By Brian McCready, Milford Bureau Chief

MILFORD — About 50 young lacrosse players asked the Board of Education this week to give their sport a shot at becoming a varsity high school activity.

Members of the Milford Youth Lacrosse league attended Monday night’s school board meeting. League President Scott McGinley said the league was formed in 2005 and has more than 250 participants from kindergarten through eighth grade.

After eighth grade, there are no public school opportunities for students to continue playing lacrosse. He said most neighboring communities, including Stratford, West Haven, Amity and New Haven, offer lacrosse.

Acting Superintendent of Schools R. Michael Cummings offered the lacrosse enthusiasts some hope.

“I thought the group had a strong presentation. I am having staff taking a look at the numbers and we will then meet with the lacrosse parents to discuss this,” Cummings said Tuesday. “I do know that there have been other groups who have expressed a similar need to start a program. The board will have to consider all the requests, and our financial state, when making a decision. We certainly support the idea of providing more resources for students.”

McGinley estimated the program would cost the district $22,000 yearly, including transportation costs. He said the MYL would help offset the costs.

Daniel Murray, 14, who wore his lacrosse jersey, said he fell in love with the sport while playing in his backyard.

“Not having it in the schools, it’s really sad,” Daniel said. “I believe it’s one of the better sports. It’s just so much fun.”

Andre Rosales, 12, said one of the reasons he is considering attending a private high school is because the city high schools do not offer the program. Continued...

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“It’s a great sport,” Andre said. “People who like soccer and hockey would like lacrosse.”

Parent William Vitelli said sports allow youths to have mentors, improve their health and learn discipline.

“Let them be a part of a team,” Vitelli told school board members.

Contact Brian McCready at 203-789-5719 or bmccready@newhaven

register.com.

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