The Buffalo Bandits will host a Western New York Underclassmen All-Star Game for both boys and girls lacrosse players on Thursday, June 13 at West Seneca East High School. The game will feature all-stars from Section 6 and Monsignor Martin boys and girls varsity lacrosse teams in eighth through eleventh grade.

The WNY Exceptional Seniors Game for high school seniors will still continue to run as it has in the past.

The girls will face off at 6 p.m. while the boys will take the field at 7:30 p.m. Admission to both games will be free and open to the public. Concessions will be provided by West Seneca East High School.

Teams and coaches were selected by a committee of section chairs for both boys and girls Section 6 classes. In addition, the event will feature guest coaching appearances by select Bandits players and photo opportunities with the NLL Cup.

“Working with our local high school teams has been something we’ve been looking at for many years,” Bandits coordinator of lacrosse operations Dan Ristine said. “The Underclassmen All-Star Game is just another step we’re taking to make sure the talent in Buffalo gets recognized for the hard work they put into playing this amazing game.”

The Bandits implement several initiatives throughout the year to recognize the local youth lacrosse scene. Bandits players wear jerseys from local high school teams during pre-game warmups as a nod to the start of their seasons.

Each year, the John Faller Memorial Award is presented to a local coach or administrator whose contributions to amateur lacrosse in Western New York positively impact those who play for them. In addition, the Bandits recognize the Section Champions from each season on the field during halftime of a game.

Ed Greenway, the Chair of Section 6 Boys Lacrosse, was thrilled about the opportunity to work with the Bandits on the newly created All-Star Game.

“It’s exciting that Section 6 boys and girls lacrosse will recognize talented underclassmen in the inaugural Underclassmen All-Star Game,” Greenway said. “In working with the Bandits, we get to recognize a group of players that have significantly contributed to lacrosse this past season. We are proud that the Bandits continue to give back to our WNY lacrosse community.”

Section 6 Girls Lacrosse Assistant Chairman Jeffrey Bauda also shared his excitement to have another opportunity to showcase the talent of girls lacrosse in Buffalo.

“This game will be an exciting showcase of skills in a fun and competitive environment,” Bauda said. “It’s a great opportunity for young players to display their talent and passion for the sport. Collaborating with the Bandits brings together expertise and the energy of a professional lacrosse team to support and elevate the next generation of players.”

Crossbar Athletics, a local clothing printing company based in East Aurora, N.Y., has come on as a sponsor of the 2024 Underclassmen All-Star Game and will be providing uniforms for each player selected to the game.

Crossbar Athletics is the official clothing and uniform supplier of a dozen local high school programs.

“We couldn’t be more excited to team up with the Buffalo Bandits and work with these amazing youth athletes. It’s all about celebrating their talent and hard work of the boys and girls in the community,” said Nate Murray, co-founder of Crossbar Athletics. “We can’t wait to see them hit the field in our uniforms. Let’s grow the game together!”

See below for final rosters.