What is the Top Gun Fighting Clams lacrosse club. How does the club approach player development. Why is the Fighting Clams known for college placement services. When was the club founded and by whom. How many players from the program have gone on to play college lacrosse. What impact has the Fighting Clams had on lacrosse in eastern Massachusetts. How does the club structure its practices and events.
The Origins and Evolution of Top Gun Fighting Clams
The Top Gun Fighting Clams lacrosse club was founded in 2003 by Justin Walker. It emerged from a group of all-star players compiled from camps and leagues run by Walker and his associates. As one of the first dedicated lacrosse clubs in the region, the Fighting Clams quickly made a significant impact on developing top lacrosse talent in eastern Massachusetts.
From its inception, the Fighting Clams set out to be more than just a competitive club team. Walker recognized an opportunity to make a lasting impact both on and off the field. This led to the club’s transition into a year-round college placement service, focusing not only on players’ on-field performance but also their academic success.
A Unique Approach to Player Development
The Fighting Clams have developed a distinctive approach to player development that sets them apart from many other lacrosse clubs:
- All players in an age group practice together, mimicking a college program structure
- Players have mobility within the program to find the right on-field experience for their development
- Directors carefully select events and tournaments, creating unique player combinations best suited for each opportunity
- Every player trains alongside the very best in their age group
- Playing time at competitive tournaments is earned, not guaranteed
This structure ensures that players are constantly challenged and given opportunities to improve their skills alongside high-caliber teammates.
The Clams Elite Lacrosse League (CELL)
At the high school level, the Fighting Clams run the Clams Elite Lacrosse League (CELL). This league provides additional competitive opportunities for players to hone their skills and gain exposure to college coaches.
Littlenecks: Developing Youth Talent
In addition to the high school program, the club operates the Littlenecks division, which focuses on youth players up to eighth grade. The Littlenecks run their own Elite Lacrosse League (LELL), ensuring a consistent development pipeline from youth to high school levels.
Pioneering College Placement Services in Lacrosse
One of the most significant innovations introduced by the Fighting Clams was their focus on college placement services. As Justin Walker states, “We were the first club to focus on college placement and that’s become our calling card. It was groundbreaking and we’re really proud of it. We’re much more than a very competitive club. We’re a service for kids to help them to get into college.”
This comprehensive approach to player development and college recruitment has yielded impressive results:
- 780 players from the program have gone on to play college lacrosse
- Over 50 college coaches have been connected to the Fighting Clams program
The club’s success in college placement is attributed to several factors:
- Year-round focus on both athletic and academic performance
- Strong relationships with college coaches across the country
- Personalized guidance for players throughout the recruitment process
- Exposure to college coaches through carefully selected tournaments and events
Impact on New England Lacrosse
The Fighting Clams have become a cornerstone of the lacrosse community in New England, particularly in eastern Massachusetts. Their influence extends beyond just producing talented players:
- Elevating the overall level of play in the region
- Creating a model for other clubs to follow in terms of player development and college placement
- Providing a clear pathway for aspiring lacrosse players to reach the collegiate level
- Fostering a strong lacrosse culture and community in New England
Comprehensive Off-Season Training Programs
The Fighting Clams and Littlenecks programs extend well beyond the traditional lacrosse season. Both divisions offer robust indoor leagues and comprehensive weekly training sessions during the off-season. This year-round approach to player development is designed to:
- Maintain and improve players’ skills throughout the year
- Provide continuous opportunities for growth and improvement
- Keep players engaged with the sport and their teammates
- Prepare athletes for the demands of high-level lacrosse
These off-season programs are a key component of the club’s success in developing top-tier talent and preparing players for collegiate lacrosse.
Leadership and Coaching Excellence
The success of the Fighting Clams can be largely attributed to the leadership and coaching excellence within the program. Justin Walker, the founder, brings over two decades of coaching experience to the club. He is entering his 22nd season as head boys’ lacrosse coach at The Rivers School, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to developing young lacrosse talent.
The club’s coaching staff is comprised of top coaches in the area, many of whom have collegiate or professional playing experience. This high level of coaching expertise ensures that players receive quality instruction and mentorship throughout their time with the Fighting Clams.
