The US Lacrosse Convention – LaxCon

LaxCon was the place to be. Everything and everyone lacrosse under one roof. From big name players to small start-up companies, LaxCon had something for everyone. The amazing days at the convention were topped off with some fun and camaraderie and Baltimore did not disappoint when it came to food and entertainment.

 

Day One – Setting Up

Thursday is set up day. It’s always fascinating to watch the convention center transform from a cavernous space to a neighborhood like gathering spot. Old friends reconnect. New connections are made. The lacrosse community never fails to impress with vendors helping each other carry things, build things and even fill a dunk tank. Friends from around the world helped Zach and me set up our tent city and assemble our grid wall. Energized by our fellow lacrosse comrades, Zach and I hit Reggie’s for some delicious Baltimore style food and local beverages and eventually ended the evening at the True Lacrosse party which was a truly awesome party of past, present and future players in the lacrosse community.

 

Day Two – Networking

Friday morning we fine-tuned the set-up and the flood gates opened. It is awesome to talk with players and coaches who are part of the “Lacrosse Machine”. I networked till the sun went down. Mrs. RipWood made an appearance so we hit the town for dinner. We connected with friends, Pete and Lisa, who interestingly we originally met three years ago in the lobby of our hotel our first year attending LaxCon and remained friends ever since. We ended the night at the Lacrosse Ball Store Party which you guessed it…. was a ball! Enjoyed knocking around with the Stylin Strings guys who are always the highlight of every lacrosse event for me and have been my pals since the inception of Ripwood.

Day Three – All about the Fans and the Galaxy Wood Lacrosse Shaft

Saturday was all about the fans. We were blessed to be constantly busy with old and new friends stopping by to say hello. The hand painted shafts by Ryan the Foe were an enormous crowd pleaser and were in short supply since only 10 were ever made. Ryan is an artist extraordinaire. Our newest wood lacrosse shaft, the Galaxy was a huge hit and we sold out. But never fear there are more on the website. And lastly, the RipWood shades by Tomahawk were a red hot seller. We loved seeing those guys at the convention again this year.

 

The End

All-in-all our third year as exhibitors at the the US Lacrosse Convention was an enormous success. We are thankful for lacrosse community and anxiously await our opportunity to do it again next year. ~ Andy Over and Out!