What is the LAX Cats Lacrosse Association. How long has it been promoting youth lacrosse in Pickerington. What age groups and genders does the program serve. What are the key benefits of playing lacrosse for youth athletes.
The LAX Cats: Pioneering Youth Lacrosse in Pickerington
The LAX Cats Lacrosse Association has been at the forefront of youth lacrosse in Pickerington, Ohio for over 15 years. As a parent-led, non-profit organization established in 2001, LAX Cats is dedicated to providing opportunities for local youth to learn and enjoy America’s fastest-growing sport.
The program welcomes boys and girls from grades 1 through 6, catering to both returning players and those new to the sport. With a commitment to creating a fun and positive environment, LAX Cats aims to instill a love for lacrosse while teaching fundamental skills and sportsmanship.
Core Values and Mission
At the heart of LAX Cats’ mission is the goal to offer a character-building experience that goes beyond the field. The organization emphasizes:
- Inspiring participation
- Developing fundamental skills
- Instilling knowledge of the game
- Promoting sportsmanship, teamwork, and discipline
- Fostering responsibility and respect
The Multifaceted Appeal of Lacrosse for Youth Athletes
Why should parents consider signing up their children for lacrosse? The sport offers a unique combination of benefits that contribute to physical, mental, and social development.
Unparalleled Fun and Excitement
Lacrosse is often referred to as “the fastest sport on two feet.” The fast-paced nature of the game provides an adrenaline rush and excitement that keeps players engaged and enthusiastic.
Cross-Sport Skill Development
Is lacrosse beneficial for athletes who play other sports? Absolutely. Lacrosse combines elements from various popular sports:
- The hustle of soccer
- The explosiveness of football
- The skill of baseball or softball
- The creative teamwork of basketball
This unique blend of skills makes lacrosse an excellent sport for overall athletic development. In fact, many college and NFL coaches recognize the value of lacrosse in elevating the performance of football players.
The LAX Cats Approach: Fostering a Positive Lacrosse Experience
LAX Cats is committed to creating an environment where both children and parents can enjoy the sport. The organization strives to honor the Native American roots of lacrosse, often referred to as “The Medicine Game” for its ability to strengthen communities.
Key Aspects of the LAX Cats Program
- Safe and supportive learning environment
- Emphasis on fun and skill development
- Age-appropriate programs for grades 1-6
- Competitive opportunities against other central Ohio programs
- Volunteer-driven organization
Understanding Lacrosse: A Unique Blend of Sports
How does lacrosse compare to other popular sports? Boys lacrosse combines elements from several well-known games:
- The physicality of football
- The hustle of soccer
- The creative skill of basketball
- A rich history as America’s original sport
This unique combination creates a dynamic and engaging experience for players of all skill levels.
The LAX Cats Code of Conduct: Honoring the Game
LAX Cats places a strong emphasis on good sportsmanship and respect for all participants in the game. The organization’s Code of Conduct is built on the principles of honesty and integrity.
Key Elements of the Code of Conduct
All members of the LAX Cats community, including players, coaches, spectators, and parents, are expected to:
- Conduct themselves in a manner that “Honors the Game”
- Demonstrate respect for other players, coaches, officials, and spectators
- Uphold the values of honesty and integrity
By adhering to these principles, LAX Cats aims to create a positive and enriching experience for all involved in the program.
Lacrosse Terminology: Decoding the Language of the Game
For those new to lacrosse, understanding the terminology can be crucial to fully appreciate the sport. Here are some common terms used in lacrosse:
On-Field Terms
- Attack Goal Area: The area around the goal defined by specific lines. The offensive team has 10 seconds to move the ball into this area after crossing the midfield line.
- Body Check: Contact with an opponent from the front, between the shoulders and waist, when the opponent has the ball or is within five yards of a loose ball.
- Cage: Another name for the goal or goal area.
- Clearing: The act of moving the ball from the defensive half to the offensive half of the field.
- Crease: A circle around the goal with a nine-foot radius, into which only defensive players may enter.
Face-Off and Substitution Terms
- Box: An area between team benches for penalized players and substitutions.
- Clamp: A face-off maneuver where a player quickly pushes the back of the stick on top of the ball.
Defensive Terms
- Check-Up: A call from the goalie instructing defenders to find and call out their assigned opponents.
Getting Involved with LAX Cats: Join the Lacrosse Community
Are you interested in getting your child involved in lacrosse? LAX Cats offers a welcoming environment for players of all skill levels.
