What are the different types of lacrosse programs offered by Intermountain Lacrosse. How does registration work for fall lacrosse leagues. What are the office hours for Intermountain Lacrosse throughout the year. Where is Intermountain Lacrosse located.
Overview of Intermountain Lacrosse Programs
Intermountain Lacrosse is a youth lacrosse organization based in Utah that offers a variety of programs for boys and girls in grades K-8. Their mission is to promote the sport of lacrosse and provide opportunities for young athletes to develop their skills in a fun, competitive environment.
Key Programs Offered
- Fall Lacrosse League (Grades K-8)
- Spring Season Programs
- Summer Camps and Clinics
- Winter Indoor Leagues
Fall Lacrosse League Registration Process
Registration for the Fall Lacrosse League typically opens in mid-July. For the upcoming season, registration opens on Wednesday, July 19th. Intermountain Lacrosse has implemented a new registration platform, requiring all participants (both new and returning) to create a new account.
Registration Steps
- Visit the Intermountain Lacrosse website
- Click on the Fall Registration link
- Create a new account (even if you’ve registered before)
- Complete the registration form
- Pay the registration fee
Are there any age restrictions for the Fall Lacrosse League? The Fall Lacrosse League is open to boys and girls in grades K-8, providing opportunities for players of various skill levels and experience.
Intermountain Lacrosse Office Hours and Seasonal Operations
Intermountain Lacrosse operates year-round, with office hours varying by season to best accommodate the needs of players and families. Here’s a breakdown of their office hours throughout the year:
Spring Season (February 1 – May 31)
- Monday-Friday: 11:00am – 6:00pm
- Saturday-Sunday: Closed
Summer Season (June 1 – July 31)
- Monday-Thursday: 11:00am – 5:00pm
- Friday-Sunday: Closed
Fall Season (August 8 – October 31)
- Monday-Friday: 11:00am – 5:00pm
- Saturday-Sunday: Closed
Winter Season (November 1 – January 31)
- Monday-Thursday: 11:00am – 5:00pm
- Friday-Sunday: Closed
Does Intermountain Lacrosse operate on holidays? The organization is closed on State and Federal Holidays, as well as from December 21st to January 2nd for the winter break.
Contact Information and Location
For questions regarding registration or general lacrosse inquiries, Intermountain Lacrosse can be reached through the following channels:
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: (801) 590-9950
- Address: 676 W. Confluence Ave (4260 South), Murray, UT 84123
How can parents get in touch with Intermountain Lacrosse outside of regular office hours? While the office may be closed, parents can send an email to [email protected] at any time, and a staff member will respond during the next business day.
Types of Lacrosse: Understanding the Variations
Lacrosse is a diverse sport with several variations, each offering unique challenges and opportunities for players. Understanding these different types can help young athletes and their families choose the best fit for their interests and skills.
Indoor Lacrosse
Indoor lacrosse primarily consists of two variants:
- Box Lacrosse: Played on an ice-free hockey rink, typically indoors but occasionally outdoors. It features 6v6 gameplay, including a goaltender and 5 “runners.”
- Intercrosse (Soft Lacrosse): A modified, non-contact version of lacrosse often used for introductory programs or in school settings.
Outdoor Lacrosse
Outdoor lacrosse is divided into two main categories:
- Boys’ and Men’s Field Lacrosse: Played on a full soccer or football field, typically with 10 players per team. Modified versions include 7v7 and the new Olympic 6v6 format.
- Girls’ and Women’s Field Lacrosse: Also played on a full field but with 12 players per team. This version has distinct rules and equipment compared to the boys’ and men’s game.
How do the rules differ between boys’ and girls’ lacrosse? The most significant differences include the level of physical contact allowed, equipment requirements, and certain gameplay rules such as stick checking and draw controls.
