Lacrosse camps for kids. Lacrosse Summer Camps for Kids: Exciting Opportunities in Massachusetts

Where can you find the best lacrosse summer camps for kids in Massachusetts. How do these camps benefit young athletes. What skills and experiences can children gain from attending lacrosse camps.

The Rise of Lacrosse: America’s Fastest Growing Sport

Lacrosse has been making waves in the world of youth sports, earning the title of “fastest growing sport in the U.S.” according to Sports Illustrated. This ancient game, often referred to as the “fastest game on two feet,” has captured the hearts of young athletes across the nation, particularly in Massachusetts. The surge in popularity is evident in high schools, where lacrosse has become one of the most sought-after team sports.

Why has lacrosse gained such traction? The sport offers a unique blend of physicality, strategy, and teamwork that appeals to many young athletes. Its fast-paced nature and the opportunity for players to develop a diverse skill set make it an exciting option for kids looking to try something new or expand their athletic horizons.

Massachusetts Lacrosse Summer Camps: A Gateway to Excellence

For children in Massachusetts eager to dive into the world of lacrosse, summer camps provide an ideal starting point. These camps offer a structured environment where kids can learn the fundamentals of the sport, improve their skills, and foster a love for the game. Massachusetts, with its rich sporting culture, hosts numerous high-quality lacrosse camps that cater to various age groups and skill levels.

What Makes Massachusetts Lacrosse Camps Stand Out?

• Expert coaching from experienced players and professionals
• State-of-the-art facilities and equipment
• Age-appropriate instruction and drills
• Emphasis on both individual skill development and team play
• Opportunities for competitive play and scrimmages

These camps not only focus on developing lacrosse skills but also emphasize important life lessons such as teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship. Many camps in Massachusetts pride themselves on creating a positive and encouraging environment where young athletes can thrive both on and off the field.

Beginner-Friendly Programs: Nurturing New Talent

One of the key features of many Massachusetts lacrosse camps is their dedication to welcoming beginners. These camps understand the importance of introducing the sport in a way that is both engaging and accessible to newcomers. How do they achieve this?

• Providing loaner equipment at no extra cost
• Offering both half-day and full-day options to suit different schedules
• Tailoring instruction to various age groups and skill levels
• Incorporating fun, non-lacrosse activities to keep the experience enjoyable

Beginner camps often focus on teaching the basic rules, techniques, and strategies of lacrosse in a step-by-step manner. This approach ensures that new players can build a solid foundation and grow their skills progressively throughout the camp duration.

Advanced Training for Experienced Players

While beginner programs are crucial, Massachusetts lacrosse camps also cater to more experienced players looking to elevate their game. These advanced camps often feature:

• Intensive skill-building sessions
• Position-specific training
• Advanced tactical and strategic instruction
• Exposure to college-level coaching and playing styles
• Opportunities for recruitment showcases

For high school players aspiring to play at the collegiate level, these camps can be invaluable. They provide a platform to showcase skills, receive expert feedback, and potentially catch the eye of college recruiters.

The Social Aspect: Building Friendships and Team Spirit

Lacrosse camps offer more than just athletic training; they provide a unique social experience for young players. How do these camps foster camaraderie and team spirit?

• Group activities and team-building exercises
• Shared meals and downtime for socializing
• Themed days or special events to promote unity
• Emphasis on supportive peer relationships

Many children form lasting friendships at these camps, bonding over their shared love of lacrosse. This social aspect can be particularly beneficial for kids who may be shy or struggle to connect with peers in other settings.

Health and Fitness Benefits of Lacrosse Camps

Participating in a lacrosse summer camp can have numerous health and fitness benefits for children. The sport’s dynamic nature promotes:

• Cardiovascular endurance
• Strength and muscle development
• Agility and coordination
• Hand-eye coordination
• Overall physical fitness

Beyond the physical aspects, lacrosse camps also contribute to mental health by reducing stress, boosting self-esteem, and teaching valuable coping skills through competitive play.

Choosing the Right Lacrosse Camp in Massachusetts

With numerous options available, selecting the right lacrosse camp for your child can seem daunting. Consider the following factors when making your decision:

1. Location and accessibility
2. Camp duration and schedule
3. Skill level and age group focus
4. Coaching staff credentials
5. Facilities and equipment provided
6. Cost and potential financial aid options
7. Camp philosophy and values

It’s important to involve your child in the decision-making process, as their enthusiasm and comfort with the chosen camp can greatly impact their experience.

