ACU’s lacrosse team had its first interest meeting before Thanksgiving break to discuss plans for creating a men’s team and future competitions.
Last year an attempt to create a lacrosse team failed because of poor timing and lack of interest.
Parker Tennet, freshman nursing major from Houston, decided he would like to pursue the sport outside of high school and contacted people to help get a club started. Tennet said he is unsure how the creation of a team will play out.
“During our first interest meeting about 20 guys showed up,” Tennet said. “Since then, more people have been contacting me saying they would like to join. So I would say about 20-30 guys are interested. Because of that we are not sure if the team will just be sign up or tryout. If the numbers keep increasing it will have to be tryout.”
The club would compete in the Mens Collegiate Lacrosse Associastion in the Lone Star Alliance conference most likely starting out as a Division II team for the first few years. Potential teams the club would play include: Stephen F. Austin, Sam Houston, St. Edwards, Austin College, University of Houston and Oklahoma State.
Aaron Johnson, junior CIND art and psychology major from Oakton, VA, is also helping Tennet create the team. Johnson said he hopes the team creates a memorable experience for those who join.
“I hope the team can provide a new and exciting experience to young athletic men and women,” Johnson said. “The sport really is in a league of it’s own. There is nothing quite like it.”
Chad Karels, sophomore marketing major from Colleyville, said he thinks the team is a great idea.
“Even though I don’t play lacrosse, I think it’d be a great opportunity for those who want to play and support a sport that’s relatively new to the area,” Karels said.
There is no official way to sign up yet because the team is still in the process of becoming officially recognized by ACU. If students are interested, Tennet said they should contact him via either Facebook or email him at plt11a@acu.edu.
“I just want these guys to fall in love with the game of lacrosse like I have,” Tennet said. “It’s such a fun and unique sport, but does not get a lot of exposure. I also want them to build a sense of team camaraderie that all sports teams have.”