Acquisition by 3STEP Sports: A New Chapter
In April 2022, the Top Gun Fighting Clams and Littlenecks lacrosse club was acquired by 3STEP Sports, the nation’s largest club and event operator. This acquisition marks a significant milestone in the club’s history and opens up new opportunities for growth and development.
Key points about the acquisition include:
- 3STEP Sports operates in over 40 states and serves more than 3.1 million athletes across eight sports
- The acquisition is expected to provide Fighting Clams players with more competitive options
- It creates additional opportunities for players who seek them
- The move elevates 3STEP’s lacrosse group by adding a prestigious and successful program
David Geaslen, Founder and CEO of 3STEP Sports, commented on the acquisition: “The Clams and Littlenecks have been a staple in New England for a long time. They are known for excellence on and off the field. Bringing them in elevates our lacrosse group.”
The Future of Fighting Clams Lacrosse
As the Top Gun Fighting Clams enters this new chapter under the 3STEP Sports umbrella, the future looks bright for the program. While maintaining its core values and commitment to player development and college placement, the club is poised to benefit from increased resources and opportunities.
Potential areas for growth and improvement include:
- Expanded tournament and event participation
- Enhanced training facilities and equipment
- Increased exposure to college coaches and recruiters
- Potential for cross-pollination of coaching ideas and methodologies with other 3STEP programs
- Greater reach in talent identification and recruitment
As the lacrosse landscape continues to evolve, the Fighting Clams are well-positioned to maintain their status as one of the premier lacrosse clubs in the nation, continuing to develop top talent and place players in collegiate programs for years to come.
3STEP Acquires Fighting Clams – 3Step Sports
For Immediate Release
ONE OF THE OLDEST AND MOST STORIED CLUBS IN THE NATION
WILMINGTON, Mass. (April 6, 2022) – 3STEP Sports, the nation’s largest and most impactful club and event operator, has added a key piece to the lacrosse division by acquiring the Top Gun Fighting Clams and Littlenecks lacrosse club, one of the oldest and most successful clubs in the country.
Based in Boston, the Clams are an elite high school program with top coaches in the area, while the Littlenecks focus on youth to eighth grade. Both programs have robust indoor leagues in the offseason, as well as comprehensive weekly trainings to maximize off-season player development. At the high school level, the Clams run the Clams Elite Lacrosse League (CELL), while the Littlenecks power the Littlenecks Elite Lacrosse League (LELL).
The Clams were founded by Justin Walker in 2003, after starting out as a group of more sporadically compiled all-star players that emerged from camps and leagues that the group also ran.
Once the Clams became known as such, the program’s impact on the development of a majority of eastern Massachusetts’ best lacrosse players was immediate. Walker identified the Clams as one of the only lacrosse clubs in the region and began focusing on ways that they could make just as big of an impact off the field as they could on it. So, the Clams transitioned to a year-round college placement service, focusing on their on-field performance and academics, while also using Walker’s relationships to connect players to the vast network of college coaches.
“We were the first club to focus on college placement and that’s become our calling card,” said Walker, who is entering his 22nd season as head boys’ lacrosse coach at The Rivers School. “It was groundbreaking and we’re really proud of it. We’re much more than a very competitive club. We’re a service for kids to help them to get into college.”
Every player in an age group practices together, like a college program, and all players have the mobility needed to find the on-field experience necessary for their development.
Each event selected by the directors prior to each season features a unique combination of the club’s players best suited to that event. All players have the chance to train with their age group’s very best. Most importantly, every player earns their right to be on the field at the most competitive and cherished tournaments.
Over the years, 780 kids from the program have gone on to play in college and more than 50 college coaches have been connected to Clams. Walker says joining 3STEP will give his players more competitive options and create more opportunities for those who want them.
The 3STEP reach spans 40+ states and serves more than 3.1 million athletes across eight sports through industry-leading events, nationally spanning club programs, premier media content and more. The mission of 3STEP is to be the standard of the youth sports experience and create consistency in the industry.
“The Clams and Littlenecks have been a staple in New England for a long time,” said 3STEP Founder and CEO David Geaslen.
“They are known for excellence on and off the field. Bringing them in elevates our lacrosse group.”
###
To learn more about 3STEP Sports, go to www.threestep.com.
