How are Epoch Lacrosse and deBeer supporting youth lacrosse in Harlem. What impact does the Harlem Lacrosse & Leadership program have on students. How are lacrosse equipment manufacturers innovating stick design.
Epoch and deBeer’s Generous Donation to Harlem Lacrosse & Leadership
In a heartwarming collaboration, Epoch Lacrosse and deBeer Women’s Lacrosse have joined forces to bring joy to 100 girls in the Harlem Lacrosse & Leadership (HLL) program this holiday season. The partnership involves donating custom lacrosse sticks, combining Epoch’s cutting-edge Dragonfly carbon fiber shafts with deBeer’s latest Rapture heads.
Ryan Harrington of deBeer Women’s Lacrosse expressed pride in being part of an initiative that can positively impact so many young lives. He highlighted how the HLL program exemplifies the sport’s potential when stakeholders unite for a greater purpose.
James Miceli, founder and CEO of Epoch Lacrosse, emphasized lacrosse’s role beyond just being a game. He noted its ability to teach valuable life lessons, such as facing fierce competition and mutual respect. Miceli expressed Epoch’s pride in supporting HLL’s efforts to provide inner-city youth with opportunities to play lacrosse and apply on-field lessons to their daily lives.
The Impact of Harlem Lacrosse & Leadership Program
HLL operates as a school-based program in Harlem public middle schools, focusing on students facing academic and behavioral challenges. The program’s impact has been significant:
- Average 6-point GPA increase in core classes for participants
- 9.5-point average GPA increase for special education participants
- 100% on-time middle school to high school graduation rate over the past four years
- $8 million earned in academic scholarship offers
- Nearly $150,000 secured in summer camp scholarships
These impressive results highlight the program’s effectiveness in using lacrosse as a tool for academic and personal development.
Innovation in Lacrosse Equipment Manufacturing
Both Epoch Lacrosse and Gait-deBeer have rich histories of innovation in sports equipment manufacturing:
Gait and deBeer Lacrosse
Dating back to 1889, deBeer initially produced well-loved baseballs and softballs. In the 1980s, under the name K2, the company expanded into lacrosse gear manufacturing. A significant breakthrough came when they applied softball bat alloys to lacrosse stick production. The company’s commitment to innovation strengthened in 1994 through a collaboration with legendary player Paul Gait, steering the brand towards a performance-oriented approach.
Epoch Lacrosse
Epoch Lacrosse focuses on delivering top-quality lacrosse equipment designed to enhance playability and maximize performance. Their approach involves:
- Utilizing world-class materials and manufacturing techniques
- Rigorous testing and re-testing of designs
- Emphasis on durability, playability, and performance
Epoch’s mission is to provide players with every opportunity to reach their full potential, embodied in their slogan: “Live. Play. Be.”
The Growing Importance of Club Lacrosse
Club lacrosse programs play a crucial role in developing young talent and facilitating college recruitment. The article mentions a new Club Commitment Feature, recognizing clubs that excel in placing athletes in NCAA programs. One such featured club is STEPS NJ girls lacrosse, based in North Jersey.
These club programs provide additional training, competition, and exposure opportunities beyond school teams, helping players improve their skills and catch the eye of college recruiters.
College Commitments: A Testament to Player Development
The article highlights two recent college commitments, showcasing the success of youth lacrosse development:
- Marina Granieri, a 2024 graduate and NXT defender from Spring-Ford, committed to play Division III lacrosse at Washington College.
- Chase Kusko, a 2022 and 2023 East Penn All-Conference attackman and midfielder, committed to Muhlenberg College.
These commitments demonstrate the pathways available for dedicated lacrosse players to continue their athletic careers at the collegiate level.
The Cost of Participation: Understanding Lacrosse Program Expenses
While lacrosse offers numerous benefits, it’s important to consider the financial aspects of participation. The article touches on the costs associated with spring recreational programs, particularly for boys:
Required Expenses
One of the primary required expenses is the annual USA Lacrosse membership, which ranges from $15 to $35, depending on the player’s age. This membership is crucial as it provides insurance coverage and supports the national governing body of lacrosse.
Additional costs may include:
- Registration fees for local leagues or clubs
- Equipment costs (stick, helmet, pads, etc.)
- Uniform expenses
- Travel costs for away games or tournaments
Many programs offer payment plans or financial assistance to help make lacrosse more accessible to a wider range of participants.
The Role of Equipment Manufacturers in Growing the Sport
Equipment manufacturers like Epoch, deBeer, and Gait play a crucial role in the growth and development of lacrosse. Their contributions extend beyond just producing gear:
Innovation and Performance
By continually innovating and improving equipment design, these companies enable players to perform at higher levels. Advanced materials like carbon fiber shafts and engineered head designs contribute to increased shot speed, improved ball control, and enhanced durability.
