Enjoy the Ride

September 9, 2023 by MJ

Savor the Journey

One day, you’ll slide into your car for the final time, greeted by the lingering scent of well-used athletic gear and the crumbs of dirt scattered across your once-pristine floor mats. As you ascend the bleachers for the last occasion, you’ll hear your child’s name over the loudspeaker and catch their fleeting glance and wave. The final whistle will blow, coaches will give their concluding remarks, and the last stadium hotdog will be consumed. And just like that, it ends—you’ll drive away, never to return.

Today might be the first time you lace up their cleats and watch them take to the field. Whether they excel or stumble, remember that they are still the cherished extension of yourself that you’ll love unconditionally.

When the journey concludes, what will matter most are the happy memories they’ve created, not their statistics, college offers, or coaches’ philosophies. Resist the temptation to keep pace with the so-called “sports parents.” Treasure every second instead.

In their early years, you may feel pressured to enroll them in numerous activities, spurred by every flash of potential. But tread cautiously. The moment they start, expectations and comparisons set in, often becoming overwhelming. Honor their wishes when they seek a hiatus or yearn for simple friendships outside of sports.

Rather than scrutinize coaches or obsess over wins and losses, focus on your child. Are they happy? Are they growing, both as athletes and individuals? Those are the questions that will matter in the end.

Your children have a wide array of talents and interests beyond sports. Do not allow their self-worth to be defined solely by their athletic achievements. Ensure your role remains that of a parent first, not merely a coach.

Embrace the present moment—the cheers, the blunders, the triumphs, and even the mundane aspects. For one day, all these will become memories you yearn to relive.

So hold on tight. Relish the joy emanating from the simple act of watching them play. These moments are fleeting, and once gone, they never return.

Reflecting on 14 Years of 212 Lacrosse

September 9, 2023 by MJ

In 14 years, from 2009 to 2023, 212 Lacrosse has journeyed from humble beginnings to significant milestones. This would not have been possible without the collective efforts of our invaluable team: our committed staff, supportive parents, and relentless players. We stand today as a testament to their unwavering dedication and unity. We extend our deepest gratitude to this team for their enduring contributions that have driven us forward.

With gratitude,

Mike Acee

A Decade and More: 2009-2023 (Club and State Results)

The legacy of 212 Lacrosse resonates not only in victories but in the transformative impact we’ve ignited. As we reflect on this journey, the following milestones illuminate our path:

Community Care: Beyond the fields, our hearts extend to families in need, offering a helping hand in times of hardship. Our commitment is exemplified through donations and the provision of free training to families with financial constraints.

Empowering Our Locale: 212 Lacrosse isn’t confined to the game; it’s a force for positive change in our community. Our dedication has yielded job opportunities, fostering growth and mutual support within our local ecosystem.

Guiding Light: Mentorship has been our cornerstone. Beyond refining players’ skills, we’ve nurtured well-rounded individuals, imparting life lessons that extend beyond the realm of lacrosse.

A Trail of Triumphs: From 593 games emerged 473 victories, underscoring the heart and determination that define 212 Lacrosse. Within this journey, we’ve claimed 40 championships, each one a testament to our unrelenting pursuit of excellence.

Shaping Futures: Nurturing talent from early ages, we’ve instilled values of discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship in both boys and girls, steering 85 players towards college lacrosse commitments and a future bright with possibilities.

Strength in Numbers: 7,000 hours of local training. Over 2,800 players. These figures encapsulate the united spirit of 212 Lacrosse, where bonds are forged through sweat, determination, and shared goals.

The Highlight Reel: Boys’ & Girls’ Team Feats:

Our journey has been adorned with moments that define us – electrifying victories, heart-stopping matches, and unforgettable camaraderie. These highlights stand as a testament to the essence of 212 Lacrosse.

Team Highlights

Testimonials:

The echoes of our impact are captured in our testimonials. Parents’ words encapsulate the transformative power of 212 Lacrosse’s journey.

Club Tournaments:

A tally of 348 wins, 85 losses, and 37 tournament championships bear witness to our dedication and skill. This journey through 11 seasons and 50 tournaments is a reflection of 212 Lacrosse’s indomitable spirit.

State Champions: Utah’s Pride

A record of 126-36 over 7 seasons, coupled with three state championships for both boys and girls, narrates our journey in the Utah State Championships.

Orlando Family Testimonial

September 3, 2023 by MJ

Testimonial to Mike Acee

Professionalism, honesty and integrity are words that best describe coach Mike Acee. His passion for the game of lacrosse and his commitment to young athletes is evident and consistent. His encouraging yet firm coaching style sets him apart as an exemplary lacrosse “educator”. Coach Mike truly “leads by example” with humility and passion for the game. Mike’s influence on young athletes both on and off the field is stellar.

Coach Acee made our son Gianni’s college lacrosse recruiting process a true pleasure. He demonstrated swift follow-up while acting as a true liaison between Gianni and the US Air Force Academy coaches. Mike handled every detail with care and remained mindful of all appropriate recruiting etiquette and protocol.

Our family cannot truly express our unending gratitude to coach Mike for all he has done and we are looking forward to attending future events with the 212 family. The core group of 212 families has been warm and welcoming. These events are filled with laughter and excitement. The “true” spirit of the game of lacrosse is apparent. We are so pleased that our sons are a part of this organization. They are encouraged to play the sport they love and they are also building friendships and memories that will last for a lifetime.

