring sports,” he said.
As it stands right now, the total number of players has increased from 34 last season to 54 this season, with families from Mars Hill and Presque Isle joining youth from the greater Houlton community.
The Northern Maine Moose Lacrosse Club currently features five teams — grade 3/4 girls, 5/6 girls, 3/4 boys, 5/6 boys, and 7/8 boys.
The Moose have been fortunate in receiving grant money to help build and replenish the equipment needs for the teams. Houlton Rotary recently presented the Moose with a $2,000 grant, which goes back into creating cost effective opportunities for the youngsters.
The Moose will host a tournament on Sunday, June 3, with both boys and girls teams playing against teams from Newport and Bangor. Games will run all day, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the Maliseet Field.
“The Maliseets continue to provide a fantastic facility for teams like the Moose,” said parent Darcy Lorom. “The Maliseets have formed somewhat of a partnership with the club, that has helped create successful opportunities for our players. Their fields are impeccable, the area is perfect to host large numbers, and they believe in giving back to the surrounding communities in building positive experiences for our youth. We could not have a better atmosphere for our kids to play.”
This is only the second year lacrosse has been offered in the area and as numbers continue to increase, so does the commitment to keeping it all going.
“What draws our family to lacrosse, and helping Ken, is how fast the game is, subbing players in and out, kids consistently playing different positions — every game is exciting,” said parent Pete Howe. “As a volunteer, and a parent, I enjoy watching the kids get better every practice and game. They make new friends with kids from all over southern Aroostook, and are truly having fun — which is awesome.”
Kristie Fitzpatrick added, “Our family loves the positive atmosphere. The boys love learning a new sport with their friends.”
As the sport continues to grow, that means many brand new players learning a sport with which they have had little to zero exposure.
”Lacrosse is fast paced and really fun to watch,” said parent Danielle Kenney. “I really love the family feel of the lacrosse club. Parents step in to help out whenever and wherever they can. It is a relaxed atmosphere, not all about winning. It promotes team building, good sportsmanship, and having fun. My daughter is new this year and is loving the sport. She has never felt intimidated, since it is new and everyone is still learning the rules/skills of the game. She is building confidence, along with new friendships. Ken is truly amazing. We appreciate Ken and his family for all of the hard work they have done to bring this sport to our community.”
Ervin, through a collaboration with the Houlton Recreation Department, will host a Lacrosse Clinic July 13-16. Contact the recreation department for more information and to register at 532-1310.
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- Alex Collins makes as a save as the goalie for the Maine Moose girls lacrosse squad. (Darcy Lorom)
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- Sara Howe, left, of the Maine Moose girls lacrosse team tussles for the ball during a recent match. (Darcy Lorom)
