April 13, 2009

The Pirate's lacrosse team is beginning to take shape and the hard work and long hours Coach Ernst has put in the past few months are beginning to pay off. The excitement of being not only the first men's varsity team ever at Southwestern but also in the state of Texas has numerous people intrigued and yearning to be a part of this historic program.

Ernst received his first in state commitment in March from St. John's High School attack standout Edward Williams. A big presence on the field at 5'11" 245 lbs, Williams led his team in scoring his junior year with 49 goals for St. John's, a perennial state playoff team with a tradition of sending players to DI and DIII programs.

Other top notch national programs were considered by Williams before verbally committing to Southwestern. Several factors went into his decision including feeling honored to be the first recruit at the first varsity college lacrosse program in Texas. It seems as if history is repeating itself as Williams' high school team, where his father coached for many years, was the first lacrosse team in Texas. "Having played for Select Teams, Champ Camp teams, and at Top 205 all in the east," states Williams, "it is amazing to be part of establishing a competitive program in my home state...you can't beat being in Texas."

Williams felt the combination of Southwestern's strong academics and an enthusiastic and proven coach helped seal the deal. "Friends and family can continue to see me play and the team grow. Not many players from Texas can say that...until now. I'm looking forward to working hard and getting that first win for Southwestern."

Elliott Kelly from Keller, Texas has also solidified his decision to attend Southwestern and Coach Ernst continues close in on verbal commitments from other top recruits in and out of state.

In addition to the recruits, Southwestern has also secured a 2-year sponsorship deal with Harrow Sports. Harrow Sports, a Denver-based manufacturer of athletic equipment and apparel, will serve as the official equipment and apparel supplier of the first-ever program.

When asked about the new relationship, Southwestern Head Coach Joe Ernst stated, "We are extremely happy with our partnership with Harrow Sports. Harrow is becoming a household name in the lacrosse world, and the quality of their equipment line is very impressive. We have had great success recruiting for next year and our schedule is shaping up to be a very competitive one. We look forward to taking the field with Harrow by our side."

The Pirates will hit the field in the fall of 2009 and have their first collegiate competition in the Spring of 2010.