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Washington Lacrosse Community Unites to Honor Tyler Lucas

February 9, 2011 - National Lacrosse League (NLL)
Washington Stealth News Release


Everett, Wash. - On February 1, 2011, the Washington lacrosse community suffered the tragic loss of Tyler Lucas, an All-Star defenseman for the Issaquah Lacrosse Club. Lucas died in an automobile accident on I-405, but throughout his life he inspired his teammates and opponents with an unrivaled love of the game and the joyful spirit he brought to both life and lacrosse. The Washington lacrosse community will gather on February 12, during the Washington Stealth game versus the Edmonton Rush at the Comcast Arena, to celebrate Lucas's life in the only way fitting: at a lacrosse game.

At the Stealth game on February 12, members of the Washington lacrosse community are encouraged to wear their team jersey as the community comes together as one to celebrate the life of one of its players. There will be a video celebration of Lucas's life, with his parents, Jim and Patty, placing "TL17" decals on the helmets of Stealth Captain Jason Bloom and Stealth forward and Stealth Lacrosse Academy Field Director Lewis Ratcliff.

The "TL17" decals were created in Lucas's honor, representing the passion and dedication he instilled in so many throughout the Washington lacrosse community. Washington lacrosse teams throughout the 2011 season will wear the decals, with the Stealth being the first to wear the decal on February 12. The decals will be sold during the game, with the proceeds benefitting the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation at the request of the Lucas family.

To those who play the game, lacrosse is known as "The Creator's Game". As early as the 5th Century, lacrosse played a major role in the community and spiritually for North American tribes. The game was played with the goal of bringing glory and honor to its players and their tribes. It was a ceremonial ritual to give thanks to "The Creator". While life and the sport have evolved over the past 1600 years, many of its values and the bond between its players remain the same.

Lucas exemplified the spirit of "the Creator's Game" for a community bound by the sport, spanning the area throughout Western Washington. His work ethic and dedication were incomparable, as he overcame obstacles, such as diabetes, to become an All-Star at Issaquah, a member of the West Coast Starz, Seattle Starz, Team Washington, the Stealth Lacrosse Academy and was accepted at NCAA Division II Dominican University to play lacrosse.

For more information on Tyler Lucas and "TL17", visit www.TL17.org.



National Lacrosse League Stories from February 9, 2011


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