The boys and girls lacrosse teams put their sticks down Tuesday to help make care packages for 200 soldiers in the 187th Infantry Regiment and the 101st Airborne Division of the U.S. army stationed in Afghanistan.

Boys captain Alex Hosker began the program “Lax for Others” last year to aid troops in Afghanistan, which set the tone for the event earlier this week. After receiving positive feedback from the troops, the boys team decided to hold the program again this year with the girls team.

The teams put together packages of socks, boxed foods, magazines, cards and other necessities. Each package also included a picture of both teams and a note from an individual player thanking the troops for their service.

“It means a lot,” Hosker said. “The troops have already done us a lot of favors, so it’s definitely something they deserve. Any way we can give back is what we want to do.”

The program helps soldiers recognize that people are grateful for their service, and the troops have even expressed appreciation for the care packages, boys coach Tommy Rothert said.

“The troops last year said they really liked our letters, and [that they] got a lot out of them,” Rothert said. “Once we send off all these packages, the troops will send back a picture of all the service men and women. It’s pretty cool to get that feedback from them, and see them enjoying our contributions.”

This event not only supports the troops, but also serves as a way for the teams to bond.

“It’s nice that we’re both doing this together. It builds the program, and it’s for a really good cause,” girls captain Maddie Parker said. “This event brings us closer and we can all work together to do something great.”

Because working together has proven to be a success, the lacrosse teams hope to continue their efforts to give back to the troops in the following years, junior Alex Hilsenrath said.

“This year’s event was larger than last year’s, so we’re definitely expanding on it,” Hilsenrath said. “Hopefully, next year we can make it a greater event and even spread it to other sports.”