Preparing for Lacrosse Camp: Essential Tips

Once you’ve selected a camp, helping your child prepare can ensure they have the best possible experience. Here are some key tips:

• Ensure your child has proper athletic clothing and footwear
• Pack plenty of water and healthy snacks
• Apply sunscreen and bring a hat for outdoor sessions
• Discuss expectations and goals with your child before camp starts
• Encourage a positive attitude and openness to learning

If your child is new to lacrosse, consider introducing them to some basic concepts or watching games together before camp begins. This can help them feel more confident and prepared on their first day.

What to Expect During a Typical Day at Lacrosse Camp

While schedules may vary, a typical day at a Massachusetts lacrosse camp might include:

• Morning warm-up and stretching exercises
• Skill-building drills and technique practice
• Small-sided games or scrimmages
• Lunch break and rest period
• Afternoon sessions focusing on team strategies or specialized skills
• Cool-down activities and reflections on the day’s learning

Many camps also incorporate guest speakers, video analysis sessions, or special events to enhance the overall experience.

The Long-Term Impact of Lacrosse Camps

Attending a lacrosse summer camp can have lasting benefits that extend far beyond the camp’s duration. These experiences often:

• Ignite a lifelong passion for the sport
• Develop leadership skills and confidence
• Improve overall athletic performance
• Create memories and friendships that last for years
• Potentially open doors to future opportunities in lacrosse

Many professional and collegiate lacrosse players credit their early camp experiences as pivotal moments in their athletic journeys.

How Lacrosse Camps Contribute to Character Development

Beyond the physical and technical aspects of the sport, lacrosse camps play a crucial role in character development. They instill values such as:

• Perseverance in the face of challenges
• Respect for teammates, opponents, and officials
• Time management and discipline
• Goal-setting and achievement
• Sportsmanship and fair play

These life skills serve young athletes well both on and off the field, contributing to their personal growth and future success.

The Role of Parents in Supporting Young Lacrosse Players

Parents play a vital role in their child’s lacrosse journey, especially when it comes to summer camps. How can parents best support their young athletes?

• Encourage participation without applying undue pressure
• Show interest in their progress and experiences
• Provide emotional support, especially during challenging moments
• Reinforce the lessons and values taught at camp
• Help maintain skills and fitness between camp sessions

It’s important for parents to strike a balance between being supportive and allowing their child to take ownership of their lacrosse experience.

Continuing the Lacrosse Journey After Camp

The end of summer camp doesn’t have to mean the end of a child’s lacrosse journey. Many opportunities exist for young players to continue developing their skills and passion for the sport:

• Joining local youth lacrosse leagues or clubs
• Participating in off-season clinics or workshops
• Practicing with friends or siblings in the backyard
• Watching professional or collegiate lacrosse games for inspiration
• Setting personal goals for improvement and working towards them

Encouraging ongoing involvement in lacrosse can help solidify the skills and experiences gained during summer camp, setting the stage for continued growth and enjoyment of the sport.

The Future of Lacrosse in Massachusetts

As lacrosse continues to grow in popularity, the future of the sport in Massachusetts looks bright. Summer camps play a crucial role in this growth by introducing new players to the game and helping experienced players refine their skills. What trends can we expect to see in Massachusetts lacrosse?

• Increased participation at all levels, from youth to adult leagues
• More schools adding lacrosse to their athletic programs
• Enhanced training technologies and methods
• Greater diversity in the player base
• Potential for professional lacrosse teams in the state

As the sport evolves, lacrosse camps in Massachusetts will likely adapt to incorporate new training techniques, technologies, and gameplay strategies, ensuring that young players remain at the forefront of the sport’s development.

The Economic Impact of Lacrosse Camps

Lacrosse summer camps contribute not only to the sporting landscape but also to the local economy in Massachusetts. These camps often:

• Create seasonal employment opportunities for coaches and staff
• Attract out-of-state visitors, boosting tourism
• Increase sales for local sporting goods retailers
• Utilize and support local facilities and services

As the popularity of lacrosse grows, the economic benefits of these camps are likely to expand, potentially leading to increased investment in lacrosse-related infrastructure and programs throughout the state.

