By Ed Wehde
WSL Special Correspondent

SANTA ANA, Calif. – Both fans and participants called the inaugural LMX Pro Tour event – a first-of-its-kind lacrosse and music festival held at Santa Ana Municipal Stadium on Saturday – a roaring success.

A.J. Jones a 13-year-old club lacrosse player flew in from Arizona with his mother just for the event.

“I wanted to do the clinic and see the games,” Jones said. “I thought it was pretty cool. The games were really good.”

Jones' mom Stefanie concurred.

“I thought it was great,” she said. “We got here for the casting call at nine o'clock this morning, so we were here for the duration. It was awesome.”

Chris Malone, who coached one of the professional all-star showcase teams, said he thinks the concept of combining the sport with music is a good one.

“It's a great event,” said Malone, who also coaches the Arizona State University men’s team. “I wanted to be a part of it, because I know how special this is. Combining music with lacrosse and trying to draw fans in is a great idea.

“I think it went really well. The Chapman-UCSB game was a good game and this (all-star) game was a great game. Now, we have the music coming out. You put it all together and it's a great event and you build from here. I feel great just being here.”

Mike Watson, who coached Malone's pro all-star opponent, echoed his thoughts.

“I think it's a great idea and it's a great start,” Watson said. “The college game was great. I was impressed with the level of play there. And you can see by all the kids here that they're into it.

“I think we're onto something real good here. I hope they continue to make it better and perfect it. I'm pretty excited about it.”

Malone summed up his thoughts on the day by recommending the public to check out the show in the future. LXM is tentatively scheduled to hit Miami, Austin, Columbus and Portland over the next several months.

“I encourage everyone: the next LXM event – where ever it is, whatever city – go,” Malone said. “Don't miss out.”