Meet Tim Lewis of Jets Lacrosse Club

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tim Lewis

Hi Tim, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Jets Lacrosse is a youth (K – 8th grade) lacrosse organization in Denver, CO. The club was established in the spring of 2009 by Snow Hudgins and Scott Petersen along with current and former lacrosse players and coaches who wanted to bring youth lacrosse to the area.
The Jets Lacrosse Club is a community program focused on building fundamental skills, perseverance, and teamwork in our athletes. We believe that Lacrosse is a game that teaches us lessons which go far beyond the playing field.
I have been running the program since August of 2022, with the help of some amazing families, coaches, and community members. It has been a great way for me to share my love for this incredible game with kids in the area, and continue to grow participation. Denver has become a hot bed of lacrosse in recent years, and I hope to help continue fueling that fire.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has not always been a smooth road, particularly due to the timing in which I took over the program. In the summer/fall of 2022, people were still rebounding from COVID. There was a thirst for outdoor physical activities, but lacrosse carries its own set of barriers. Working to break down these barriers has been a point of emphasis for me since taking over as director. We do our best to outfit kids with all required equipment and gear, taking away some of the initial costs. The Jets community has rallied in this effort, donating and purchasing equipment to get kids started. Scholarships are also awarded to families who need it the most. The relative unknown nature of the sport can also be a barrier. With many transplant families in the Denver Metro area, some people have never even heard of the game. Support from the University of Denver Men’s program, particularly head coach Matt Brown, has helped young players explore the possibilities of what their future might hold. We have been highlighted as the team of the game at DU two years in a row, allowing our players to be on the field for practices and game warm ups. Many current Pioneers, some former Jets players themselves, have taken time out of their schedules to run some drills and games for the youngest Jets players. Parents and kids alike have called it an inspirational and unforgettable experience. This, partnered with free clinics hosted by Jets, has introduced the great game of lacrosse to people who would not have otherwise known about it. Once a kid gets a stick in their hands, they seem to never put it down.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Jets Lacrosse is a community program. Bringing people together in their neighborhood is something that is particularly special. We feel this is one of the most important aspects of what we do. We have a great community of people all working in tandem to help kids learn about lacrosse, but more importantly, learn about how to overcome challenges and work together towards a common goal. There are parent and community volunteers, doing everything from coaching on the field, bringing post games snacks, shuttling players to away games, gathering equipment to be donated, to spreading the word about the program. We have high school volunteers who are Jets alumni who simply want to give back to the community and program they love. Jets also employs expert coaches who have played at the division 1 level, spreading their knowledge and love for the game to the next generation.
Skills mastery is also an important piece of the Jets Lacrosse puzzle. The sport is extremely technical and relies on skill and intuitive play. This is demonstrated by the number of current and prospective college division 1 players who were formerly Jets players. Recently, four Jets alumni, and current high school players who are committed to play D1 in college, came together to hold a discussion panel on the recruiting process. They shared advice for young players, memories of their time through elementary/middle school with the Jets, and words of wisdom for the upcoming crop of youth players. This exemplifies the Jets way and how Lacrosse is more than just a game. There is a reason the Native American tribes call it “The Medicine Game”.
I hope readers take an interest not only in The Jets Lacrosse Club, but in the incredible sport of lacrosse overall.

What are your plans for the future?
The future is bright for the Jets Lacrosse club! We have an amazing group of young players just starting their lacrosse journey. Luckily for us, there is also an incredible batch of knowledgeable parents volunteering their time as coaches. The passion for the program has only grown in my 3 years at the helm. Increased participation in events like our gear swap and donation drives proves that we have the community’s continued support.
There are also some changes in my personal life impacting the Jets. My wife and I are expecting our first child in early May! This means that I’m taking my role with Jets Lacrosse from a side hustle, to a full time job. My 10+ years of experience in elementary education and running afterschool sports programs has paved the way for me to take this big step. It also allows me to be with my son at a pivotal time in his development. In addition, this opportunity gives me the ability to partner with local elementary and middle schools to continue spreading my love for lacrosse to new kids who might not have otherwise had the chance. Partnerships will include demos at school during P.E. class, afterschool clinics, and learn-to-play programs. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for the Jets Lacrosse Club.

Pricing:

• 50% discounts to new players
• Free loaner equipment and gear (while supplies last)
• Consistent pricing year over year
• Individual and Small group lessons $30-$55/hour
• $375 for the 2025 spring season

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.jetslacrosse.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jetslacrosse/