How to Register
Joining the LAX Cats program is easy. Simply visit their website and follow the registration process. The organization welcomes new players and returning athletes alike.
Benefits of Joining LAX Cats
- Learn and play America’s fastest-growing youth sport
- Develop multi-sport skills
- Experience a supportive and positive team environment
- Compete against other central Ohio programs
- Be part of a community-driven, non-profit organization
By joining LAX Cats, your child will have the opportunity to grow as an athlete and individual while enjoying the exciting sport of lacrosse.
The Impact of Lacrosse on Youth Development
How does playing lacrosse contribute to a child’s overall development? The sport offers numerous benefits that extend beyond the field:
Physical Development
- Improves coordination and agility
- Enhances cardiovascular fitness
- Develops strength and endurance
Mental and Emotional Growth
- Builds confidence and self-esteem
- Teaches strategic thinking and decision-making
- Promotes mental toughness and resilience
Social Skills
- Fosters teamwork and communication
- Encourages leadership skills
- Teaches respect for others and sportsmanship
Through participation in lacrosse, young athletes develop a well-rounded set of skills that can benefit them in various aspects of life.
The Role of Parents in Supporting Youth Lacrosse
Parents play a crucial role in their child’s lacrosse experience. How can parents best support their young athletes?
Encouraging Participation
Support your child’s interest in lacrosse by:
- Attending games and practices
- Helping them practice at home
- Showing enthusiasm for their efforts and progress
Understanding the Game
Take time to learn about lacrosse:
- Familiarize yourself with the rules and terminology
- Watch professional or college lacrosse games with your child
- Attend parent education sessions offered by LAX Cats
Promoting Positive Sportsmanship
Model good behavior by:
- Respecting officials, coaches, and opponents
- Emphasizing effort and improvement over winning
- Encouraging your child to be a supportive teammate
By actively supporting your child’s lacrosse journey, you can help enhance their experience and foster a lifelong love for the sport.
The Future of Lacrosse in Pickerington and Beyond
As lacrosse continues to grow in popularity across the United States, programs like LAX Cats play a vital role in shaping the future of the sport. What can we expect for the future of lacrosse in Pickerington and central Ohio?
Continued Growth and Expansion
With increasing interest in lacrosse, we can anticipate:
- More youth participants joining programs like LAX Cats
- Expansion of lacrosse programs in schools
- Increased competition and skill levels across the region
Enhanced Resources and Opportunities
As the sport grows, we may see:
- Improved facilities and equipment
- More coaching development programs
- Increased scholarship opportunities for talented players
Community Impact
The growth of lacrosse can benefit the community by:
- Providing more opportunities for youth engagement in sports
- Fostering community pride and unity through local teams
- Attracting lacrosse tournaments and events to the area
As LAX Cats continues to nurture young lacrosse players, the organization is not just developing athletes but also contributing to the growth and vitality of the Pickerington community.
Embracing the Spirit of Lacrosse: More Than Just a Sport
Lacrosse is more than just a game; it’s a tradition with deep roots in Native American culture. How does this heritage influence the modern sport, and what can young players learn from it?
The Medicine Game
Native Americans refer to lacrosse as “The Medicine Game,” believing that it has the power to heal and strengthen communities. This concept emphasizes:
- The importance of community and teamwork
- Respect for opponents and the game itself
- The spiritual and physical benefits of playing
Honoring Tradition in Modern Play
LAX Cats and other youth programs can incorporate these traditional values by:
- Teaching players about the history and cultural significance of lacrosse
- Emphasizing respect, sportsmanship, and fair play
- Encouraging a sense of community among players, families, and supporters
Life Lessons from Lacrosse
Through embracing the spirit of lacrosse, young players can learn valuable life lessons:
- Perseverance and resilience in the face of challenges
- The importance of teamwork and communication
- Respect for diversity and different cultures
- The value of tradition and honoring one’s heritage
By participating in lacrosse through programs like LAX Cats, young athletes not only develop their physical skills but also gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural significance and positive values associated with this unique sport.
Home of the LAX Cats
Celebrating over 15 years of Youth Lacrosse in Pickerington, we are a parent led organization committed to providing opportunities for all youth in our area to learn and play lacrosse – America’s fastest growing youth sport!