Embracing Innovation in Lacrosse Training

Massachusetts lacrosse camps are at the forefront of embracing innovative training methods to enhance player development. What cutting-edge approaches are being incorporated?

• Virtual reality simulations for strategic training
• Biomechanical analysis to improve technique
• Mental conditioning and sports psychology sessions
• Integration of cross-training elements from other sports
• Use of data analytics to track player progress

These innovative approaches not only improve player performance but also keep the camp experience fresh and exciting for returning participants.

The Role of Technology in Modern Lacrosse Camps

Technology plays an increasingly important role in lacrosse training and camp operations. Some ways technology is being utilized include:

• Video analysis software for instant feedback
• Wearable devices to monitor physical exertion and recovery
• Online platforms for skill tutorials and homework
• Social media integration for community building
• App-based scheduling and communication with parents

By leveraging technology, camps can provide a more comprehensive and personalized training experience for each participant.

Cultural Significance of Lacrosse in Native American Heritage

While focusing on the modern aspects of lacrosse, it’s crucial to acknowledge and respect the sport’s Native American origins. How do Massachusetts lacrosse camps incorporate this cultural heritage?

• Educational sessions on the history and significance of lacrosse in Native American cultures
• Inviting Native American speakers or players to share their perspectives
• Incorporating traditional games or stick-making demonstrations
• Promoting respect for the sport’s roots and its spiritual significance

By honoring the cultural heritage of lacrosse, camps can provide a more enriching experience that goes beyond just athletic training.

Promoting Inclusivity and Diversity in Lacrosse

Massachusetts lacrosse camps are increasingly focusing on making the sport more inclusive and diverse. Efforts in this direction include:

• Offering scholarships or financial aid to increase accessibility
• Actively recruiting participants from underrepresented communities
• Providing adaptive programs for players with disabilities
• Promoting gender equality in coaching and leadership roles
• Celebrating cultural diversity within the lacrosse community

By broadening participation, these camps are helping to ensure that lacrosse remains a sport for everyone, regardless of background or ability.

Environmental Stewardship in Lacrosse Camps

As outdoor activities, lacrosse camps have a unique opportunity to promote environmental awareness and stewardship. How are camps in Massachusetts incorporating eco-friendly practices?

• Implementing recycling and waste reduction programs
• Using environmentally friendly cleaning products and materials
• Educating campers about local ecosystems and conservation
• Organizing camp clean-up activities in surrounding areas
• Partnering with environmental organizations for special programs

These initiatives not only benefit the environment but also instill important values of responsibility and respect for nature in young athletes.

Balancing Competitive Spirit with Sportsmanship

While competition is an integral part of sports, Massachusetts lacrosse camps strive to balance competitive drive with good sportsmanship. This balance is achieved through:

• Emphasizing personal growth over winning at all costs
• Teaching conflict resolution and respectful communication
• Recognizing and rewarding acts of fair play and kindness
• Encouraging players to support and learn from each other
• Modeling positive behavior from coaches and staff

By fostering a culture of respect and fair play, these camps help young athletes develop not just as players, but as individuals with strong moral character.

Team NorCal Summer Beginner Day Camps

Team Norcal Beginner Day Camps

Beginner Camps 2023

Come check out the “fastest game on two feet”!  Sports Illustrated recently called Lacrosse the “fastest growing sport in the U.S.” Our lacrosse camps offer the beginner a great chance to make friends and the opportunity to have fun learning a fantastic new sport!  Did you know that Lacrosse was the most popular team sport at Mountain View and Palo Alto High School this year? NorCal Lacrosse provides excellent coaching and training, from staff who have been successful in High School, College, and beyond. Beginners will learn the fundamentals of lacrosse, in a very positive environment, and they will have fun doing it!!

Beginner Camps are for Boys and Girls age 6-17  

Half Day (9AM-Noon $289) or Full Day (9AM-3PM $309) options

Requires NO previous experience in lacrosse   

Loaner Equipment Provided at No Charge – Some of the drills during the course of the week will require equipment.   Sticks and full loaner equipment (helmet, pads, gloves) available to borrow at no extra cost.

