Teenagers in Penarth are beating the freezing weather by getting their energy levels red hot thanks to the innovative 5×60 scheme, with lacrosse the latest sport to take local secondary schools by storm.
More than 40 pupils from St Cyres Comprehensive and Stanwell School have relished the chance to have a go at the fast-paced sport since it was added to the roster of extra-curricular activities available as part of the scheme, which aims to encourage youngsters to get active for at least 60 minutes, five days a week (5×60).
Lacrosse fits in perfectly with the scheme’s aims, giving pupils the opportunity to get fit while having fun trying out something new during lunchtimes and after school. The 5×60 scheme is run by Sport Wales and is supported locally by the Vale of Glamorgan Council’s sports and play development team.
5×60 Officer Pete O’Sullivan works in both Penarth schools, and said: “Pupils from both schools have really taken to lacrosse and have shown a huge amount of enthusiasm, even braving blizzards to play the game.”
Pete has called upon the expertise of experienced lacrosse coach Tom Gebhard to help run the sessions. Originally from Milwaukee in the USA, Tom is passing on his wealth of knowledge by working as a development officer for Penarth Lacrosse Club, raising the profile of the sport in South Wales.
Lacrosse was first created by Native Americans, and the sport is naturally played much more widely across the Atlantic in both the USA and Canada. However, lacrosse is growing rapidly in popularity across Europe, and the Lacrosse World Championships were held earlier this year in Manchester.
Tom has been extremely impressed by the natural flair for the game that has been uncovered during the 5×60 sessions, and several pupils have since joined Penarth Lacrosse Club as a result of being introduced to it in school.
If you’d also like to have a go at lacrosse, then Penarth Lacrosse Club welcomes all newcomers. The club is the longest established lacrosse club in Wales, having been set up in 1982.To find out more please visit www.penarthlacrosse.com or call Michael Vodden on 07525 464665.
