Clark Physical Therapy defender Patrick Shelton sent me information regarding his alma matter, Aurora University, moving to NCAA lacrosse starting with the 2011 season. This makes yet another Division 3 program in our geographic region and warrants consideration from our players. It is not very often that players have the opportunity to be part of a brand new program, yet I have learned of three within the last week.*Aurora University, an NCAA Division III institution, beginning in the spring of 2011 will offer a men’s varsity lacrosse team. Mark Walsh, Director of Athletics at Aurora University, said, “We have watched carefully as the sport of lacrosse has emerged in high schools and clubs in the midwest. We believe that there is sufficient interest both on campus and from prospective students to support lacrosse at Aurora University. With the sport of lacrosse played in the spring in the NCAA, we felt this sport would be a good fit and compliment for our current athletic offerings and facilities." AU will begin the programs with current student-athletes who have expressed an interest in the sport, along with incoming student-athletes. The process of identifying and selecting a head coach for the men’s program has begun as well. As dropping sports has become a welcomed trend among college athletics, AU is going against the norm. Those interested in pursuing a career in lacrosse at the college level are encouraged to contact the Aurora University Athletic Department for further information. Aurora University is a member of the Northern Athletics Conference (NAC) which began its first season of competition in the fall of 2006.Shelton even included a link to the school's Brine King II mock ups.
*I have heard rumors that at least one Division 3 school within the state of Iowa is considering adding varsity lacrosse. The reliability of these rumors is sketchy at best, but it is an interesting thought. My source did not give a specific name, but indicated that the school in question is in the Eastern portion of the state. It is likely that the rumored school would compete against both Augustana and Aurora since neither of their conferences sponsor lacrosse. However, Aurora will be a member of the Midwest Lacrosse Conference.
