Mercyhurst Athletics

ERIE, Pa. – The Mercyhurst College men’s lacrosse team won’t be playing for just the East Coast Conference title this weekend, but for something much more than that.

Head coach Chris Ryan and the Lakers set several goals at the start of this season.

The first was to capture their first conference title since 2007, which can be accomplished this Saturday with a victory over defending national champion C.W. Post.

The second goal, however, goes beyond their play on the field. The Lakers wanted to show their support and give back to all of those who have helped make the game of lacrosse what it is today.

At the beginning of the season the Lakers signed up in support of the Alpha Company 96th Aviation Support Battalion, which supports the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade in Fort Campbell, Ky.

So far the Lakers have prepared several packages to send over, but specific items are still needed to combat the elements and help the troops stay in contact with their families.

CPT Michelle Ellwood, the liaison for the Roadrunners, has communicated to the team they could “Definitely use some sunscreen and aloe vera. Items such as magazines, toiletries, candy, DVD’s, and prepaid phone cards are also appreciated.”

Ellwood reported to coach Ryan that morale is high, and the comforts of home have really helped the troops.

In addition to their involvement with the Roadrunners, the Lakers are in the works to show their support to one of their own in the lacrosse community.

Over the past 6 months lacrosse coaches across the nation, with the help of the Intercollegiate Men’s Lacrosse Coaches Association (IMLCA), have been holding various fundraising activities in support of Bellarmine University men’s lacrosse head coach Jack McGetrick’s fight against cancer.

“Everyone Works For Jack” was created to help raise funds to help pay for coach McGetrick’s treatments and other needs.

So far more than 30 teams have dedicated a game from their schedule in support of Jack McGetrich, with Mercyhurst dedicating this weekend’s game to McGetrick.

Fans attending this weekend’s game can donate to either cause by visiting a men’s lacrosse representative at the main gate before or after the game. If you would like to make a donation but will not be attending the game, please contact Chris Ryan at (814) 824-2138 or cryan@mercyhurst.edu.