Every athlete’s journey begins because someone else opened the door, drove them to practice, organized the team, sold raffle tickets, cheered in the stands, sat through endless meetings, or simply said, “Don’t worry, I’ll take care of it.”
Throughout the 1980s, Larry French was a driving force in Huntsville Minor Lacrosse. He served in numerous executive roles, including President, helping guide and strengthen the organization during an important period of growth. But anyone who knew Larry knows his contribution went far beyond a title.
Larry wasn’t the kind of person who asked, “Whose job is that?”
He was the kind of person who said, “I’ll do it.”
If there was a need on the bench, Larry stepped in. If a fundraiser needed volunteers, Larry was there. If a parent couldn’t get a player to practice or a game, Larry made sure they got there. Generations of young athletes benefited from his willingness to give his time, his energy, and his heart to the game.
One of those players was his own son.
Like so many parents involved in minor sports, Larry first wanted to create opportunities for his child. But the remarkable thing about Larry was that he treated every player like they mattered just as much. The same care, encouragement, and support he gave his own son was extended to countless other young players wearing a Huntsville jersey. His investment wasn’t just in one athlete. It was in an entire community of athletes.
As the years went on, Larry continued his commitment to the sport by joining the Huntsville Jr. B Hawks organization. In 1991, he worked alongside Coach Jim Meredith during a historic season that culminated in a Founders Cup championship. While players may have scored the goals and the coaches may have drawn up the plays, successful teams are built on a foundation created by dedicated people behind the scenes, and Larry was an important part of that foundation.
What makes Larry truly deserving of this honour is that his legacy can’t be measured by statistics or championships alone. His impact lives in the friendships formed, the opportunities created, and the countless young people who learned teamwork, discipline, and community through lacrosse in Huntsville
Larry’s years of service, generosity, and unwavering commitment to Huntsville lacrosse have left a lasting mark on our community. He helped build programs, support athletes, and strengthen a culture of sport that continues to benefit families today.