Each summer our camps set new records for attendance. We are by far the biggest and most vibrant Lacrosse Day Camp in the San Francisco Bay Area.  This, our 12th year, should be no different.  Tired of camps with big promises and no individual instruction?  The coaches from Team NorCal will help you make this a summer to remember. Over half of the High School players named All American and Academic All American by US Lacrosse in Northern California in 2013 through 2021 came from the Team NorCal program.  We will have several well known college players and coaches participating in this years camps. 

Team NorCal is the oldest and largest elite lacrosse development program in the San Francisco Bay Area.  Over 400 boys and girls across 16 teams at Youth. Middle School and High School levels will represent Northern California in local, regional and national lacrosse tournaments in 2023.

HALF DAY AND FULL DAY OPTIONS

Beginner campers have two options – Half day (9AM till Noon each day) or Full Day (9AM-3PM).  About 80% of our beginner campers attend full day, and frankly find that is both fun and helps them more quickly learn the sport.   As the week progresses, we find in the afternoon we can take many of the Beginner players and move them up into some of the more junior intermediate groups, and get them actually really involved in game-like situations, and not merely practicing fundamentals.   We encourage you to consider this for your Beginner player, if your time schedule permits.   

Separate Boys and Girls Tracks 

Separate fields, instructors, and drills.  The Girls game is different than the Boys game, and so are the Camps!  Girls are led by Colleen Niklaus, Director of Girl’s Programs, Team NorCal and former St Ignatius Coach Varsity Head Coach, where she led them to 4 #1 rankings in the State.  Boys are led by Brent Tovrea and Taylor Sessions.   

FREE LOANER EQUIPMENT

Especially for boys, equipment can be expensive.  We have a large inventory of almost new equipment that we can let your child borrow for the camp week at no extra charge.  Sticks, helmets, goggles, gloves,  arm pads, shoulder pads, and mouthpieces.  If you have your own equipment, by all means, please bring it, but we have you covered so you do not need to make a big investment to try out the sport.

Small and Large Beginners

We often get asked – how young to too young for this beginner camp?  how old is too old to start the sport?  The short answer is we make this camp work for beginners of all ages and sizes.  We have kids as young as 6, and as old as 16.  The youngest kids should probably be more athletic than their peers generally, but otherwise they often are the heroes of the camp.  Probably half of our campers each week are in the Beginner track, so we have the ability to subsegment by age and size.  On the Large side: we regularly have middle school and even 9th graders attend the camp because they want to play the sport in high school.  And this is a perfect setting to do so.  We bunch the bigger Beginners together and move them up the ladder as quickly as possible.  

MORE THAN JUST LACROSSE

6 hours is a long day just for a lacrosse beginner.  That is why we have other activties interspersed into the day – that are group oriented and athletic, and keep everyone happy and engaged.  Among the activities include capture the flag, lacrosse baseball,  lacrossse dodgeball (with nerf balls), and water balloon toss – especially appreciated on hot days.  

SPECIAL PROMOTION – REGISTER FOR TWO WEEKS OF BEGINNER CAMP AND GET A FREE STICK!

FOR NEW BEGINNER CAMPERS ONLY.  REGISTER FOR TWO WEEKS IN SUMMER 2023, AND YOU WILL GET A NEW STICK (BOYS OR GIRLS) FOR YOU TO KEEP!  More Details

LOCATIONS AND DATES SUMMER 2023

PALO ALTO: Stanford/Palo Alto Community Playing Fields, Palo Alto – June 12-15 , June 19-22, June 26-29, July 10-13, July 18-21,  July 31 – August 3

PENINSULA: Hillsdale HS, San Mateo  June 20-23,  July 18-21

CAMP PRICES

BEGINNER – Half Day ($289), Full Day ($309)

INTERMEDIATE/ADVANCED – Full Day ($329)

Full Day is 9AM to 3PM.   Half Day (beginner only) is 9AM to 12PM.

Girls Camp Director, Colleen Niklaus

Read Testimonials on ActivityHero

Camps | Swampscott-Nahant Youth Lacrosse

SNYL will periodically post information about lacrosse camps for all levels of lacrosse. We don’t endorse any particular camp over another but vet them regarding the level and quality of instruction. Lacrosse-focused camps are an excellent way for kids to improve their skills and keep a lacrosse stick in their hands throughout the year. Plus they are fun!

