HISTORY OF THE APPLETON LACROSSE CLUB
The Appleton Lacrosse Club is an organization made up of student athletes from the three Appleton Area School District High Schools and Xavier High School.
In the summer of 2003, a small group of scrappy boys from West & North High Schools bought sticks and started tossing a ball around with grand plans to have lacrosse recognized as a school sport.
Six months later Coach Mike Wenzel corralled the boys and helped put some structure to their vision. The boys finished the inaugural 2004 season with two wins, and laid a foundation for the Club that remains today.
Two seasons later, the Club had an amazing 16-0 record and the 2006 WLF State Championship! Also in 2006, the Club was formally organized as a not-for-profit entity (and in 2010 the Club received its IRS designation as a 501 (c) (3) charitable organization). Coach Eric Marsh took over the reigns in 2010 & added a stylish twist.
In 2013, the club expanded to include a High School girls team and the Appleton Area School District formally recognized Appleton United High School boys and girls lacrosse as co-curricular club sports. The girls team was an AASD co-curricular club team from 2013-2017 comprised of students from Appleton East, Appleton North and Appleton West. Coach Melina Zielski & Coach Susie Tucker led the first girl’s team.
In 2014, the club expanded again to add a youth boys team which quickly grew from a dozen players to 4 teams.
In 2017, the club welcomed the addition of the youth girls team.
In 2022, we grew at the youth level and transitioned our HS programs to their own clubs in preparation of the approval of lacrosse as a recognized sport in the 2024 season.
We look forward to many rewarding seasons in the future and applaud the efforts of the fine athletes that contribute their talent and energy, the parents who support their child's dedication to the sport of lacrosse, and our sponsors, fans and friends that make the Appleton Lacrosse Club a success.
Honoring Bob Sternhagen
Bob's contributions to Appleton United began in 2004.
As an avid lacrosse fan , Bob was dedicated to supporting his son Garrett. 4 years later his son, Bryce, followed by his nephews Mason and Quinn Countney.
Bob served on the board as Vice President from 2009-2012 , however he was most proud and passionate about being on the side lines as the team's Emergency Medical Technician.
Players, Coaches and parents always felt safe with Bob's expertise and calm demeanor.
Bob was looking forward to his Nephew Quinn's last season as a senior. However in November 2016, Bob passed away after a brief battle with a cancerous brain tumor.
Bob is sadly missed by all.
WE RAISE OUR STICKS IN MEMORY OF BOB!
GO APPLETON UNITED !
Bob Sternhagen