“We’re parent funded and we’re club,” Ciambro said. “And I’m probably the youngest head coach in the United States.”
The team has drawn 19 committed members so far, and looks to continue to grow as word spreads. Though only the club team has formed so far, Ciambro says that interest has intensified in the past few months.
“There’s been significant interest,” Ciambro said. “We’re looking at about 19 players, which is really good for the first year of varsity. Most people start with a feeder program, like a fifth-grade team or whatnot. I’ve had other kids, like eighth graders and girls come up to me to see if we’re doing a team for them.”
The going price for a spot on the team is between $350 and $450, which Ciambro says is much more inexpensive than when he originally started. He shopped around to find a field to practice on and said fundraising with community businesses was key.
Lacrosse, more than most sports, is an immersive lifestyle to many. It’s not easy to establish a culture in new territory, but Ciambro believes that growth starts with his initial 19.
“I expect all involved this year to be leaders, not only on the field, but off as well,” Ciambro said. “We’re going to get involved in most charitable events around the community. We’re going to do a bunch of fundraising events with Chipotle, Bob Evans, we’re doing one with Nike now, and Dakota’s steakhouse … I expect a lot out of (the players) to prove to the younger kids that it’s a great program, and that this is something you want to get involved with. I expect to have about six new teams by the beginning of next year.”
Along with Ciambro, teammate Alex Pang and journeyman coach Mason Nevels, are set to assist. Pang was a 2009 Adidas All-Region high school player from Dublin, Ohio, and Nevels has worked various camps and clinics in the greater Cincinnati area, while coaching the Cincinnati Outlaws travel and indoor teams. Ciambro himself has always wanted to coach, and this coming spring he’ll get his wish.
“This is a dream come true,” Ciambro explained. “Since I was a kid I always wanted to play professional lacrosse. I didn’t find that path, but I’m finding success at Miami University in my studies and a couple little other things. This is a dream, though, because I get to stay with the game and give back to the community.”
Those interested in the Tallawanda club lacrosse team can contact Ciambro at coleciambro@gmail.com.
About the Author