District 205 approved the sport of lacrosse at York Community High School as an official, Illinois High School Association (IHSA) sport, beginning with the 2010-11 school year. Lacrosse will be offered to boys and girls during the spring season. Participants will be expected to pay all fees associated with the sport, including transportation, officials, field rentals, entry fees, equipment, salaries and any other unforeseen expenses.

 

“While we are unable to provide our lacrosse athletes a district-funded program due to our current economic conditions, we wanted to recognize them for their dedication by supporting their status as an IHSA-sanctioned sport,” said Board President Peggy Ostojic.

 

Currently offered as a club sport for boys and girls at York, the official designation will offer athletes access to district sports facilities as the schedule permits and will allow the athletic department to monitor attendance, eligibility and compliance with the code of conduct. In addition, athletes will also be eligible to participate in IHSA competitions and have the potential to compete for state recognitions.

 

 “Our goal is to provide quality interscholastic opportunities for the students at York High School and the addition of boys and girls lacrosse helps support that mission,” said Athletic Director John Rutter.

 

The IHSA approved lacrosse as an official State Series sport on October 13, prompting high schools to consider a similar course of action. Other area schools that are approving the addition of lacrosse as a school sport include Glenbard West, Hinsdale Central, Lyons Township and Oak Park/River Forest.