November 16, 2011 THE VILLADOM TIMES IV • Page 7 Ramsey While lacrosse is just starting to take hold in Ramsey, the sport has a rich tradition in North America dating back to the 1630s. Rooted in Native American religion, lacrosse was often played to resolve conflicts, heal the sick, and develop strong virile men. The game also served as a preparation for war, often including hundreds of players spread out over fields of up to 15 miles in length and lasting for days. Basic rules were adopted in 1867, and the Lawrenceville School in New Jersey was one of the first high schools to field a team in 1882. While men and women play a dif- ‘Fastest game on foot’ takes hold in borough Above: Ramsey’s girls’ lacrosse teams in action. Right: Ramsey’s boys’ team. ferent game today, the core foundation can be traced back to these origins. Lacrosse combines skills used in many sports, including basketball, soccer, and hockey. Quickness and speed are two sought-after traits, but players come in all shapes and sizes. Lacrosse is the fastest growing sport at the NCAA level, with 557 college teams in 2009. In addition, there are over 500 college club programs including nearly 200 women’s teams that compete at the U.S. Lacrosse Intercollegiate Associates level. High schools have seen the number of players grow to over 228,000. Since 2001, the youth participation has grown 138 percent to nearly 300,000 kids. Ramsey’s spring clinic attracted over 130 players in kindergarten through grade six. The travel program, which started this spring, had 70 players split among three teams: boys in grades three and four, boys in grades five and six, and girls in grades three and four. Participants successfully competed against other players, some of whom had two or three years of experience. This year, Ramsey’s lacrosse organizers will be expanding to include boys and girls in grades three through seven. There will be a full slate of practices, games, and tournament play to round out the season. The lacrosse community stresses fun, fitness, and fair play. Registration is currently open and will close by the end of December. For more information, visit www.ramseylacrosse.com or e-mail ramseyjrlacrosse@gmail.com. In-person registration will take place at the Finch Park Green Shed on Friday, Dec 2, from 6 to 9 p.m. and on Saturday, Dec 3, from 9 a.m. to 12 noon. Prospective players are invited to come out and experience the fastest game on foot.