Lacrosse Day showcases Oceanside’s youth teams

Oceanside Youth Lacrosse hosted its annual Lacrosse Day last month, as more than a dozen local boys’ and girls’ teams competed against neighboring rivals.

This year, Oceanside Youth Lacrosse has 13 total squads — for both boys and girls — comprising more than 200 players that range in age from first to eighth grade. The volunteer organization’s teams — in existence for more than a decade — compete in the Nassau County Police Activity League from March to June.

The event, held at Oceanside High School on April 29, coincided with the Boys’ Varsity team’s game with Baldwin, and though the Sailors dropped their contest to the Bruins, 10-7, the younger players were able to showcase their skills for their parents and other community members.

Ron Kraemer, co-president of the club since 2013, said many Oceanside High School lacrosse players began playing in PAL, and some have come back to coach for and practice with the youth teams. High school and middle school coaches often attend Lacrosse Day to support the youth program, he added.

“It’s just kind of a way for everyone to be together,” Kraemer said. “We feel really good that we’re trying to teach the kids the game of Lacrosse [and] give them a positive experience in Oceanside.”

Kraemer, who played high school lacrosse and ultimately continued the sport in college, said Oceanside didn’t have youth lacrosse when he was growing up, and that those interested didn’t start until sixth grade.

“To give them an opportunity to play in first and second grade to spark an interest and an enjoyment,” he said, “it’s great for us.”