For more on the Top Gun Fighting Clams, go to www.topgunlax.com
Contact:
Walker Jones, 3STEP Sports: [email protected]
Kevin Flight, Elevate Communications: [email protected] or 617-861-3657
-30-
Lacrosse Equipment, Apparel, and Lacrosse Highlights
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Maverik M5 Glove
Maverik
The Maverik M5 mens lacrosse glove has the classic fit, that was redesigned for unrestricted movement and precision feel.
You will find instant comfort right off the shelf. Our Pro’s find that Maverik gloves have a roomy fit and also affords players some extra space on the back of the hand.
148270
$139.99
Maverik Optik 3
Maverik
The Maverik Optik 3.0 Lacrosse Head for the driving dodger, feeding visionary or illusive finisher, the Optik 3 combines features best suited for those quickest around the crease. An increased offset, dual-strut sidewall and optimal face shape strike a perfect balance to catch, carry and control with brilliance.
165622
$99.99
Nike Alpha Huarache 8 Elite
Nike
The Nike Alpha Huarache 8 Elite lacrosse cleat provides comfort, stability and flex for the field. The Nike Alpha Huarache 8 Elite is designed for the player that’s on the field every day, putting in the work
165754
$110.97
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$129.99
STX Surgeon 900
STX
The STX Surgeon 900 lacrosse head is built for the elite level attackman.
Used by Justin Guterding, who led the way for Chrome LC in the PLL.
148961
$99.99
Q-Collar
Q-Collar
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174572
$199.99
Nike Alpha Huarache 8 Varsity
Nike
The Nike Alpha Huarache 8 Varsity was made for the demands of the game. The brand-new mesh in the upper is super lightweight and minimizes distractions, perfect for the beginner player. The flexible TPU plate is comfortable enough for all the miles you put in on the field. Our Pro’s love the shorter break in period the cleats have coming from the flexible TPU plate.
165877
$76.97
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$89.99
ECD Infinity Pro Complete Stick
East Coast Dyes
All our Pro’s can say is WOW! The ECD Infinity Pro shaft to the Infinity Pro head, this setup was built to be light, fast,and consistent.
167995
$249.99
For Men
Maverik Tactik 3.0
Maverik
The newly updated Maverik Tactik 3.0 men’s lacrosse head is built to control the offensive zone, and is always a threat to score or feed. Our Pro’s think this head is designed for the mid-range shooter and precision passer. The new Tactik 3.0 has been updated with ControlCore Technology, providing superior ball control when possessing, feeding and shooting. This head features 20 stringing holes, so the custom pocket options are endless. Want custom stringing colors? Check out our customizers, and our Premier Custom Stringing.
Level 3 Bottom Rail: Mid-Pocket recommended Optimal Release Point Duratough Materail Ground Control Scoop Control Core Made in the USA
175499
$99.99
Maverik A1 Shaft
Maverik
The new Maverik A1 men’s lacrosse shaft is lighter, faster and stronger than its predecessor. The A1 is made with Scandium alloy, and has a thinner wall thickness for an unbelievable lightweight feel.
61071
$99.99
STX Stallion 1k
STX
The STX Stallion 1K mens lacrosse head is designed for the elite, all-around midfielder. This lacrosse head uses EnduraForm – a proprietary material for improved toughness and combined with a Speed Scoop which makes for the easiest ground balls in the game
181839
$99.99
STX SC-TI X
STX
The STX Sc-Ti X lacrosse shaft has one of the best strength to weight ratio’s in the game. This shaft is primarily coveted by attackmen and midfielders that want the lightest feeling shaft on the market.
120822
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Maverik Optik 3
Maverik
The Maverik Optik 3.0 Lacrosse Head for the driving dodger, feeding visionary or illusive finisher, the Optik 3 combines features best suited for those quickest around the crease. An increased offset, dual-strut sidewall and optimal face shape strike a perfect balance to catch, carry and control with brilliance.
165622
$99.99
Maverik Hypercore 2024
Maverik
The Maverik Hypercore lacrosse shaft for midfield and attack is a welcome addition to the Maverik Carbon shaft family. Made from Carbon Composite, this lightweight shaft provides ultimate performance at the right price point.