Youth Lacrosse Programs and Divisions
Youth lacrosse programs are typically organized by age groups to ensure fair competition and appropriate skill development. While specific age divisions may vary by region and organization, here’s a general overview of common youth lacrosse categories:
Box Lacrosse Divisions
- U5 “Peanut” Division (Ages 3-4)
- Minor Lacrosse (Ages 5-21)
- Rep Lacrosse (Provincial level competition)
- Recreational or “House League” Lacrosse
Field Lacrosse Divisions
- U7 to U17 (Minor Field)
- U19 Junior Men
- Senior Men
What is the difference between “rep” and “recreational” lacrosse? Rep lacrosse involves higher-level competition, often with travel to other regions, while recreational or house league lacrosse focuses on local play and skill development for players of all abilities.
Benefits of Youth Lacrosse Participation
Engaging in youth lacrosse programs like those offered by Intermountain Lacrosse can provide numerous benefits for young athletes. These advantages extend beyond physical fitness, contributing to overall personal development and life skills.
Physical Benefits
- Improved cardiovascular endurance
- Enhanced hand-eye coordination
- Increased agility and speed
- Development of overall athletic ability
Mental and Social Benefits
- Teamwork and cooperation skills
- Leadership development
- Improved self-confidence
- Stress relief and mental health benefits
- Time management and discipline
How does lacrosse contribute to a child’s overall development? Lacrosse combines elements of strategy, physical fitness, and teamwork, fostering critical thinking skills, social interaction, and personal growth in a fun, competitive environment.
Equipment and Safety in Youth Lacrosse
Proper equipment and safety measures are crucial in youth lacrosse to ensure player protection and enjoyment of the sport. While specific requirements may vary based on the type of lacrosse and age group, here are some general guidelines:
Essential Equipment for Boys’ Lacrosse
- Helmet with face mask
- Shoulder pads
- Arm pads
- Gloves
- Mouthguard
- Athletic supporter (cup)
- Lacrosse stick
- Cleats or turf shoes
Essential Equipment for Girls’ Lacrosse
- Protective eyewear
- Mouthguard
- Lacrosse stick
- Cleats or turf shoes
Why is there a difference in equipment requirements between boys’ and girls’ lacrosse? The variations in equipment reflect the different levels of physical contact allowed in each version of the sport, with boys’ lacrosse permitting more body checking and stick contact.
Safety Measures in Youth Lacrosse
- Proper coaching and instruction on safe play techniques
- Enforcement of age-appropriate rules and modifications
- Regular equipment checks and maintenance
- Adequate warm-up and conditioning to prevent injuries
- Hydration and nutrition education for young athletes
Intermountain Lacrosse prioritizes player safety in all its programs, ensuring that coaches are trained in proper techniques and that all equipment meets safety standards. Parents and players are encouraged to familiarize themselves with safety guidelines and report any concerns to program administrators.
Preparing for the Fall Lacrosse Season
As the Fall Lacrosse League approaches, there are several steps players and parents can take to ensure a successful and enjoyable season with Intermountain Lacrosse:
Pre-Season Preparation
- Review and understand the registration process
- Ensure all required equipment is in good condition
- Begin conditioning exercises to improve fitness
- Practice basic lacrosse skills at home
- Attend any pre-season clinics or camps offered
What to Expect During the Season
- Regular practices (typically 1-2 times per week)
- Weekend games or tournaments
- Skill development sessions
- Team-building activities
- Possible travel for away games
How can parents support their child’s lacrosse development? Parents can assist by encouraging regular practice, attending games, helping with equipment maintenance, and fostering a positive attitude towards teamwork and sportsmanship.
Advancing in Lacrosse: Pathways for Continued Growth
For young athletes who develop a passion for lacrosse through programs like Intermountain Lacrosse, there are numerous opportunities to continue their involvement in the sport as they grow older. Understanding these pathways can help players and parents set long-term goals and make informed decisions about their lacrosse journey.
High School Lacrosse
- Varsity and Junior Varsity teams
- Opportunity for local and regional competition
- Potential for college recruitment exposure
Club Lacrosse
- Year-round training and competition opportunities
- Participation in showcase tournaments
- Higher level of competition and skill development
College Lacrosse
- NCAA Divisions I, II, and III programs
- NAIA programs
- Club lacrosse teams at colleges and universities
Professional Lacrosse
- Major League Lacrosse (MLL)
- National Lacrosse League (NLL)
- Premier Lacrosse League (PLL)
What steps can young players take to improve their chances of playing lacrosse at higher levels? Consistent practice, participation in multiple lacrosse programs and camps, maintaining good academic standing, and developing strong leadership and teamwork skills are all crucial for advancing in the sport.