After a few days of practice, it is easy to understand why kids love playing lacrosse. It incorporates, basketball, soccer, hockey, and other sports which allows kids who have played other sports to quickly become proficient.
Whether you’re a returning player or new to the sport, we welcome all girls and boys grades 1st thru 6th. Our goal is to help lots of kids to love lacrosse and know how to play. We are committed to creating a fun, positive environment where kids can learn to love America’s original sport. We compete against programs throughout central Ohio. We are a not for profit group made up entirely of parent volunteers.
WHY YOU SHOULD SIGN UP YOUR CHILD FOR LACROSSE
You should try lacrosse for three reasons:
- Lacrosse is incredibly fun.
It’s the fastest sport on two feet. It is an absolute adrenaline rush to run across the field with your team members in this quick paced game. - Lacrosse will make you better at other sports. Lacrosse combines the hustle of soccer, the explosiveness of football, the skill of baseball or softball, and the creative teamwork of basketball. Increasingly college and NFL coaches are pointing to the skills in lacrosse and how they elevate football players.
- LaxCats does our best to create a fun, safe, and positive experience for all of the kids and parents. The Native Americans who gave us the game call it “The Medicine Game” and the belief is that where it is played the people and community are strengthened. We try our best to honor this tradition by creating a supportive and positive environment.
It’s the fastest sport on two feet. It is an absolute adrenaline rush to run across the field with your team members in this quick paced game.
What sport combines the physicality of football, the hustle of soccer, the creative skill of basketball, and a history of grit and honor befitting the original American sport? Boys Lacrosse!
Learn more
We are committed to a fun, positive experience with a sport we love and think you will too.
We have a range of programs for girls from Grades 1-6 tuned to help your kid have a great time learning to love lacrosse and learn how to play.
Learn more
Players, coaches, spectators and parents are to conduct themselves in a manner that “Honors the Game” and demonstrates respect to other players, coaches, officials and spectators. In becoming a member of the Pickerington LAX Cats community, an individual assumes certain obligations and responsibilities to the respective sport and its participants. The essential elements in this “Code of Conduct” are HONESTY and INTEGRITY.
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COME PLAY LACROSSE
Sign up today and enjoy the game!
Register now
About us
LaxCats Lacrosse Association is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization formed in 2001 with the primary goal of promoting lacrosse in Pickerington and surrounding community in Central Ohio.
The mission of the LaxCats is to provide a fun, safe and positive character-building experience for all school-aged boys and girls to learn and experience the game of lacrosse, with an emphasis on inspiring participation, developing fundamental skills, instilling knowledge of the game, and promoting the values of sportsmanship, teamwork, discipline, responsibility, and respect for the sport, officials, coaches, teammates, and self.
Lax Cats Terms | Pickerington Lacrosse
New to lacrosse?
Learn some of the most common terminology of the sport:
- I will sell you on Ebay
You will hear coaches say this when a player isn’t listening. Rest assured that no kids have been sold on Ebay. - Attack Goal Area
The area around the goal defined by the endline, the Goal Area Line and the two broken lines located 20 yards on either side of the goal. Once the offensive team crosses the midfield line, it has 10 seconds to move the ball into its attack goal area. - Body Check
Contact with an opponent from the front – between the shoulders and waist – when the opponent has the ball or is within five yards of a loose ball. At no time should a player initiate or receive body contact with his head. - Box
An area between the two team benches used to hold players who have been served with penalties and through which substitutions “on the fly” are permitted directly from the sideline onto the field. - Cage
Another name for the goal or goal area. Often you may hear the coach yelling “to the cage.” This means get down to the goal area. - Check-Up
A call given by the goalie to tell each defender to find his man and call out his number. - Clamp
A face-off maneuver executed by quickly pushing the back of the stick on top of the ball. - Clearing
Running or passing the ball from the defensive half of the field to the offensive half of the field. - Crease
A circle around the goal with a radius of nine feet into which only defensive players may enter. Defensive players may not take the ball into the crease. - Crosse (Stick)
The equipment used to throw, catch, and carry the ball. - Defensive Clearing Area
The area defined by a line drawn sideline to sideline 20 yards from the face of the goal. Once the defensive team gains possession of the ball in this area, it has 10 seconds to move the ball beyond the Goal Area Line. Once beyond the Goal Area Line, the defensive team may not pass or run the ball back into the Defensive Clearing Area. - Extra Man Offense (EMO)
