A local boys lacrosse club has received a grant from U.S. Lacrosse to help young people in its community get involved in the growing sport.

White River Boys Lacrosse, which serves some 200 athletes in third grade through high school, will receive resources from U.S. Lacrosse to field teams and put on introductory clinics, ranging from equipment to coaching education, through a “First Stick” grant.

The award is the only “First Stick” grant given to a Washington state club in 2015 and one of 110 to lacrosse clubs in 37 states.

The goal is to help local youth whose families are struggling to afford the cost of youth sports try lacrosse, said Kristin Henke, co-president of the White River Lacrosse Booster Club. “We want everyone who wants to play to be able to play. It’s a community builder,” said Henke, whose program serves Foothills, Elk Ridge, Mountain Meadow, Wilkeson and Carbonado elementary schools along with Glacier Middle School and local high schools.

During the coming two years the grant will include 32 full lacrosse equipment sets valued up to $500 each; equipment includes a stick, helmet, shoulder and elbow pads, gloves and goaltender gear. Also included are coach’s training for U.S. Lacrosse certification and team-building.

The grant will also help local youth with an interest in lacrosse to participate in White River’s fall “Try Lacrosse” clinic, slated for 1 to 3 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 11, at Bonney Lake High School. The clinic costs $10 and is open to elementary and middle school boys and girls. About the clinic

WHEN: Wednesday, Nov. 11 (1–3 p.m.)

WHERE: White River High School  (26928 120th St E, Buckley, WA 98321)

WHO: Elementary School and Middle School Boys and Girls

COST: $10 per participant

IF YOU GO: Wear athletic clothing.  No equipment or prior experience necessary.