News Summary

Houlton, Maine, is abuzz as the Northern Maine Moose prepare to kick off their first varsity lacrosse season. With a robust growth in participation, a dedicated coaching staff, and a strong commitment to community, the Moose are poised for success on the field. The addition of varsity lacrosse is not only a huge milestone for the team but also a significant step forward for the sport in Houlton. As they prepare for the challenges ahead, the focus will be on building teamwork and skill development.

Exciting Times for Houlton as the Northern Maine Moose Lacrosse Team Kicks Off Its First Varsity Season!

Houlton, Maine, is buzzing with excitement as the Northern Maine Moose prepares to launch its inaugural varsity season! This cooperative high school lacrosse team has been laid out with love and dedication, and now they are ready to take it to the next level. Under the guidance of coach Adam Simoes, who has been involved with many of these youthful players since they were just in the 5th or 6th grade, the Moose is well-prepped to show what they can do on the field.

A Journey of Growth

The Northern Maine Lacrosse Club has come a long way since it kicked off its first season back in 2017. Starting with just 18 kids, the club has grown remarkably in the past five years, exploding to an impressive 115 players. This dramatic increase in participation speaks volumes about the popularity of lacrosse in the area and the strong community support for these young athletes.

The youth programs span from the 1st grade all the way up to 12th grade, which has established a solid feeder system that benefits the high school team. For this upcoming season, the Moose is thrilled to welcome three new freshmen who are eager to dive right into varsity competition. Plus, with the middle school programs on the rise, the future looks bright for the Moose!

Setting the Stage for Success

Last season, the Moose chalked up a record of 5-7, yet they accomplished something truly special by hosting their very first home playoff game. This season, the coaching staff is pulling out all the stops to intensify training. With two-a-day practices during the first week, the team is laser-focused on building that all-important chemistry. Each training session emphasizes collaboration while also honing in on individual skills. Coach Simoes highlights the strong defensive prowess the team boasts, thanks to some seasoned senior players ready to mentor their less experienced teammates.

A Strong Sense of Community

At the heart of the Moose’s mission is the commitment to instill discipline and a sense of community among the players. The team cultivates an environment of support that encourages each athlete to strive for their best while also lifting up their peers. As the season approaches, the Moose participated in several scrimmages in Brewer, where they witnessed steady improvements and growing teamwork.

New Beginnings: Varsity Lacrosse Approved

Big news is on the horizon as the RSU 29 board has officially approved the addition of both boys’ and girls’ varsity lacrosse to the spring sports lineup. This means the Moose and their opponents will battle it out against teams from Class B and Class C, showcasing their skills across various regions. It’s a huge leap forward for the sport’s presence in Houlton!

Building a Future Together

As with any new venture, costs are a factor. The lacrosse club is committed to covering all initial expenses, projecting about $40,000 for the first season. However, plans are in the works for a shared cost model with RSU 29 for the next two seasons, after which the district will take over all funding responsibilities. This kind of collaboration is paving the way for more opportunities and fostering local pride while sparking an interest in lacrosse among students.

With the Northern Maine Moose gearing up for what promises to be an exhilarating season, it’s clear that this team is not just about the sport; it is also about building character and opportunities for young athletes in the community. So, lace up those cleats, Houlton! The Moose are ready to make their mark!

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