Participating in high school sports can have a positive impact on students. For instance, students can learn how to manage their time between practices, games, and homework, and they can hone their leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. Not only do students use these skills in the classroom, but they will also use them in the workplace.

Matt McAlpine became head coach of the boys' lacrosse team at Hempfield High School (HHS) five years ago. McAlpine wanted to teach the boys self-discipline and make them realize that they are accountable for their actions both inside and outside of school.

"The coach's philosophy is putting God first, then family, then team, and then self, so he's trying to build more than just a lacrosse team; he's trying to teach the kids how to be better people," explained Erika Neiderer, a member of the HHS boys' lacrosse booster club.

To aid in the continuation of the boys' lacrosse program at HHS, the booster club will host its second annual designer purse bingo fundraiser for people age 18 and older. The event will take place on Sunday, April 24, outdoors at the pavillion at VFW Post 5752, 125 Longenecker Road, Mount Joy. The doors will open at 11 a.m., and bingo will begin at noon. The cost of entry will include a door prize ticket and 15 rounds of bingo. For an additional cost, attendees can participate in giveaways and a special bingo game. Prizes will be purses from Coach, Kate Spade, Michael Kors, and more. Boys on the lacrosse team will assist the booster club with setting up and running the event. Some of them will even model the purses and walk around to show them off.

"This event will give people the opportunity to get to know some of the kids, know some of the parents, support something local, and maybe win some pretty cool purses," stated McAlpine.

Daubers, additional bingo cards, snacks, and light refreshments will be available for purchase. Tables will be reserved for tickets purchased for parties of eight or more people. All other seating will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis. People might be seated outside of the pavilion, so it is recommended that attendees bring lawn chairs to help maintain social distancing.

McAlpine said he believes that the team is successful because the kids buy into the program and are backed by the community. "We have great community support and great school support, so I think that's really what makes us who we are," he noted. "What I'm looking forward to this season is the boys getting better every day, and right now, that's really the goal. But ultimately, we'd like to make some noise at playoffs and try to go further than we have in the past."

To prepurchase tickets, search for "Hempfield Boy's Lacrosse Designer Purse Bingo Fundraiser" on http://www.eventbrite.com. Tickets will also be available at the door. To learn more about the booster club, search for "Hempfield Boys Lacrosse Booster Club" on Facebook.