Complementary to our list, Mass Youth Lax (MYL) compiles a list of camps and clinics [here]

If you hear about a camp or clinic, please do not hesitate to let us know. We are happy to check it out, and very well may end up posting it for our lacrosse community.

Summer is the most popular time for camps, so stay tuned in the Spring for more information.

If you have specific questions please click on the following link: Clinic and Camps information request

LACROSSE CAMP OPPORTUNITES

Hosted by Level Up Lacrosse

Summer Boys and Girls Youth Lacrosse Clinics

Level Up Lacrosse from Danvers Indoor Sports presents Youth Lacrosse Clinics! Boys Clinics
Work on your lacrosse skills this summer with Level Up Lacrosse Coaches who emphasize the basics of passing, catching, shooting, dodging, and more!

https://danversindoorsports. com/boys-sports/boys-lacrosse
https://danversindoorsports.com/girls-sports/girls-lacrosse

Hosted by Powell Lacrosse

Age Groups:

• Beginner Camp: Rising Kindergarten – 2nd Grade
• Day Camp: Rising 3rd – Rising 10th Grade

Registration:

• Info: https://powelllacrosse.com/events/
• Swampscott Day Camp: https://www.powelllacrosse.com/pages/day-camps?event-id=7737
• Registration: https://summitlacrosseventures.sportngin.com/register/form/028129981
• Pricing:
  • $100 Beginner Camp (access more information within the registration link above you’ll see it become available as you select MA > Swampscott.  details below)
  • $275 Day Camp – Before midnight March 15th, 2023
    • (Day camp price is $300 after March 15th 2023)

Lacrosse Day Camps with Powell Lacrosse is THE place to elevate your skills, empower personal growth and ignite your passions. Spend three consecutive days progressing through the Powell HOF 22 step training program and build the foundation for a lifetime of lacrosse.

Steps to Register for Camp (especially the not-so-obvious Beginner Camp):

1. go to https://summitlacrosseventures.sportngin.com/register/form/028129981
2. Create an account or Login
3. Create or Select a Person to register and press Continue
4. Select MA > Swampscott > Beginner Camp or Full Day Camp

Details on the Camp here: https://www.winnipesaukeelacrossecamp.com/

Hosted by 3d Lacrosse Club

3d New England has two local series of camps that have sessions throughout the Summer. Below you will find all details about their local camps and the registration pages.

Be the Best: 

The Be the Best clinics are a staple of their Summer Programming, inviting boys and girls of all youth ages to come and learn lacrosse fundamentals while also being subjected to 3d Methodology. These programs were the perfect day clinic in the summer for ANY lacrosse player trying to get better

Session 1: June 6th-8th, 3-7pm, Babson College

Session 2: July 11th-13th, 330pm-6pm, Westwood HS

Session 3: August 1st-3rd, 9am-1pm, Newton South HS

https://register.newengland.3dlacrosse.com/site/register/register.aspx?EventID=4279 

Gordon College Lacrosse Clinic: 

The Gordon Lacrosse Clinics continue to be the most popular summer day clinic for 3d! The combination of individual training, small-sided games, field games, and pool time make the Gordon Clinic the ideal summer lacrosse day camp for everyone!

Session 1: Tuesday June 20th- Thursday June 22nd, 9am-3pm

Session 2: Tuesday July 11th-Thursday July 13th, 9am-3pm

Session 3: TBD

https://register.newengland.3dlacrosse.com/site/register/register.aspx?EventID=4292

Hosted by Laxachusetts Lacrosse Club

LEGACY LACROSSE GIRLS YOUTH SUMMER Camp / Clinics

The Legacy Lacrosse Summer Clinics are for new and current lacrosse players that want to strengthen their current skills and learn new aspects of the game of lacrosse!  Beginners to elite players can expect to be challenged to their fullest potential.  These clinics will focus on individual stick work skills, featuring their highly successful “Laxsanity” program.  Players will learn team concepts, attack/defensive strategies, small sided games with fun competitions!  All Clinics are run by Laxachusetts Girls Staff as well as talented current college players !  All first grade through rising eighth grade players welcome and all skills/drills split by age and ability.

Goalie training provided at all clinics!