Safety Advancements
Equipment manufacturers also focus on improving player safety through better protective gear. Innovations in helmet design, padding materials, and stick construction help reduce the risk of injuries during play.
Accessibility
By partnering with programs like Harlem Lacrosse & Leadership, equipment manufacturers help make the sport more accessible to underserved communities. Donations of high-quality equipment remove one of the significant barriers to entry for many potential players.
Supporting Growth Initiatives
Many equipment manufacturers actively support lacrosse growth initiatives through sponsorships, clinics, and partnerships with developmental programs. These efforts help introduce the sport to new players and regions, fueling its expansion.
The Future of Lacrosse: Trends and Opportunities
As lacrosse continues to grow in popularity, several trends and opportunities are shaping its future:
Increased Diversity
Programs like Harlem Lacrosse & Leadership are helping to diversify the sport by introducing it to communities that have historically had limited access. This trend is likely to continue, broadening the player base and bringing fresh perspectives to the game.
Technological Integration
Advancements in technology are being incorporated into lacrosse in various ways:
- Smart equipment that can track player performance metrics
- Virtual reality training tools to enhance skills development
- Advanced analytics for game strategy and player evaluation
Expansion of Professional Leagues
The growth of professional lacrosse leagues, both indoor and outdoor, is creating more opportunities for players to continue their careers beyond college. This professional pathway may inspire more youth to take up the sport.
International Growth
While lacrosse has strong roots in North America, it’s gaining popularity in other parts of the world. International growth could lead to increased competition and potentially pave the way for Olympic inclusion in the future.
Emphasis on Player Development
The success of programs like HLL highlights the importance of holistic player development. Future initiatives are likely to focus not just on athletic skills, but also on academic achievement, leadership, and personal growth.
As lacrosse continues to evolve, the collaboration between equipment manufacturers, developmental programs, and dedicated coaches will play a crucial role in shaping its future. The sport’s ability to teach valuable life lessons while providing exciting athletic competition positions it well for continued growth and success.
.@EpochLax partners with @deBeerLacrosse to give custom sticks to girls in Harlem program
By TopLaxRecruits
TopLaxRecruits.com, Posted 12/18/134
From Press Release
Epoch Lacrosse and deBeer Women’s Lacrosse are partnering together this holiday season to give custom new sticks to 100 girls in the Harlem Lacrosse & Leadership program. Epoch will be providing their state-of-the-art Dragonfly carbon fiber shafts and deBeer will be completing the sticks with their latest Rapture heads.
“Epoch and deBeer are true ambassadors for our sport,” said Harlem Lacrosse & Leadership Senior Program Director Joel Censer. “It is amazing to see how these two very competitive companies have come together to do something special for a very deserving group of kids. Their donations will make this holiday season one all of our players will remember for years to come.”
“We are proud to be a small part of something that can change the lives of so many kids,” said Ryan Harrington, DeBeers Women’s Lacrosse. “The Harlem Lacrosse & Leadership program represents the best of what our sport can achieve when everyone works together for the greater good of the sport.”
“Lacrosse is so much more than the game itself,” said James Miceli, founder and CEO of Epoch Lacrosse. “It teaches you how to go head-to-head with your fiercest of competitors and more importantly how to respect each other when the whistle blows. We are proud to be able to assist the HLL in their efforts to give kids in the inner city the opportunity to play lacrosse and apply what they learned on the field into their daily lives.”
To learn more about HLL please visit our website at http://www.harlemlacrosse.org/
ABOUT HLL
HLL is a school-based program that operates in Harlem public middle schools. Throughout the school day, HLL employees work closely with teachers, guidance counselors and school administrators to identify and strategically recruit students who are struggling behaviorally and academically to play lacrosse.
The program has seen statistically significant gains with participants boasting an average 6-point GPA increase in core classes (with an average 9.5 point increase for special education participants). Moreover, one hundred percent of HLL student-athletes have graduated on time from middle school to high school over the past four years. During that time, HLL’s participants also earned $8 million in academic scholarship offers and nearly $150,000 in summer camp scholarships.
About Gait and deBeer Lacrosse
As one of the oldest Sporting Goods manufacturers in the U.S., Gait-deBeer knows and believes in Innovation, Performance and Integrity. As far back as 1889, deBeer manufactured some of the most well-loved baseballs and softballs in the industry. In the 1980s, known as K2, the company began manufacturing lacrosse gear and would soon develop lacrosse sticks using the same alloys found in softball bats. Innovation continued in 1994, when the company teamed up with legendary player, Paul Gait, who directed the organization towards a pure performance orientation.
