It’s not easy to run an event, especially one that goes for 24 hours. So when Shootout for Soldiers, the 24 hour lacrosse event benefiting wounded American military members, announced it was expanding to Boston this winter it was clear that there was a lot of work to be done. Fortunately there’s been help from a local staple in the Massachusetts lacrosse community.
“The Boston Cannons have been fantastic,” said Lt. Colonel Michael Sullivan, Shootout for Soldiers Boston Organizer. “Everything they do just demonstrates what a first-rate organization they truly are. Not only have they been absolutely instrumental in getting the word out to everybody involved in the Boston Cannons, but also allowing us to do handouts and announcements at every one of their games.”
“The Boston Cannons have been fantastic. Everything they do just demonstrates what a first-rate organization they truly are.”
– Lt. Colonel Michael Sullivan, Shootout for Soldiers Boston Organizer
Sullivan already had a close connection to the organization through working with Erik Smith, a Cannons midfielder, on Hanscom Air Force Base. Smith had recently become the first ever player from the Air Force Academy to be drafted in Major League Lacrosse, and is an active duty second lieutenant in the Air Force.
Sullivan marveled at Smith’s ability to balance both his lacrosse career and military service, but for Smith, the two “go hand-in-hand” and help keep him in peak physical condition. In his free time Smith continues to grow the game he loves by coaching a youth team for 4 Leaf Lacrosse in New Hampshire. The program also happens to be one of the first involved in Shootout for Soldiers Boston.
Erik Smith while playing at Air Force Academy
Smith is glad to give back, and has been keen on spreading the word throughout the community. He noted the amazing support his fellow Cannons teammates have shown for the Shootout for Soldiers and how excited they are for the event to come to Boston.
Well so are we.
