During the winter of 2004/2005 a few local residents with lacrosse experience got together and held an interest meeting to determine the feasibility of starting a youth program. With over 50 people attending the meeting we decided to field a U13 boys team to compete in the Hampton Roads Youth Lacrosse League in Virginia. We had several highly knowledgeable, enthusiastic coaches that first year including; John Macko, John Van Lunen, Brook Zeleny, Rich Rollason, and Rick Schneck. In addition, we were led by our general manager, David Jernigan.

The first year we were successful in recruiting a strong foundation of players and getting a handful of victories. The players’ dedication was evident by their having to drive an hour and a half every Saturday for games. Their hard work showed up in the win column where we won three games. In our second season we added a U15 team. Although they went through similar first year pains (recruiting players and starting from scratch with them) they finished the season strong. Season three saw the makings of a J.V. team which played three games and won all three. Last year the three teams consisted of over 50 players.

From day one we’ve stressed the purity of the game. This means we focus on skills, fundamentals, and tactics. We play hard and respect the game. We constantly strive to find quality coaches and players who want to help make the team better.

The success of OBX Lacrosse has been dependant upon many people throughout the community and although we’ll probably leave out a few names it’s important to recognize as many as possible. Besides the players and coaches a program doesn’t go far without dedicated parents. Between driving all over the place, volunteering time, making donations, to paying for equipment and registration our parents have answered every call. Cliff Ogburn and his staff at Dare County Parks and Recreation welcomed us to their fields with open arms since day one and, frankly, we couldn’t have started this program without them. It’s obvious how hard they work to keep their facilities top notch. With outstanding turf, concessions, and lights our fields are the class of the league. The local media have also been very important in representing this obscure sport to the public. Thanks to the Sentinel, Coastland Times, and local radio stations who have interviewed us and relayed public service announcements. Their assistance does not go unnoticed. Dare County Public Schools have assisted us in sending recruitment flyers out. Many local companies donate food and drink for us to sell in the concessions booth at home games. The profits have all gone back in to the program. Finally, thanks to all the people and businesses who have donated money to us over the years. Your generosity has helped us to spread the great game of lacrosse to the Outer Banks.

We’ve made a lot of new friends along the way. Our goal is to get bigger and better.