District 214 to launch lacrosse program in 2020-21

High School District 214 will launch a districtwide lacrosse program that will begin in the 2020-2021 school year.

The new, IHSA-sanctioned sports program will be open to both boys and girls. Levels will be determined based on interest.

The creation of the new program comes after input from both parents and students. Lacrosse is among the fastest-growing sports in the United States, according to a 2018 Sport & Fitness Industry Association report, and completed its second season as an IHSA-sanctioned sport this past spring.

"This new lacrosse program is the direct result of community collaboration. We know how important it is to create opportunities for students to develop leadership skills and character, and to build social skills such as teamwork and communication," said Dan Petro, president of the District 214 board of education.

"Our goal is to be responsive to the needs of the community, and involve community members in our decision-making process. We are grateful to our staff for putting this program together."