Garnet Womens Lax Again Playing for a Cause
HAVERFORD, Pa. -- Swarthmore women's lacrosse makes its 2009 debut on February 28 at the 2nd annual Tri-Co Invitational. The event, co-hosted with fellow Tri-Co members Bryn Mawr and Haverford, is a one-day lacrosse festival seeking to promote awareness about autism.
The six participating schools (Widener, Neumann and Moravian are also playing) will convene at brand-new Swan Field on the campus of Haverford College on Saturday, February 28, starting at 11:00 a.m. The players are taking part in a goal-a-thon, with the proceeds going to Autism Speaks, a worldwide organization dedicated to “funding global biomedical research into the causes, prevention, treatments, and cure for autism.” The six teams will tally the total goals scored from the three games---at last year’s inaugural Tri-Co Invitational the teams raised over $6,000 to benefit Alex’s Lemonade Stand and the fight against childhood cancer.
“Playing for a cause brings our team together and is an exciting way to start the season,” said Swarthmore senior defender Kelsey Hatzell (Havertown, Pa. / Haverford). “Having a full-day event rather than a traditional two-hour game typifies the lacrosse experience.”
In 2008, the Tri-Co Invitational was put-together by Swarthmore, Haverford and Bryn Mawr, with the goal of continuing the spirit and good-will players formerly experienced in the Sevens Sisters Lacrosse Championship, a weekend tournament that for years had included like-minded liberal arts colleges Swarthmore, Bryn Mawr, Haverford, Mount Holyoke, Smith Vassar and Wellesley.
“We developed the Tri-Co Invitational with community in mind, seeking out nearby Division III schools to give it a local feel,” explained Swarthmore head coach Karen Borbee. “When playing for a cause, there comes a feeling of accomplishment. The Invitational gives the teams a sense of playing for more than just a victory on the field.”
Autism Speaks will have a tent near Swan Field during the entire Tri-Co Invitational, complete with information about autism, autism research and advocacy opportunities. When not involved with the games, lacrosse players will be present at the booth and in the stands, collecting donations while interacting with fans.
“This is one of the only times [the women] get to identify with the Tri-Co in a singular effort, rather than just playing lacrosse against each other,” said Swarthmore senior attack Marissa Schaeffer (Moreland Hill, Ohio / Laurel School).
People interested in donating to the 2nd annual Tri-Co Invitational goal-a-thon and Autism Speaks can contact Karen Borbee at (610) 328-8209 or kborbee1@swarthmore.edu
2009 Tri-Co Invitational Schedule (at Haverford College on Swan Field)
Saturday, February 28
Widener Pride at Haverford Fords 11:00 a.m.
Neumann Knights vs. Bryn Mawr Owls 1:00 p.m.
Moravian Greyhounds vs. Swarthmore Garnet 3:00 p.m.
Click here for more information about Autism Speaks.
Click here for FACTS ABOUT AUTISM