For more information, visit GaitLacrosse.com and deBeerLacrosse.com. For the latest news and updates, find Gait Lacrosse on social media at Facebook.com/GaitLacrosse and Twitter.com/GaitLacrosse and deBeer Lacrosse on social media at Facebook.com/deBeerLax and Twitter.com/deBeerLacrosse.
About Epoch Lacrosse:
Epoch Lacrosse delivers the finest manufactured lacrosse equipment designed to increase playability and maximize performance by utilizing world-class materials and manufacturing techniques. Epoch tests and re-tests each of its designs to ensure optimal durability, playability and performance. Epoch’s goal is simple, to give players every opportunity to reach their true potential. Live. Play. Be.Visit http://www.EpochLacrosse.com to learn more about Epoch products.You can also follow Epoch on Twitter @epochlax and check out their blog at http://www.LivePlayBe.com
Filed Under: Gear, High School, Mid-Atlantic, New York, Womens/Girls
Club News
As part of our new Club Commitment Feature, we are recognizing clubs that have wowed with placing athletes in NCAA programs.
Today’s featured club is STEPS NJ girls lacrosse out of North
7/12/23 – Royersford, PA – NXT defender Marina Granieri has committed to play division-three lacrosse for Washington College. The Spring-Ford standout is a 2024 graduate and also has the versatility
7/12/23 – Allentown, PA – 2022 and 2023 East Penn All-Conference attackman and midfielder Chase Kusko will continue his athletic career at Muhlenberg College. Kusko heads to Muhlenberg College with
More Club News
Frequently Asked Questions
Spring Recreational Program – Costs & Payment Plans
Boys’ Program Costs
REQUIRED EXPENSES
- Annual USA Lacrosse membership – $15-35 (Depending on age of player)
- Registration fee depending on age: 8U $100; 10U $125; 12U $150; 14U $175
- Clay County Park & Rec Surcharge to help pay for Field Lighting – $25
- Uniform purchase fee (includes jersey and shorts – uniforms purchased for the 2022 spring season will be used for the 2023 season as well) – $45
- Player must provide their own stick & equipment.
Boys equipment includes: helmet, chest/shoulder pads, elbow pads, gloves, mouth guard and athletic cup.
Boys equipment includes: helmet, chest/shoulder pads, elbow pads, gloves, mouth guard and athletic cup.
OPTIONAL EXPENSES
- Protective Equipment rental (includes helmet, shoulder/chest pads, elbow pads and gloves – Does NOT include mouth guard or athletic cup) – $50
- Fleming Island Lacrosse helmet sticker – $10
- Boys Lacrosse Stick Purchase (Warrior EVO Warp) – $75
Payment plans are available – 50% paid upon registration, remaining payments made on 2/15.
The Registration “Frequently Asked Questions” is not currently available.
Girls’ Program Costs
- Annual USA Lacrosse membership – $15-35 (Depending on age of player)
- Registration Fee: $175 (8U/10U/12U/14U Girls Programs)
- Clay County Park & Rec Surcharge to help pay for Field Lighting – $25
- Uniform purchase fee (includes jersey and shorts/skirt – uniforms purchased for the 2022 spring season will be used for the 2023 season as well) – $45
- Player must provide their own stick, eye guard & mouthguard.
Payment plans are available – 50% paid upon registration, remaining payments made on 2/15.
The Registration “Frequently Asked Questions” is not currently available.
Financial Assistance – Player Scholarships
Financial assistance is available if needed. Please complete the Player Scholarship application below to apply.
Scholarship Application (through Fund2Play)
Spring Recreational Program – When do practices start and where are practices held?
Practices for the Spring Recreational Program (K-8) typically begin early to mid-February and run through the end of the season (typically the last weekend of April or mid-May). Practices are 2x/week and the days of the week will be selected by the individual team’s coach(es).
Practices will be held at Thunderbolt Park located at 5700 US-17, Fleming Island, FL 32003. (Located next to the Fleming Island Library).
Spring Recreational Program – When and where are games held?
The youth Boys (K-8) teams play in the North Florida Youth Lacrosse League (NFYLL). Games begin mid-March and end mid- May. Games are played at Julington Creek Plantation Park on Saturdays.
The younger youth girls (grades K-2) will participate in several fun play days throughout the season and the older recreational girls (grades 3-8) play on Sunday afternoons in the Northeast Florida Girls Youth Lacrosse League (NEFGYLL). Games are played in St. John’s County beginning in late February and end late April.
USA Lacrosse Youth Rulebooks
Lacrosse Equipment Requirements
USA Lacrosse Equipment Requirements for Girls and Boys
USAL Equipment Guide – Equipment Overview with Pictures
What equipment is required for boys?
