Correspondence from Juan de Fuca Lacrosse Association Re: Letter of Support

Juan de Fuca Lacrosse Association

Require "letter of support" as we apply for 2013 Gaming Grants

March 1, 2013

The Juan de Fuca Lacrosse Association will be applying for the Direct Access Gaming Grant to assist in further development and expansion of amateur lacrosse for youth in the Westshore, Sooke and View Royal Communities. We have been in existence for almost 40 years, operating with a large number of dedicated volunteers and many valued community businesses.

Our association performs an extremely important function in the lives of its players. Our mandate is to promote, teach and encourage the game of lacrosse regardless of ability or social economics while instilling respect for all coaches, players, officials and spectators. The sport is physically demanding and players are encouraged to work hard, stay focused and motivate teammates. The health benefits and life skills attained by participants are invaluable.

Our athletes range from five to eighteen years of age and we employed approximately 60 youth referees last year.

Before the start of the 2012-13 season, JDF Executive voted on a minimal increase to registration fees, this was a direct result of losses in sponsorship and gaming funds. The BC Government cautions all organizations grants should never be relied upon, as they are only designed to subsidize programs. The funds help with maintaining our referee program, floor rentals costs, replacement of worn out equipment, jerseys and nets.

We require letters of support in order to apply for gaming funds this year. It is imperative that we continue providing youth with these types opportunities. This grant enables us to keep this vision viable.

Thank you in advance for support of our application.

Kind Regards,

Juan de Fuca Lacrosse Association, Westshore Lacrosse Sherri Bourne, Director of Gaming