177535
$99.99
Warrior Evo QX2-O
Warrior
Warrior Evo QX2-O Lacrosse Head
175145
$129.99
Maverik Hyperlite Shaft 2024
Maverik
The Maverik Hyperlite lacrosse shaft sets the standard for collegiate and high school level play that is light as a feather and it can stand up to the punishment of big boy play
177524
$149.
99
Maverik Kinetik 3
Maverik
Maverik Kinetik 3 – Designed for every style of play – Get this men’s lacrosse head professionally strung with custom colors, ready to eat up groundballs, and throwing on a dime at Lax.com!
192240
$99.99
Warrior Evo QX2 Carbon Shaft
Warrior
Warrior Evo QX2 Carbon Shaft
175163
$149.99
Nike Alpha Huarache 8 Pro Turf
Nike
The Nike Alpha Huarache 8 Pro Turf Shoe is the perfect turf shoe whether you’re playing in the box or just hitting the turf. The Nike Alpha Huarache 8 Pro Turf was specifically designed for comfort, stability and flexibility on the field. Skins and TPU molding on the upper create a stable feel, while active pegs retract and extend so you have traction when and where you need it most.
165954
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$79.99
Maverik M5 EKG Speed Pad
Maverik
The Maveirk M5 EKG Speed Pad provides high-level protection with Maverik’s External Kardiac Guard (EKG).
This shoulder pad liner meets the new NOCSAE performance standard ND200.
148292
$124.99
Nike Alpha Huarache 8 Elite
Nike
The Nike Alpha Huarache 8 Elite lacrosse cleat provides comfort, stability and flex for the field. The Nike Alpha Huarache 8 Elite is designed for the player that’s on the field every day, putting in the work
165754
$110.97
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$129.99
STX Cell 5 Arm Guard
STX
The STX Cell V arm guards are a step up from their predecessor the Cell IV. These pads will be worn by the elite collegiate attackmen and middies in the nation for hinge free padding and the non slip arm sleeve. STX also added a floating, hard plastic elbow cap which provides added low-profile slash protection.
149302
$109.99
$84.99
Nike Alpha Huarache 8 Varsity
Nike
The Nike Alpha Huarache 8 Varsity was made for the demands of the game. The brand-new mesh in the upper is super lightweight and minimizes distractions, perfect for the beginner player./cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/60794897/LXM18_PENN_037_.0.jpg)
The flexible TPU plate is comfortable enough for all the miles you put in on the field. Our Pro’s love the shorter break in period the cleats have coming from the flexible TPU plate.
165877
$76.97
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$89.99
STX Surgeon RZR Gloves
STX
The STX Surgeon RZR lacrosse gloves are one of the lightest, high-end gloves available on the market without suffering protection. They also offer one of the best palms in the game.
120852
$179.99
Nike Alpha Huarache 8 Pro
Nike
The Nike Alpha Huarache 8 Pro lacrosse cleat provides comfort, stability and flex for the field. This lacrosse cleat was made for the demands of the game.
165665
$85.97
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$99.99
Maverik M5 Glove
Maverik
The Maverik M5 mens lacrosse glove has the classic fit, that was redesigned for unrestricted movement and precision feel. You will find instant comfort right off the shelf. Our Pro’s find that Maverik gloves have a roomy fit and also affords players some extra space on the back of the hand.
148270
$139.99
Nike Alpha Huarache 8 Youth
Nike
Passion. Energy. Focus. They’re all represented in the Nike Alpha Huarache 8 Elite Youth Lacrosse cleat. With a mindful upper that uses synthetic material to bring the comfort you’ve come to know and love, expressive colorways and maximum flexibility in the plate, this cleat is primed to be an on-field favorite. Our Pro’s love the different colorways these cleats are available in, while the flexible bottom plate allows for an easy break in process.
165843
$54.99
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For Women
STX Crux Pro with Flex Mesh Complete Stick
STX
Lax.com Exclusive! STX Crux Pro Women’s Lacrosse Complete Stick With All New Flex Mesh – Strung By The Pro’s At Lax.com – It’s time to dominate the field!
167773
$219.99
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$299.99
STX Crux Pro Handle
STX
The Crux Pro handle is a step up from its predecsseor the STX Crux 600 Precision Flex.
The lightweight, low-profile composite lacrosse shaft has targeted strength in high-impact zones.
