This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Health & Fitness

The Lake Shore Lynx are Part of the Libertyville Community

Do you know about Libertyville's not-for-profit, semi-pro football team, the Lake Shore Lynx? They've spent the last four years working to make Libertyville a better place to live.

Have you heard about Libertyville's own Lake Shore Lynx semi-pro football team?

The answer is probably no, but the Lynx have been working hard for four years to make Libertyville a better community.

This team has been extremely successful on the field, winning the Gridiron Football League championship for the past three seasons.  But this collection of local athletes has set themselves apart with their off the field work.

Find out what's happening in Libertyvillewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

"We built the Lynx with the idea that Libertyville loves football and the game can continue to help make this a better community," says Mike Johnson, co-founder of the Lynx. "One of the keys is that we are designed as a not-for-profit organization, with the intention to do more than play football."

In that charitable capacity, over the past two years, the Lynx volunteered their time to help with different projects at the Brainerd Building.  However this year, the Lynx changed their focus. 

Find out what's happening in Libertyvillewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

"When we saw the horrible things that were done to the Libertyville Boys Club, we knew that our efforts and support were needed," says Johnson.  "Many of our players, coaches and supporters were players and volunteers in that program.  We've seen the good things it does for the youth of our community so the decision was easy."

This year the Lynx are helping the LBC with field work, equipment hand out and many of the Lynx will be on the sidelines as coaches. 

Johnson also says that the Lynx want to be role models.  Working with the LBC, the Lynx are inviting the athletes and families to each of their games.  The intention is to show these youngsters that there is a right way to play football and be part of the community.

The Lynx home opener at Butler Lake Park in Libertyville featured more than 200 people in attendance.

Starting half back Dante Daniels says, "These fans are aweseome.  Every smiling kid and cheering parent reminds us that we may love the game, but our community is starting to love the Lynx...what an amazing feeling!"

The Lynx next home game is scheduled for Friday June 10th at 8:00 PM at Butler Lake Park versus the South Milwaukee Rage.  This begins a three week home stand for the Lynx.   Attendance is free for every Lynx home game and families are encouraged to attend.

To learn more about the Lynx:  

Website: http://www.lakeshorelynx.com/

Facebook: Lake Shore Lynx Semi-pro Football

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?