Welcome to Wallenpaupack Youth Lacrosse; “Those who play, it sticks with them for life”
HAWLEY, Pa. — Rory O’Fee shares his passion for the game and its rich heritage to bring a lacrosse community to the lake region.
Growing up playing the sport, watching the sport and loving the sport, he quickly passed it on to his son, Declan and his daughter, Savannah as soon as they were old enough to hold a lacrosse stick. When Declan enrolled in kindergarten, Rory and his wife Sarah realized the closest option available was a journey to the youth program established at Delaware Valley.
While Declan continued playing, and Rory even began coaching, the question presented itself; What if there was an option to continue playing closer to home? If Wallenpaupack needed someone to start the process, then why not themselves? Thus, a conversation with their partners at Delaware Valley and the inception of the program began.
Beginning with offering an Intro to Lacrosse course in November of 2022, Rory, Sarah and a team of dedicated individuals continued through the winter with workshops that taught a deeper knowledge of the game. By the 2023 spring season, 65 kids grades K-6 in the Wallenpaupack, Wayne Highlands and Western Wayne communities committed to the program. “The initial success was a galvanizing moment for us,” says Rory. “This opportunity became a reality that this program could and would grow.”
This year the program does continue to grow by expanding from grades K-8 with an impressive 175 kids registered for the Fall Intro Night, including Declan, now 10 years old and Savannah who is 13. Rory explains that the lacrosse community is just different. “There’s something that happens on that field that connects the brotherhood or sisterhood,” he says. “Those who play, it sticks with them for life.”
Lacrosse is a highly entertaining and spiritual game that combines athleticism, strategy and endurance. Rory explains that it is a great sport for youth and adults to play, enjoy and support at any age and experience level. With the spring season beginning Mid-March 2024, now is a great time to have a conversation with kids, friends and loved ones about joining the movement.
“I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention our volunteers,” Rory says. “This wouldn’t be possible without all their help and support. They believed in me and my wife and our vision for this program.” To ensure the youth can achieve their dreams on the field, the program is always open to those who’d like to help even if they are unfamiliar with the game. “Volunteering to help teach these kids discipline and camaraderie is the most fulfilling reward you can get as an athlete mentor.”
This is an unedited user writing submission. The views, information, or opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of Best Version Media or its employees.
