Nantucket’s positive environment is largely defined by its willingness to embracingly welcome teams of varying ages over to the islands throughout the spring. In doing that, Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard are able to showcase just how unique their MBYLL niche is and make the ferry ride over something players and parents look forward to.
In the past, players and parents did not always look forward to the trip out to the islands. That sentiment generally had roots in the travel and time commitment required, as the obligation extended beyond a drive down the nearest highway.
“It’s going to be a boat in the morning, a bus ride to the event, and they're back home on a later boat, so it’s an all day type of thing to see an hour and 15 minute game,” Joe Gamberoni, director of Nantucket Youth Lacrosse, says. “That’s what we do on the mainland on a normal basis, so it’s not crazy for us. But a lot of parents on the other side will say ‘I can’t believe we have to devote the whole day to this one game’.”
While those concerns are understandable, Gamberoni has noticed that the tides have gradually shifted in recent years. Instead of viewing the travel and time commitment as a nuisance or nag, players, coaches, and parents alike look forward to the chance of getting away for a little bit.
The experience can even extend beyond the game itself, as families sometimes turn the regular season game into a mini-vacation on the island. After all, there are worse places to go spend the weekend and enjoy some lacrosse.
“And just this year I started to see the pendulum swing to the other side where we’ll have a barbecue afterwards, we’ll bring you back down to the ferry, we’ll store your bags, we’ll show you where the pizza joint is, and make it a whole day
event,” Gamberoni says. “It doesn’t have to hurt—it can actually be a lot of fun.”
Todd Franks’ Mashpee Youth Lacrosse U15 Classic was one team this past spring that got to experience all the fun that accompanies a game out on Nantucket. They played Nantucket’s U15 Classic Team, whose select counterpart won the U15 Division II Championship at Ft. Devens. Enticed by the beautiful setting and intense competition, his players circled the date on their calendars and were champing at the bit to board the ferry.
“The kids love going to the islands,” says Franks. “It’s a chance to get away and not be on the mainland. You would think since Mashpee is on the Cape we would be on the islands more, but we really don’t go there that much. It’s a nice
16 The Scoop / Summer '15