A man advantage that results from a time-serving penalty by the other team. Also known as “Man Up.” - Face-off
A technique used to put the ball in play at the start of each quarter or after a goal is scored. The players squat down, and the ball is placed between their crosses. - Fast-Break
A transition scoring opportunity in which the offense has at least a one-man advantage. - Goal Line Extended
The imaginary line that extends from the front goal posts to the sideline on either side of the goal. - Ground Ball
A loose ball on the playing field. - Handle (Shaft)
An aluminum, wooden, or composite pole connected to the head of the crosse. - Head
The plastic or wood part of the stick connected to the handle used to catch, throw, and shoot. - Inside
The side closest to the goal. An offensive player cutting to the “inside” would be cutting between his defender and the goal. A defensive player “protecting the inside” would be ensuring an attackman cannot get between him and goal. - Move without the ball
This means to stop standing still and to try to get open for a pass. - Man Down Defense (MDD)
The situation that results from a time-serving penalty which causes the defense to play with at least a one-man disadvantage. - Midfield Line
The line which bisects the field of play. - On-The-Fly Substitution
A substitution made during play. - Outside
The side furthest from the goal. - Pick
An offensive maneuver in which a stationary player attempts to block the path of a defender guarding another offensive player. - Play On
If a player commits a loose-ball technical foul or crease violation and an offended player may be disadvantaged by the immediate suspension of play, the official shall visually and verbally signal “play on” and withhold the whistle until such time as the situation of advantage, gained or lost, has been completed. - Pocket
The strung part of the head of the stick which holds the ball. - Rake
A face-off move in which a player sweeps the ball to the side. - Riding
The act of trying to prevent a team from clearing the ball from the offensive half to defensive half of the field. - Release
The term used by an official to notify a penalized player in the box that he may re-enter the game occurs at the conclusion at a time-serving penalty. - Run thru or to “X”
The “X” is a spot behind the goal. Coaches will yell this to move the ball around or setup a play. - Unsettled Situation
Any situation in which the defense is not positioned correctly, usually due to a loose ball or broken clear. - Yard Sale
When a player gets their stick knock out of the hands during play.
The cat is lethargic and sleeps all the time: causes
The cat sleeps all the time and is lethargic: possible problems
Such symptoms are non-specific – they can signal a variety of problems in the pet’s body. Only a veterinarian can identify some of them.
Cats are characterized by polyphasic sleep. This means that pets do not sleep like people – once, maximum twice a day, but several.
The duration of a “sleep session” of a cat can range from several minutes to several hours, on average, according to scientists, from 50 to 113 minutes. On the whole, daily sleep of animal is from 12 to 18 hours. Sleep more kittens and older individuals .
Sleep allows cats to recover, fill up with energy, regulate emotions and – if everything is in order with health – wake up cheerful and ready for new challenges and games. However, sleep does not always bring strength. If a pet is sick, he can sleep the same amount – or even more, but wake up still lethargic and lethargic. Experts call this state of general oppression.
Causes of general depression
Depression does not necessarily indicate that pathological processes are developing in the pet’s body. However, this cannot be ruled out either. Lead to lethargy, drowsiness and constant apathy can:
Nervous experiences . For you, a move, a trip to the country, a fun party or a car trip is an occasion for positive emotions.
And for a pet – severe stress. Cats love stability: in their opinion, everything in the house should go according to routine once and for all. If this order is violated, the pet does not experience any joy: only fear, discomfort and anxiety.
Heat . The thermometer is inexorably creeping up to around 30 ° C. Or vice versa – it’s winter outside, and the batteries are working with might and main in the room. Such changes are difficult for an animal with a luxurious fur coat. The cat tries to hide where it is at least a little, but cooler: behind the sofa, under the bathroom, in the closet. She constantly sleeps, refuses to play and is in no hurry to answer the call of the owner.
Old age . Trite, but true: age is not conducive to fun games and constant activity. The older your pet gets, the more time it will spend sleeping. And the less interest in life will show.
Heat . In anticipation of oestrus, the cat may become lethargic and drowsy.
The condition may continue after estrus, especially if during this period there was mating and it was successful. The expectant mother needs time for her body to tune in to a new reality.
Inoculation . A drug is introduced into the pet’s body, designed to form his immunity to diseases. The cat develops antibodies – as a response to, in fact, a mild form of the disease. It is not surprising that all the forces of the body are directed in this case to an adequate response. Games and fun can wait.
