As part of a diverse military community, the leadership team for Pikes Peak Lacrosse (PPL) in Colorado Springs understands the importance of helping local families overcome the barriers to lacrosse participation. They take an active approach to providing needed assistance.
“We offer full and half scholarships, equipment rentals, and utilize volunteers to help transport children back and forth to practice and games,” said Christopher Heese, president of PPL. “Our community has people from all walks of life, from military families to Natives. We do not want to turn anyone away.”
That motivation is what led Heese to coordinate PPL’s online application for an equipment grant from USA Lacrosse. This past spring, the league received new boys’ helmets to help outfit its players.
The equipment was one of 184 USA Lacrosse grants awarded in the past year to local organizations across 44 states with a total retail value of almost $370,000.
“We’re dedicated to fostering lacrosse growth and participation within our community, and receiving this grant greatly enhances our ability to provide equipment for new players and for some of our underserved youth,” Heese said. “It’s about ensuring continued growth and accessibility.”
Pikes Peak Lacrosse, a non-profit run exclusively by volunteers, had about 100 boys participating across multiple age levels this past spring. Heese notes that while teaching the game and having fun are top priorities, coaches and board members also emphasize several other benefits of participation.
“Our mission is to physically and mentally prepare our youth to become better adults through the fundamentals, the teamwork, and the community of lacrosse,” Heese said.
Free learn-to-play summer clinics, fall ball and winter box lacrosse leagues, and customized practices for goalies and face off specialists led by local high school players are all among the PPL’s year-round offerings.
“We are a fast growing city that has constant interest in lacrosse and various other sports,” Heese said. “This grant allowed us to provide equipment for youth that their families just were not able to afford. We always try to find a way for any and all children - boys and girls - to play on this team so they can learn this great game.”
Applying for a USA Lacrosse Grant
USA Lacrosse grants are designed to reduce barriers to participation, increase inclusivity, and fuel growth in communities throughout the country by awarding equipment, financial support, and educational opportunities. USA Lacrosse is currently accepting online grant applications through July 31, 2025. To learn more and to apply, please visit www.usalacrosse.com/grants.