All Clinics cost $225.00

Sample Schedule:
9:00-10:00: Fun Warm-Up Games and Stick work Stations
10:00-11:00: Small Sided Lax IQ Stations
11:00-11:30: Big Idea of the Day (Man up/Man Down, Riding, Clearing, Team Offense, Team Defense)
11:30-12:00: Break/Snack/FUN!
12:00-1:00: Mini Scrimmages

Legacy Cohasset: July 11th-13th

Legacy Southborough: July 18th-20th

Legacy Dexter Southfield: July 18th-20th

More information and to Register

Hosted by Nike

NIKE GIRLS LACROSSE CAMP AT THE WILLISTON NORTHAMPTON SCHOOL

At the Nike Girls Lacrosse Camp at The Williston Northampton School, our goal is to bring out the very best in every lacrosse player we coach. Get ready for a week of focused, intensive training sessions lead by long time Nike Camp Director Stacey Freda and her coaching staff.

The Williston Northampton School offers a beautiful campus, with top-notch facilities in the Pioneer Valley, that is a perfect location for our Nike summer lacrosse camp. The school is located just five miles from downtown Northampton, and only two hours west of Boston in Massachusetts.

Click Here

NIKE GIRLS LACROSSE CAMP LEXINGTON, MA

Come join long time Nike Camp Director, Stacey Freda, this summer 2023 for a great week of lacrosse camp! Located 11 miles northwest of Boston and east of Concord, the Lincoln Park Athletic Complex in Lexington is an ideal location for a Nike Lacrosse Camp.

At the Nike Lacrosse Camp in Lexington, our goal is to help campers reach a new level of play by providing a positive training environment where you can build confidence and a passion for the game.

Click Here

NIKE GIRLS LACROSSE CAMP AT CURRY COLLEGE

USSC is excited to be back at Curry College in summer 2023 and offer a Nike Lacrosse Camp in Boston. Curry’s main campus in Milton is 131-acre near the ​Blue Hills Reservation. Conveniently located only seven miles from downtown Boston, the campus offers an ideal camp location to improve your lacrosse skills this summer with great coaches, excellent weather and top notch facilities!

With a perfect small college setting, campers will have the opportunity to personally work with the Curry College coaches and experienced staff members. This camp location is ideal for all regional players in the New England area and beyond.

Click Here

Hosted by Amonte Sports

Kelly Amonte Hiller, one of the top lacrosse players in the world, developed what has become the premiere teaching camp for lacrosse players of all ages. Kelly’s success as a player and coach is achieved through her commitment, hard work, innovation, and positive approach to the sport of lacrosse. Kelly developed Amonte Sports to provide young people with an opportunity to learn these principles from coaches/players who they respect and admire. As a college coach she is known for her ability to develop good athletes into great lacrosse players through the teaching of skills/basics with her positive philosophy.

Click here for more info and to register

Hosted by Brandeis University – Waltham, MA

Location: Brandeis University – Waltham, MA
Date: July 17-19, 2023
Hours: 8:00 a.m.- 2:00 p.m.
Cost: $425

Each Camper Receives:

• 18 hours of expert instruction by a staff exclusively comprised of current and former college and national team lacrosse players and coaches over the course of 3 days
• Dry fit camp t-shirt
• Reversible practice jersey
• Autographed photo of Kristen Kjellman
• Lunches provided by local restaurants (served in an indoor air conditioned facility) 
• Opportunities to win prizes during daily competitions

Equipment: Each camper must supply their own lacrosse stick and protective equipment (goggles, mouthpiece and cleats).

Ages: 7-18

Age Groups: Age groups are based on the grade the camper will enter the following school year.

The age groups are:

• 4th grade and under
• 5th-6th graders
• 7th-8th graders
• 9th-12th graders

Click here for More info and to Register

Hosted by Midnight Rider Lacrosse

Designed to educate players on the benefits of playing box lacrosse. Our goal is to inspire the next generation of American box players. You can expect expert coaching, an elite curriculum, and a best-in-class box experience.

Dates: July 25 & 26 (3rd – 6th Grade) | July 27 & 28 (7th – 11th Grade)

Location: Hampstead, New Hampshire

Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm

The Midnight Rider Box Camp-Combine is perfect for the experienced field player ready to transition into the rink; or someone with prior box experience looking to take their game to the next level.