It’s a rainy, cold, Tuesday night. I’m heading over to Lawrence Road Middle School in Uniondale where a free clinic is being held for youth boys and girls. I’m expecting a couple boys and girls, with a hand full of parents in the stands. Instead, I show up to a gymnasium full of High School aged Varsity players working with  dozens of boys and girls. The stands are packed with parents curious, excited, and some unsure of what to expect.

Some boys and girls are picking up a stick for the first time, others picking up a stick for the 5th time that day. It was such an amazing site to see. High School aged boys and girls dedicating their time to developing younger players within their communities. A big part of tonight’s success was thanks to Coach Hugo Charles, the Men’s Varsity Coach for Uniondale. Coach Charles understands the importance of developing quality youth program, creating a lacrosse culture in the community he coaches, and making sure his current HS players dedicate their time to helping those who luck up to them!

Coach Hugo Charles addressing the group after tonight’s free clinic in Uniondale, NY

I’m humbled by the opportunity to work with such generous and passionate coaches. I look forward to continue helping spread the game of lacrosse on Long Island, helping build youth programs in towns such as Uniondale, and working with such valuable coaches, such as Hugo Charles. To me, the value of a HS coach shouldn’t be gaged by how many wins or losses he or she has. It should be judged by the impact they have on their community, their players, and their sport.