Twenty Five Year Tradition in the Lacrosse World

By- Kevin M. Neibauer

Part 1

There has been a lacrosse league in existence in Philadelphia for twenty five years. Started by Bill Malizia, the Philadelphia Box Lacrosse Association continues its storied tradition with two games every Monday and Wednesday night thru August.

Located at Rizzo Rink, the league features an eclectic mix of youth and experience. Frank Menschner, the Commissioner has missed a total of two games in that quarter century. Menschner is proud of his achievements. Not only in that league, but his experiences in the Lacrosse world. Having traveled to far away places such as Prague, Menschner plays for the love of the game.

All of the participants hold down full time jobs or attend school. Ages vary from 18 to a few guys in their 40's.

The league can boast that some of the biggest names in the Lacrosse World as alumni. Former Philadelphia Wings Bob Snider and Mickey Hover either have or are currently playing.(Part 2 will deal with some more history and a partial list of some of the greats who have found their way on the floor of Rizzo Rink)

Playing in a non-air conditioned facility under I-95 in South Philadelphia; the atmosphere is far from glamorous. Yet not a single player notices the sometimes steamy conditions and the tremendous aroma from a local Steak House.

The Lacrosse players are more of a fraternity or brotherhood. All of the participants know each other well, travel together and even throw a few back together. On the floor, they are bitter rivals. As soon as the final horn sounds, high fives and hugs permeate the floor.

Its not just Menschner who has been around for twenty five years, Walt Bujak started out as a player and was on the first Championship team. Bujak is now acting as a referee.

"I played when it was basically pick-up games; I was on the first Championship team. Lots of great times,” Bujak said. “I realized that I was getting older, definitely slower and the kids were getting bigger and better so I stopped playing and became a ref."

What is it that draws individuals such as Budaj to keep coming out? "I love the game and I won't lie, the money is nice." Money? None of the players are playing for any money but for love. The officials are the only ones that get paid.

One of the newer players is 18 year Brendan Gilligan. Gilligan is new to the game and many of the veterans have taken him under their wing, some of his mentors do not even play with his team. It is clear that Gilligan has been accepted into the PBLA family. Clearly, a blueprint has been laid out for his development. He is being brought along slowly, but is having the time of his life. To further show the Lacrosse family ties, Brendan’s mother Doreen has come on board as timekeeper/scorekeeper.

Later this week, more of the history and a partial list of the great players who have participated. Many hall of famers and current superstars proudly call themselves alumni.