Central players make financial commitment

The Southeast Missouri State intramural field was a little muddy Friday night.

That didn't matter to the members of the Central lacrosse club.

The third-year club, which plays at the junior varsity level of the Missouri Scholastic Lacrosse Association, played its only home contest of the year. And the result was a winner: 7-3 over Wentzville.

"It's a big comfort to be at home under the lights with a big crowd," said Will Browne, a senior and a captain for the team. "We get a lot of support from the community."

That community support also helps the lacrosse team with fund raising. Since the club is affiliated with the high school in name only, the players are responsible for their costs. Each team member pays for his equipment, the cost of travel to games that mostly take place in the St. Louis area and club dues of $150.

"Every kid has to pay for everything," Central coach Andy Mudd said. "The school only provides the name on the jersey."

Browne said that only raises the commitment of the team, helping in the long run.

"The cost is somewhat overwhelming at first," said Browne, who joined the team as a sophomore when it formed in 2003. "Right now, we don't have a lot of young players, but that is the way to do it: Start early and lessen the cost."

Central, which improved to 3-1 with the win, next plays 5:30 p.m. Wednesday in Arnold, Mo., against Fox.