For Boys 8U and Older Lacrosse Programs, players need full lacrosse gear for all programming. Please see below for more details. USA Lacrosse also has an overview here.
Our Boys Kindergarten Program does not require full gear. We use soft lacrosse balls and give out introductory, smaller lacrosse sticks as part of the program registration.
Goalies require additional gear (see below). Goalies can borrow the goalie specific gear from us.
To protect against Commotio Cordis*, USA Lacrosse has implemented new rules that boys chest and shoulder pads must meet NOCSAE certification. These pads have been approved by NOCSAE. Boys goalies must use the certified chest pads as of 1/1/2021. Other boys players must use the certified shoulder pads as of 1/1/2022.
*Commotio Cordis (Latin, "agitation of the heart") is an often lethal disruption of heart rhythm that occurs as a result of a blow to the area directly over the heart (the precordial region) at a critical time during the cycle of a heart beat, producing what is termed an R-on-T phenomenon that leads to the condition.
If you’re buying a new lacrosse stick, here are a few things to consider.
If your player is 8U or 10U, look for a stick labeled as “junior.” These are sized really well for our youngest players, which will help as they learn lacrosse core skills of catching, passing and cradling.
Generally, you will find a full stick package that has the head, mesh, stringing and stick all done and assembled together.
Once your player is at 12U, he may need to upgrade to a “non-junior” stick or may be interested in a long stick to play defense or long-stick-middie (LSM) position. More than likely, you will be buying a head, mesh, stringing and stick separately.
The mesh and stringing are what matter the most.
Find an expert stringer to assist (e.g., local lacrosse retailers offer). Dan Henrich, our 14U program coach, is willing to string or adjust stringing for our players at no charge. He can be reached at cell 651-231-7145 – email danhenrich18@gmail.com.
Mesh should be weather resistant. Moisture in the air changes pockets. Classic mesh, especially soft mesh, will change the hold and release of a stick completely.
If you have questions about sticks, stringing, mesh, and heads, please feel free to ask Dan Henrich or one of your player’s coaches.