Community Impact and Involvement in Youth Lacrosse
Organizations like Intermountain Lacrosse play a significant role in their local communities, extending beyond just providing athletic opportunities. Understanding this broader impact can help families appreciate the value of youth lacrosse programs and encourage greater community involvement.
Economic Impact
- Job creation (coaches, officials, administrators)
- Boost to local businesses through tournaments and events
- Increased tourism from visiting teams and families
Social Impact
- Promotion of physical activity and healthy lifestyles
- Development of community pride and identity
- Creation of social networks and support systems
- Opportunities for volunteerism and community service
Educational Impact
- Reinforcement of academic values and time management skills
- Potential for athletic scholarships and college opportunities
- Development of life skills applicable beyond sports
How can community members support youth lacrosse programs? Community members can contribute by volunteering as coaches or officials, sponsoring teams or events, attending games to show support, and advocating for lacrosse facilities and programs in local government initiatives.
By fostering a strong lacrosse community, organizations like Intermountain Lacrosse not only provide valuable athletic opportunities for youth but also contribute to the overall well-being and development of their local areas. This holistic approach to youth sports creates a positive cycle of engagement, support, and growth that benefits players, families, and the broader community.
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The Different Types Of Lacrosse
Lacrosse is divided into two main types – indoor and outdoor.
The indoor game is primarily box lacrosse, and sometimes intercrosse also known as soft lacrosse. The outdoor game is divided into boy’s & men’s field lacrosse and girl’s and women’s field lacrosse.
Box Lacrosse is played on an ice-free hockey rink, which is usually indoors, but sometimes may be an outdoor rink. Box, sometimes called ‘boxla,’ is a 6v6 game, which includes a goaltender and 5 ‘runners.’ The ‘floor’ is divided into offensive and defensive zones and the object of the game is to score more goals than the other team in the allotted time, usually three periods of varying length; shorter periods for younger players and a full 20-minute stop-time period for Junior (U21) and above.
Youth box lacrosse in Ontario is referred to as ‘minor lacrosse’ or ‘minor box’ and can include both boys and girls, although there is a girls-only box sector that goes all the way to a women’s league. Minor lacrosse played at the provincial level is called ‘rep’ (short for ‘representational’) lacrosse.
Teams are organized around age categories from 5 to 21 years and compete all summer culminating in the Provincial Championship, usually held the first two weeks of August at the Ontario Lacrosse Festival.
Minor Lacrosse played at the local level is often referred to as ‘rec’ or ‘recreational’ lacrosse, and better known as ‘house league.’ In Oshawa, our house league is called the City League and teams compete for the City Championship after a 10 week season that begins in April and finishes at the end of June. Oshawa’s rec box programs include a U5 ‘Peanut’ division for players aged 3& 4, but they do not play competitive games. While contact is a part of box lacrosse, City League has modified contact rules to favour the development of stick & game skills for newer players.
Boy’s and Men’s Field Lacrosse is played on a full soccer or football field usually between teams of 10 players each, although popular modifications include a 7v7 format and the new 6v6 Olympic format.
The latter are played across the width of the field rather than the full length. Field lacrosse in Ontario ranges from ‘minor field’ with age categories ranging from U7 to U17 and play a short spring season with Provincials in late May; U19 Junior Men & Senior Men play in the autumn. Boy’s and Men’s Field Lacrosse is a full contact sport and the equipment – including the stick – is compatible with box lacrosse. Oshawa Blue Knights enters teams in the minor field season as part of the rep team programming. A separate U19 club operates the Junior Men Blue Knights. Many local high schools also enter field lacrosse as part of their varsity athletic program.
Girl’s and Women’s Field Lacrosse is played on a full soccer or football field between teams of 12 players each. There are also 7v7 & 6v6 rule modifications. Girl’s and Women’s field lacrosse is a significantly different game than Boy’s and Men’s field lacrosse. There are more players on the field, the game is non-contact, there is much less equipment, and they play with a much shallower stick.
