He envisions a future that offers boys and girls the opportunity to learn and enjoy the sport of lacrosse. Christian Farland, president of New Bedford Youth Lacrosse, was a guest on The Phil Paleologos Show and shared his hopes, plans and sense of purpose to organize a youth lacrosse league on the SouthCoast that would provide a safe and fun environment for kindergarten through eighth-grade boys and girls to learn and play the popular sport.

Christian's enthusiasm is so passionate that after a decade of serving as president of the South Coast Business Alliance, he is stepping aside to help start up this new league.

Lacrosse is a fast-paced and interesting sport with a high demand for energy and stamina, that combines the skills of hockey, basketball, football, and soccer all rolled into one thrilling sport.

They are looking for used boys' and girls' lacrosse equipment to be donated. If needed, they'll gladly pick up the equipment or it can be dropped off at the Farland Corporation, located at 401 County Street in New Bedford. New equipment is quite expensive, as much as $300 per player, so you can see why there's a need for your benevolence. Area businesses can also donate whatever is possible in cash contributions. Coaches are needed, too.

Size doesn't matter. Bring the kids by a free winter indoor clinic on Sunday, January 12, Sunday, Jan. 26 and Sunday, Feb. 23 at Gomes Elementary School in New Bedford, with K-6 boys meeting 9-11 a.m. and K-8 girls meeting at 12:00-2 p.m. As for equipment, boys please bring as much as you have. There will be some extra if you need to borrow, and for girls, please bring a stick, sneakers and goggles.

Sign up on their New Bedford Youth Lacrosse Facebook page or on the organization's website.  Call 774 - 888 - 8306. The kids need not have any experience.

Lacrosse is a great sport, especially locally, that goes back to the 17th century. Originally known as "stickball," lacrosse was first played by Native American Indians. Early events attracted thousands of players and went on for days. The players were said to take on the role of warriors who would bring honor to their tribes with a win.

Let us bring a similar honor to the SouthCoast, and help support this worthy effort.

Phil Paleologos is the host of The Phil Paleologos Show on 1420 WBSM New Bedford. He can be heard weekdays from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. Contact him at phil@wbsm.com and follow him on Twitter @PhilPaleologos. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author.

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