Atlantic Adaptive Lacrosse kicks off second season Aug. 1

Atlantic Adaptive Lacrosse has announced the start of its second season, with the first practice scheduled for 6 to 7:30 p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 1, at Cape Henlopen High School in Lewes.

The goal of AAL is to offer athletes with physical, cognitive and non-apparent differences a true lacrosse experience, adapting the game to each player’s needs and strengths, and building friendships and confidence through team play. Practices will take place Wednesday evenings in August and Saturday mornings in September, concluding with a U.S. Lacrosse-sponsored play day hosting programs from all over the country Saturday, Sept. 29, at Cape Henlopen High School.

Atlantic Adaptive Lacrosse was started by a team of committed lacrosse enthusiasts in search of greater diversity and inclusion in the sport. The first season ran in fall 2017, and included more than a dozen players and over 20 volunteers. Participant Sara Perrotta said, “I was nervous at first, but once I started playing with all the girls, it was so much fun, and I knew I could do it, and now it’s easy!"

This season’s program will bring together lacrosse players of all ages and abilities, with the goal of making lacrosse accessible to all, growing the sport of lacrosse and creating fun team play. 

Volunteer Bridget Cosgrove, a peer partner who works with participants, said, "I love the game of lacrosse and especially love the idea of expanding it so more kids can play. The best part for me has been watching our players become more confident and to see themselves as part of a team." 

Lyn Shoop, AAL coordinator and coach, said, “We are making lacrosse accessible for children and young adults with physical, cognitive and non-apparent differences, so ‘AAL’ can play.”

To learn more about the program, go to www.atlanticlacrosse.org/adaptive/. The program is sponsored fully by Atlantic Lacrosse, so there is no cost to participants. All players will receive a jersey, lacrosse stick and equipment, in addition to hours of fun playing lacrosse. Participants aged 5 to 25 years old and all ability levels are welcome to be a part of the program.