Anthelmintics . Mandatory, but not the most pleasant procedure, destroys the parasites that have settled in the body of the pet. Dying, they poison the body – veterinarians call this intoxication. Until harmful substances are removed from the body, the cat may be lethargic and sleep a lot.
Neutering or castration . This is a rather serious intervention that will require the restoration and restructuring of the body.
Over time, everything will return to normal, and during this period, the pet needs peace, sleep and the care of the owner.
Conflict with “colleagues” . More often this trouble happens with cats that “walk on their own.” However, pets can also start a fight, defending their territory or the right to leadership. If after the conflict the animal has lost interest in life, it is worth checking if it has suffered more than it seems. Perhaps his behavior is influenced by injuries that are invisible externally.
Feed change . A sensitive cat’s body can react in a similar way even to a change in diet. If you are sure that such changes will benefit your pet, just give him time to get used to the new conditions. If not, perhaps returning to the previous menu would be the best solution.
Disease . Almost all diseases take away vitality from a pet. The cat sleeps more to recover. Refuses food, and sometimes even water.
Other symptoms join the depressed state – pain, nausea, vomiting, stool disorders, bloating, lameness, breathing problems, dryness or cyanosis of the mucous membranes, tear and salivation, cough, fever, purulent discharge, etc. This situation requires urgent intervention from a veterinarian.
In case of any changes in the state and behavior of the pet, it is better to seek professional help from a veterinarian and exclude life-threatening diseases of the animal.
See also:
- My cat is a picky eater
- Cat growth stages: provide the best care at any age
- What to do if the cat does not sleep at night
Diseases of cats: signs and causes
The cat has become lethargic: 9 reasons to take her to the vet
If you notice changes in your cat’s behavior – she sleeps all the time and has stopped eating, call the veterinarian at home.
This may be a sign of an illness in the cat. In a small organism, inflammatory processes pass quickly and it is important not to waste time. The doctor of the “Veterinary Service 005” arrives on a call within an hour.
When to watch out
- If your cat has had a vaccination or surgery of any kind in the previous 24 hours, check with your doctor about how long it will take for the animal to recover. If your pet does not feel better within the time described, call your veterinarian and describe what specifically is causing you concern. The doctor will consult by phone or come to your home for an examination.
- Dry and hot nose. The first sign of elevated body temperature.
- The cat is lethargic and hiding – a reason to call the doctor. When an animal gets sick, in a small space it feels protected.
- The cat’s coat has become dull. A healthy animal has a smooth and shiny coat.
- The cat does not eat well or does not eat at all. And sluggish at the same time. Completely without food, adult cats can do no more than two days. Don’t put off your visit to the vet.
- The cat sleeps a lot. If the cat for no apparent reason began to sleep a lot, this is a reason to call a doctor. There are a lot of reasons: from mild poisoning to purulent inflammation.
- The cat is lethargic and does not drink. 10% fluid loss by the cat’s body leads to irreversible consequences. Wash the bowl with unscented soap and add fresh water. If the animal does not drink clean water, call a doctor.
- The cat sleeps a lot, does not eat at all, does not drink and does not go to the toilet. Usually these are signs of urolithiasis or intestinal obstruction.
- Deviations from the norm of the digestive system: constipation, diarrhea, increased gas formation, etc.
And sluggish at the same time. Completely without food, adult cats can do no more than two days. Don’t put off your visit to the vet.Reasons why a cat feels worse
The main indicator of the presence of the disease is the cat is lethargic and does not eat.
Only a veterinarian can make a correct diagnosis and prescribe the appropriate treatment.
Do not attempt to treat the animal yourself. The wrong decision can turn into a tragedy!
There are many reasons why cats feel unwell:
- internal parasites – worms. At the beginning of the disease, the animal eats well, but loses weight. When the disease is advanced, the cat is not as active as usual. Only a veterinarian can make a diagnosis and prescribe the medicine in the required dosage.
- external parasites – ticks and fleas. The animal is worried about itching. The cat does not necessarily itch, and may lick itself longer than usual. Ticks are life-threatening – it is important to find an insect and submit it for examination. The doctor will examine the animal and make a diagnosis. Similar symptoms can be with allergies.
- Poisoning. The cat might have eaten something inappropriate. Poisoned by expired food. Eat a mouse that has been poisoned. Be sure to let your doctor know what your cat has eaten in the previous 48 hours.
