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| Courtesy of the Hamption Lacrosse Facebook Page |
Op-Ed
by José Olivero
In the article on Hampton University fielding a Division 1 (Div 1)
program next year (see the link below), there are a lot of key points and bits of information buried
within. I agree on all the contributing factors stagnating the growth of
minorities in lacrosse, especially the cost. But, I would add another
important reason why lacrosse has not taken off in the Black and Latino communities;
there is no viable professional league. Where's the magnet? A viable
professional league is one where a player can make an excellent living and live
the life of luxury. Comparable to lacrosse, basketball, football,
baseball provide that for professional athletes. For most, lacrosse is played
as a hobby and for love of the game than as a profession. Professional
sports have always been looked as the ticket out of poverty and instant
socio-economic improvement. As a sport we're not there yet. Will we
make it, I hope so Regardless, it is good to see Hampton joining the Div 1
ranks and I wish them luck.
José Olivero
Former All American Goalie, West Point
Will Hampton University Improve Lacrosse’s
Diversity Problem?: http://inlacrossewetrust.com/will-hampton-university-improve-lacrosses-diversity-problem/
Fred Opie on José Olivero’s:
[Watch Now 3 min 29 sec] http://lacrossememoir.blogspot.com/2012/06/versatility-is-essential-in-athletic.html
As a Latino and long time lax fan, I would love to see the sport grow among Blacks/Latinos. Unfortunately, the sport has not done very much to promote itself in inner city ghettos. Small wonder why it has not grown there. Promote the sport and it will grow - it's that simple.
ReplyDeleteYou have raised a valid point that Professional sports have always been looked as the ticket out of poverty and instant socio-economic improvement.
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