Gianni Orlando – D1 Commit

-Tonya and Bobby Orlando

Bauer Family Testimonial: Our 212 Journey

September 2, 2023 by MJ

Dylan Bauer – (John’s Hopkins University Commit)

For over a decade, my family has been an integral part of Mike’s 212 lacrosse program since its inception in Park City. This program was established to address a void in the club experience here in Utah. Despite previous fleeting attempts by other organizations, 212 has remained a steadfast presence, catering to the youth players of Utah. The scarcity of coaches possessing Mike’s credentials and connections in this region makes his continued commitment to the program all the more fortunate.

Having personally coached at the youth level for a decade and played a substantial role in overseeing the boys’ program for nearly as long, I often find myself fielding inquiries about lacrosse clubs. Particularly, parents seek guidance on navigating the sport amidst the plethora of expensive options available today. While I don’t possess all-encompassing answers, I believe a crucial starting point lies in distinguishing between mere game playing and comprehensive training. The summer training sessions hosted in Park City have undeniably facilitated my son’s development of skills and field awareness that extend beyond the scope of spring ball. A testament to the efficacy of this training emerged in last night’s High School State Semi-Final game, which showcased approximately 10 players who had dedicated significant time to summer training under Mike’s guidance. These individuals assumed starting positions and often comprised the core of their respective teams. When juxtaposed with the costs associated with participating in a three-day tournament with any other club, the value of Mike’s training becomes evident.

Moreover, Mike has played an invaluable role in my son’s pursuit of a college lacrosse career. He has consistently advocated for Dylan and has adeptly mediated with interested schools. His familiarity with numerous prominent Division I coaches, despite our location in Utah, speaks volumes about his network.

In an era where many national club coaches strive to secure college placements for a multitude of players, it is reassuring to have a local coach who dedicates his attention to a select few – a mere half dozen kids at a time.

Beyond his on-field focus, Mike’s commitment to broader issues has garnered my admiration for years. His efforts to shed light on health challenges faced by former players serve as a poignant reminder that lacrosse transcends the confines of a mere game.

The foundation established within the 212 program continues to yield benefits for my son as he progresses in his lacrosse journey.

Sincerely,
Greg Bauer

Player Testimonial: Air Force Commit A. Meyer

September 1, 2023 by MJ

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I’ve had the distinct privilege of working under Mike Acee in the 212 Lacrosse program, an experience that has profoundly influenced both my skill set and perspective on life. Mike is not only an extraordinary mentor, but he’s also become a treasured friend, offering invaluable wisdom on and off the lacrosse field.

Mike founded 212 Lacrosse out of a pure love for the sport, aiming to educate young players like myself on the nuances of the game while emphasizing the joy it can bring. His contagious enthusiasm has inevitably transferred to us players, encouraging us to constantly strive for excellence. Mike also instilled in me the importance of work ethic, encapsulated in his mantra to “leave your ego at the door.” In both life and lacrosse, nothing worth having comes easily; it requires dedication, grit, and a hundred percent commitment to self-improvement.

My experience with Mike transformed me from a struggling freshman into a considerably more skilled player. Unlike any other coach I’ve encountered, Mike devoted his attention to my weaknesses, orchestrating practices at 212 Lacrosse that were tailored to individual improvement. While other programs often opt for a one-size-fits-all approach, featuring large drills that lack personalized coaching, Mike’s program is committed to detail and individual growth.

What sets 212 Lacrosse apart even further is its approach to tournaments. We play not merely to win, but to truly engage with the sport, unburdened by the stress of making mistakes. While winning is gratifying, Mike places the highest value on the personal enjoyment and development of each player. This unique philosophy has made 212 Lacrosse an extraordinary program to be a part of.

Sincerely,
Alec Meyer

212 Hall of Fame Coach Fred Acee

August 18, 2023 by MJ

Fred Acee

Mike’s father, the renowned coach Fred Acee, has joined forces with 212 Lacrosse as a consultant and head of curriculum. Having retired in 2009, Acee boasts over four decades of coaching expertise. With a career record of 350-223-1, he led Air Force as head coach from 1998 to 2008 before concluding his tenure with administrative duties in his final year. Notable achievements during his time with the Falcons include an upset victory against ninth-ranked conference rival Notre Dame in 2006 and a historic win against reigning national champion Virginia at the outset of the 2004 season. This victory marked the Falcons’ inaugural triumph over a top-ranked team.

Prior to his time at the Academy, Acee, a 1963 graduate of Cortland State, spent 30 years as the lacrosse coach at SUNY-Farmingdale. Under his guidance, the Rams secured three NJCAA championships and reached 25 Final Fours. Acee received the NJCAA Coach of the Year accolade on four occasions (1977, 1981, 1987, and 1997). Over his extensive career, he achieved numerous honors, including inductions into the IMLCA Hall of Fame, the Long Island Metropolitan Hall of Fame, the Junior College Lacrosse Hall of Fame, and the SUNY Cortland C Club Hall of Fame. He played a role as the defensive coach for the U.S. lacrosse team that clinched the world championship in 1994 and served as the head coach for the South team at the North/South All-Star Game in 2002. Acee was recognized as the Howdy Myers Man of the Year by the USILA in 2001, and in 2007, he received both the USILA’s Frenchy Julien Service Award and the IMLCA Creators Award.

Fred takes immense pride in his three children: Andreana, Paulette, and Mike. Furthermore, he is a doting grandfather to five beautiful grandchildren: Sara, Michael, Paige, Kayla, and Ella.