Lacrosse Becoming a Reality In Middletown

Lacrosse is finally here in Middletown, thanks to a group called Lacrosse In Middletown (L.I.M).

L.I.M. is a community-based organization with a goal to get high school lacrosse teams playing competitively in Middletown high schools this spring.

L.I.M. is a 501C3 organization that is awaiting tax exempt status from the government.

L.I.M. is committed to completely funding both the boys and girls lacrosse programs at Middletown High School North and South.

Since the beginning of 2012, this group of parents and community lacrosse enthusiasts have created a strong organization based on their love of the sport knowing it will bring excitement and opportunities to many student athletes of Middletown.

Led by Chris Fisher, President and founder of LIM, the organization has really taken off.

Starting with just an idea and a dream in late 2011, Chris seized the idea to bring this sport to Middletown and went for it. "I knew this was tried a few times in the past but that didn't discourage me. I was confident if I could find the right group of like-minded volunteers we could get this thing off the ground and on the field by spring 2013."

Chris did just that by assembling a board of five additional dads who began their push for boys and girls Lax in the schools.

Working closely with the Board of Education L.I.M. has been able to accomplish many things in a short period of time.

L.I.M. has become the everything for Middletown lacrosse. Since forming they have created an organization of more than 100 families, ran 2 summer camps, 10 clinics, started two student clubs at the high schools, assembled a winter boys HS team and middle school girls team, and have currently raised over $50,000 towards this year’s team budgets.

They have held parent meetings, multiple fundraisers and found many opportunities to get the word out about lacrosse.

"We hold clinics on Thursday nights for 7th through 12th graders. Upcoming clinics for the girls are on January 3, 17 and 31. The upcoming boy’s clinics are on January 10, and 24," explained board member John Griffin.

Fundraising Committee Chairwoman Christine Lepkoski said "We have been doing well with our fundraising. L.I.M. decided to put the fundraising effort on hold the weeks following Super Storm Sandy but we know with a final push we will meet our financial goal for the kids."

January 6, 2012 is the next opportunity. "We will be hosting a pancake breakfast at Applebee's of Middletown from 8 am to 10 am. Tickets are only $10. It'll be a great time to meet some of our members and athletes while you enjoy a great breakfast."

Andy Kaiser, Vice President of L.I.M., stressed the fact that the board has really made an effort to create a long lasting organization. Based on years of business experience the members formed a cohesive group that will allow for growth and opportunity for years to follow. "We really want to give the students the best experience on and off the field."

"Our main goal is to meet the financial goals of the organization," said John Macrae.

"As the treasurer I am pleased with our efforts so far but we really hope the community will embrace us and give to the kids."

"We have a variety of ways that businesses and families can help our student athletes financially. Gift matching, equipment donation and direct donations are just a few."

With the athletes available in Middletown, great things are right around the corner. L.I.M. hopes to continue to build on what was started and create a lasting program.

If the community continues its support through donations L.I.M. is confident that the boys and girls teams of Middletown North and South will begin the quest this spring to bring championship lacrosse to the district.

On January 6th L.I.M. will be holding a pancake breakfast at the Middletown Applebees from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Tickets will be available at the door or you can pre buy tickets.

To learn how you can support the financial needs of Middletown's student-athletes contact L.I.M. at middletownnjhslacrosse@aol.com or visit us on Facebook at Lacrosse In Middletown.

Our website is middletownnjlacrosse.org. If you would like to donate to L.I.M. our address is L.I.M., PO Box 190, Middletown, NJ 07748.