When I think of lacrosse, what comes to mind is Robin Williams telling his charges in the "Dead Poets Society" to "keep your head about you, mates." One of my favorite movie memories is when he gathers his charges in the "hall of fame" showcasing previous students of Vermont's exclusive Welton Academy and asks them to "seize the day."

Students in this exclusive school had high expectations placed upon them in the classroom and in extracurricular activities, one being participation on a winning lacrosse team.

To me, lacrosse has a connotation of an upscale sport, such as polo or fox hunting, probably because I've only seen it in the movies. The fans of these sports seem to be "well-bred" and dress accordingly, unlike the swarms of people, myself included, who flock to football or baseball games in their comfy jeans and T-shirts.

Well, I've learned some things about lacrosse. Apparently, it is considered to be one of America's first sports, begun by American Indians, christened by the French, and adapted by the Canadians. I won't attempt to explain the game here, but it seems similar to hockey because there are sticks involved, protection is required and the names of the positions of the players are similar.

Apparently Glen (Pop) Warner, a famous football coach (you knew that, right?), called lacrosse "a developer of health and strength. It is a game that spectators rave over once they understand it." He asserted that playing lacrosse helped his players prepare for fall season.

Well, football season is almost upon us, and lacrosse clinics are being held right here in Temecula. Actually, they started in February 2003, and they take place at Margarita Middle School every Sunday from 5 to 7 p.m. Anyone from middle school age to adult can participate, and there is no fee.

According to coach Jim Fred, if you are interested, all you have to do is show up - no registration is required. He recommends you bring a helmet for protection and cleats because the grass can be slippery, but those are optional. Loaner equipment is available at the weekly clinics, so you needn't be concerned about that either. Jim does suggest that you bring a friend because it's always more interesting to start a new endeavor with a buddy.

Jim described lacrosse as having elements of both hockey and football. He added that it is a fast, physical and technical sport. Elsewhere, I have heard that it requires both speed and strength.

So, sports fans, "seize the day" and learn a new sport. For information regarding the Temecula Valley Lacrosse Association, which dubs lacrosse as "the fastest-growing sport in Temecula," contact Earle Kirkley at 926-0291 or Jim Fred at 676-8824, or e-mail info@temecross.com.

Jan Roberts writes about ideas, people and events of interest in Southwest County. She can be reached at mizjan@adelphia.net.