Boys are required to have a stick, a protective helmet, a mouthpiece (color must be highly visible), gloves, shoulder pads, elbow pads and gloves.
Protective cups are strongly recommended and often required. Cleats are preferred but not required. Most players wear lacrosse, football or soccer cleats.
If a player has braces, permanent retainers, etc., it may be necessary to have a customized mouth guard made by an orthodontist/dentist. Please allow 3-4 weeks for this process.
Fleming Island Lacrosse Club offers boys’ equipment rental and reduced cost stick purchase options.
My son wears glasses. Can the glasses be worn under the helmet or are sports goggles preferable?
It can be difficult to wear glasses under the lacrosse helmet in addition to the risk of damage to the glasses or player’s eyes if the glasses break. Prescription sports’ goggles are preferred by most players if contact lenses are not an option.
What equipment is required for girls?
Girls equipment includes a stick (different from the stick used in boys’ lacrosse – see more detailed information below), mouthpiece (must be a readily visible color, NOT clear or white) and protective eyewear (must meet ASTM standard F3077).
Cleats are preferred but not required. Many players wear football, lacrosse or soccer cleats.
If a player has braces, permanent retainers, etc., it may be necessary to have a customized mouth guard made by an orthodontist/dentist. Please allow 3-4 weeks for this process.
Optional Girls’ Helmets for K-8:
Fleming Island Lacrosse Club (FILC) is part of the Northeast Florida Girls’ Youth Lacrosse League and we are governed by US Lacrosse. While the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) has mandated the use of girls helmets in high school, US Lacrosse has not done so for any youth division in the United States. We are insured by US Lacrosse and follow US Lacrosse rules. Therefore, FILC will not require K-8 girls to wear helmets. Helmets are optional and are up to the individual player and their families. For more information, please visit the link included below regarding women’s headgear.
Stick recommendations:
Developmental (K – 2nd) – There is little need to spend a lot of money on a stick in this age bracket.
Color and appeal is the most common reason a player choose a stick while price can be a reason for parents. A starter set (stick, bag and goggle) is a common option for this bracket. Starter sets typically cost $70-80. Some consideration should be given to the weight and shape of a stick. Is the weight appropriate for the player and is the shape comfortable? If a stick is too long for a player it can be cut but remember to take into account a player’s growth before cutting.
Common sticks: deBeer Impluse Pro, STX Racy, STX Lilly, Brine Allure, Brine Mizfit, Brine Pixie
Youth (3rd – 4th) – Players in 3rd and 4th will commonly play with the stick used by developmental players. A stick may have to be replaced if it was cut and the player has outgrown it. 5th grade is a common time for players to move up in stick as they have either grown and need the full length stick or their skills have improved and can benefit from the next level of stick. The ‘next level’ in stick can easily be purchased for $60-80.
Common sticks: deBeer Moxy, deBeer Apex Pro, STX Lotus, Brine Epic, Brine Karma
5th – 8th Grade – 5th or 6th grade is when most players move up in stick as they have either outgrown the stick length or can benefit from the next skill level. The weight and shaft diameter are likely to increase from those commonly used in the Developmental and Youth bracket. The strings of sticks in this bracket should be flexible and allow for a pocket to be formed that allows for catching and holding a ball. For 8th graders it is common for them to upgrade to a stick they will use in high school and may be more defined for a position. Older players in this bracket begin to recognize which sticks they like better because they allow them to catch, throw or shoot more easily.
Common sticks: deBeer NV3, deBeer Defy, deBeer Tempest Pro, STX Tilt2, STX XEN, Brine Amonte, Brine Mantra
USA Lacrosse Women’s Headgear Information and FAQ
My daughter wears glasses.
Do you have any recommendations for protective eyewear that will fit over the glasses and meet the ASTM F3077 requirements?
Yes, there are a couple of products our players have had good success in wearing over glasses in past seasons:
1. Bangerz HS-OTG Goggles Protective Eyeguard, Anti-Fog Over the Glasses Safety Goggles for High Impact Sports – Basketball, Lacrosse, Floor Hockey, Racquetball, Crystal Clear with Wide Vision (available on Amazon and other retailers) – These goggles are specifically designed to fit over glasses and offer good visibility to players.
2. STX 4Sight Pro Goggles – These goggles are ASTM F3077 approved, however they are not specifically designed to fit over glasses. These goggles tend to work for some players with small-medium sized glasses’ frames but please try them on first to make sure.
Where can lacrosse gear and equipment be purchased locally?
Bardown Lacrosse is located in The Promenade at Bartram Springs at 132 Everest Ln # 1, Jacksonville, FL 32259.
