FAQ - Youth

When does the youth season begin and how long does it last?

A lot depends upon the weather, but we generally begin around the first of April.  Our season finale is usually around the time of the Canandaigua Tournament which is held in mid June. 

What about practices and games?

Practices are typically held on Mondays and Wednesdays and games are played on Saturdays.  You may also find your coach offers an optional third night of practice.  Again, so much of our schedule depends upon the weather that we are unable to promise you will always have a M-W-S schedule.  There may be instances when the weather creates havoc with the schedule and we are forced to practice or play on other nights.  Directions and maps to all away games will be provided to you on our web page (www.calacrosse.org). Most games will be played on Saturday mornings.

Where is practice? What time is practice?

Practices are usually scheduled for 6-7:30pm on the Academy fields.  You should plan on arriving ready to play.  Because the Academy fields are wide open, the wind is often blowing and it can be cold.  Plan accordingly and bring an extra layer of warmth. 

 What equipment do I need?

 A water bottle, stick and mouth guard.  If you have the rest of the required equipment (shoulder pads, helmet and gloves) bring that as well.  If you don’t have this equipment, no sweat!  Our equipment coordinator will get you set-up with everything you need!  A parent or guardian will need to sign for your borrowed equipment.  There is no charge for the use of this equipment unless you happen to lose it or forget to return it.  At that time, you will receive a bill for the replacement cost of the missing item(s).

 Coaches will distribute game jerseys just before the first game. 

 What is the 1/2 & 3/4 grade league like?

The  1/2 & 3/4  grade league is for boys in the 1st, 2^nd,  3rd or 4th grade.  Games are held on a smaller than regulation field with fewer than regulation players in the game.  Emphasis is on skills development and fun.  There is approximately 3 weeks of practice sessions then games begin on a weekly basis.  Practices continue throughout the season.  There are 6-8 scheduled games.  Players will play all positions & will learn a lot by the end of the season.  Contact is minimal but incidental.  Body checking is not allowed.  Stick checking is limited to poke checks.   Protective gear is provided.  THERE IS NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY.

What is the 5/6 grade league like?

The 5/6 grade league is for boys in the 5th or 6th grade.  Games are held on a regulation field with a regulation number of players in the game.  Emphasis is on skills development and fun.  There is approximately 3 weeks of practice sessions, and then games begin on a weekly basis.  Practices continue throughout the season.  There are 6-8 scheduled games.  Players will play different positions, but will begin to focus on & learn the finer points of a specific position in preparation for the Modified level.  Body checking is not allowed.   Protective gear is provided.   THERE IS NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY.

What happens if I can’t make it to practice?

It’s understandable that you may miss a practice or two due to school commitments or family emergencies. However, if you are consistently unable to make practices, you are missing out on valuable training.  Our coaches plan “progressive” lessons and it’s important that you keep up with your teammates by attending the practices. Our season is very short and every practice matters.  We hope that you have given careful consideration to the practice and game schedule and will make a decision that is fair to both you and your team. 

 How will I know which team I am on?

During the first couple of weeks, players will be broken down by grades.  1^st and 2^nd will practice together, 3^rd and 4^th will practice together and 5^th and 6^th will practice together.  Players will be assigned to teams following the 2^nd week of practice.  The number of teams we have will be based upon the number of registered players.  Our goal is to create the maximum number of teams possible.  This allows you more playing time.  It also means we need to be able to count on you to show-up to practices and games!

What if I have a question or a concern?

You should contact your coach for answers to your questions or concerns but we ask that you are sensitive to the coach’s schedule.  Because many of our coaches will be arriving to practice just in time to set-up, they may not have the time for a discussion prior to practice.  During the practice, the coach will be focused on the players and should not be interrupted unless you have an emergency.  The same holds true on game days.  The best time to speak to your coach may be immediately following practice. 

If you have a question requiring more than a quick response, ask your coach for the best time to contact him or her.  At no time is it appropriate to discuss concerns relative to another player, coach, official or parent in front of anyone else!  We are striving to create a positive environment and expect your help.

If you are unable to reach your coach, please contact your coordinator (we have one for each grade level- 5/6, 3 /4, 1/2). If after speaking to your coach and/or coordinator your question still remains unanswered, you should contact the Advisory Board President. 

Do I have to sell anything?

As with every other program, we do offer fundraising opportunities.  For the most part you will find the players are not asked to sell candy, magazines or anything else!  Our major fundraiser is the Canandaigua Invitational Lacrosse Tournament.  All of our players participate in the tournament. We ask that each family consider donating about 3-4 hours helping out.  There are many varied opportunities; from setting-up tents and lining fields to securing donations for our food and beverage tents.  We also need help with working the vending areas and registering teams.  If you have artistic abilities, you may want to help with designing the tournament t-shirt.  If you are a business owner or work for a company that makes charitable donations, we welcome sponsorship of our t-shirt and /or playing fields.

 The CA Invitational is a lot of FUN for everyone and it is an easy way to show your support for our program!

Feedback? Contact us at: webmaster@CAlacrosse.org