In 2017 organizers from Canandaigua made a bold proposal to join the national Shootout for Soldiers movement and beating out many larger sites, became the smallest location selected to host an event. Led by a team that included Carrie Vierhile, Deven York and John Isaac, the event raised over $50,000 in that first year. In their three-year history the group has raised over $180,000 and their ambitious goal this year in $100,000.

Shootout for Soldiers is a twenty-four-hour lacrosse event that benefits American veterans. "The event is all about supporting those who serve our country." The idea behind the event is to have continuous lacrosse games over a twenty-four-hour period and there are games for all ages, genders and abilities. As usual, the opening game, set for July 24th at noon, will be played by veterans. The 2:00 AM game traditionally is played by parents in costumes!

The event is designed to be fun for all ages. For the kids, there are games and there is food for everyone. The lacrosse games will be played on Canandaigua Academy campus, on the stadium field and in the box.

So, sign up to play, sign up to volunteer, sponsor a player, make a donation, and in any event, drop by during the twenty-four hours and enjoy the festivities. Show, once again, that this part of the country knows how to make things happen.