149224
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$99.99
Maverik Ascent + Complete Stick
Maverik
The Maverik Ascent + women’s complete lacrosse stick is tenacious in unsettled situations. Our Pro’s love the new soft touch grip finish on this stick and the consistent channel which puts the ball in the sweet spot every time for a quick release.
166285
$249.99
Brine Dynasty Composite Shaft
Brine
Classic octagonal shape• Comfort-grip finish for all weather conditions
165057
$59.99
$49.99
STX Exult Pro Crux Mesh 2.0 Complete Stick
STX
The STX Exult Pro Elite women’s complete stick is used by World Champion Michele Tumolo, and other Division I college players. The Crux Pro has been upgraded for the ultimate in control, precision and accuracy for elite level attackers.
180206
$274.99
Maverik Ascent + Shaft
Maverik
Light and strong.
The ASCENT+ women’s lacrosse shaft is the go-to shaft for the elite player.
166332
$98.99
ECD Infinity Pro Complete Stick
East Coast Dyes
All our Pro’s can say is WOW! The ECD Infinity Pro shaft to the Infinity Pro head, this setup was built to be light, fast,and consistent.
167995
$249.99
ECD Infinity Pro USA 2023 Handle
East Coast Dyes
ECD Infinity Pro USA 2023 women’s lacrosse handle can upgrade your game!
192614
$114.99
Brine Edge Pro Plus Complete Stick
Brine
Brine Edge Pro + Women’s Lacrosse Stick
175252
$269.99
Brine Edge Pro Carbon Freeze Handle
Warrior
Grab this Limited Edition shaft while you can! The Edge Carbon women’s lacrosse handle features a mid-size octagon shape and a soft coat finish.
177779
$119.99
STX Focus TI-S+ Goggle
STX
The STX Focus TI-S+ women’s lacrosse goggle has a new double bar design which enhances comfort and offers extra visibility.
This goggle meets ASTM standards for women’s lacrosse.
167700
$99.99
Gait Air Head Strung
Gait
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122920
$219.99
STX Focus XV-S Goggle
STX
2Low profile double bar cage design for superior visibility2Form-fitting silicone padding is easy to clean and does not absorb sweat or moisture, minimizing potential breakouts2Meets ASTM F3077 requirements for women’s lacrosse2SEI certified
149217
$79.
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Maverik Ascent + Head Unstrung
Maverik
The ASCENT + women’s lacrosse head is for a player who is not afraid to make an impact on the field. Have it strung up by our Pro’s!
166329
$129.99
Brine Dynasty 2 Goggles
Brine
Get an unobstructed view with the Brine® Women’s Dynasty II Lacrosse Goggles.
120373
$54.99
$44.99
Epoch Purpose 10 Degree Strung w. Factory Tie Up Pro Mesh
Epoch
The Epoch Purpose™ 10-Degree women’s lacrosse head strung with Factory Tie Up Pro Mesh is engineered down to the smallest detail and has been proven at the highest level. Designed, and manufactured right here in the USA, the Purpose™ features Epoch’s patent pending 10-degree bottom rail.
168081
$129.99
Cascade LX Lacrosse Headgear
Cascade
All new women’s lacrosse helmets have been mandated in Florida and we expect many other states to follow shortly. The Cascade LX Women’s Lacrosse Helmet is a holistic girl’s headgear solution with an integrated goggle that meets the new ASTM standard for goggles and headgear.
This women’s lacrosse helmet was specifically designed for the girls lacrosse game by Cascade. This women’s lacrosse helmet offers a customizable fit system, and has a lightweight, ventilated design that makes it easy to increase the level of protected on the field. To learn more about women’s lacrosse helmets and headgear read our blog post.At the moment there are only the basic color patterns available from Cascade for these girl’s helmets. We expect them to have the ability to be customized at a point in the future when they can catch up with demand.
66960
$159.99
ECD Infinity Pro USA 2023 Handle
East Coast Dyes
ECD Infinity Pro USA 2023 women’s lacrosse handle can upgrade your game!
192614
$114.99
Brine Edge Pro Carbon Freeze Handle
Warrior
Grab this Limited Edition shaft while you can! The Edge Carbon women’s lacrosse handle features a mid-size octagon shape and a soft coat finish.
177779
$119.99
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