How has Ponte Vedra’s lacrosse program evolved into a powerhouse. What opportunities are available for youth players in the area. Why are Ponte Vedra and Bartram Trail’s girls teams considered top contenders.
The Rise of Ponte Vedra Lacrosse: A Community Success Story
Ponte Vedra’s lacrosse program has rapidly grown into one of the most successful in Florida, encompassing both youth and high school levels. The program’s emphasis on skill development, community involvement, and competitive opportunities has created a pipeline of talent that consistently produces championship-caliber teams.
Key Components of Ponte Vedra’s Lacrosse Success
- Strong youth development programs
- Experienced coaching staff
- Community support and involvement
- Competitive travel teams
- State-of-the-art facilities
These elements have combined to create a lacrosse culture that fosters growth, teamwork, and excellence on and off the field.
Jaws Boys Travel Lacrosse: Nurturing Young Talent
The Ponte Vedra Jaws travel program serves as the foundation for developing young lacrosse players in the area. Offering teams for ages 8U through high school, Jaws provides a structured environment for athletes to hone their skills and compete at high levels.
Jaws Program Details
- Fall/Winter season: October-January
- Summer season: May-June
- Age groups: 8U, 10U, 12U, 14U, and High School
- Focus on individual skill development and team play
- Community-based approach
Do Jaws teams participate in tournaments? Yes, Jaws teams compete in various tournaments throughout their seasons, providing valuable experience and exposure for players.
Celebrating Success: Recent Championship Victories
Ponte Vedra’s lacrosse programs have achieved numerous championship titles across different age groups and seasons. These victories demonstrate the program’s commitment to excellence and the high level of talent being developed in the area.
Notable Recent Championships
- High School B – Orlando Summer Faceoff Champions
- 12B (2030’s) – Orlando Summer Faceoff Champions
- 12A (2029’s) – Sunshine State Champions
- 8A – Sunshine State Champions
- 12U – Florida Travel Lacrosse League Champions
- 14U – Veterans Day Invitational Champions
These accomplishments highlight the depth and quality of Ponte Vedra’s lacrosse program across multiple age groups.
Girls Lacrosse: Ponte Vedra and Bartram Trail Leading the Way
The success of Ponte Vedra’s lacrosse program extends beyond just the boys’ teams. Both Ponte Vedra and nearby Bartram Trail have established themselves as powerhouses in girls’ lacrosse, consistently competing for state championships.
Current State Championship Contenders
- Ponte Vedra (14-4) – Class 1A state semifinals
- Bartram Trail (17-4) – Class 2A state semifinals
What makes these teams so successful? Both programs benefit from strong youth development, experienced coaching, and a culture of excellence that permeates their respective communities.
Training and Practice Facilities: The Foundation for Success
High-quality training facilities play a crucial role in the development of lacrosse players. Ponte Vedra’s program utilizes top-notch venues to ensure players have the best possible environment for growth and improvement.
Primary Practice Locations
- Landrum Middle School
- Ponte Vedra High School
These facilities provide ample space for drills, scrimmages, and conditioning, allowing coaches to implement comprehensive training programs for players at all levels.
Equipment and Gear: Outfitting Champions
Proper equipment is essential for player safety and performance. Ponte Vedra’s lacrosse program ensures that all players have access to high-quality gear through partnerships with reputable suppliers.
Official Ponte Vedra Lacrosse Gear
- Jaws Boys Bags – Available for purchase through laxgear.com
- Jaws Online Store – Offering a variety of branded apparel and accessories
- Jaws Boys Helmets – Coordinated through program administrators
How can players and fans purchase official Ponte Vedra lacrosse gear? The program provides easy access to equipment and apparel through its online store and designated suppliers, ensuring a cohesive and professional look for all teams.
The Impact of Lacrosse on the Community
The growth of lacrosse in Ponte Vedra and the surrounding areas has had a significant positive impact on the community. The sport has provided opportunities for youth development, fostered a sense of camaraderie, and brought recognition to the region.
Community Benefits of a Strong Lacrosse Program
- Increased youth participation in athletics
- Development of teamwork and leadership skills
- Positive exposure for the area through tournament success
- Opportunities for college scholarships
- Strengthened community bonds through shared support of local teams
Has the success of the lacrosse program influenced other sports in the area? While lacrosse has seen tremendous growth, it has also helped raise the bar for athletic excellence across all sports in the Ponte Vedra community.
Looking to the Future: Continued Growth and Success
As Ponte Vedra’s lacrosse program continues to thrive, the future looks bright for both current and aspiring players. The established infrastructure, combined with ongoing community support, positions the program for sustained success and expansion.
Goals for Future Development
- Expand youth participation at younger age groups
- Increase the number of players receiving college scholarships
- Continue to compete for state championships across all levels
- Foster partnerships with local businesses and organizations
- Develop more comprehensive training programs and clinics
What steps is the program taking to achieve these goals? Ponte Vedra lacrosse continues to invest in coaching development, facility improvements, and community outreach to ensure long-term growth and success.
The Role of Coaching in Ponte Vedra’s Lacrosse Success
Behind every successful sports program are dedicated and knowledgeable coaches. Ponte Vedra’s lacrosse program benefits from a team of experienced coaches who are committed to developing both the skills and character of their players.
Notable Ponte Vedra Lacrosse Coaches
- Chris Polanski – 14U Coach
- Matt Keeler – 12U (2029) Coach
- Adam Kilby – 12U (2030) Coach
- Mike Marrapese – 8U Coach
- Dan Toole – Ponte Vedra High School Girls Coach
How do these coaches contribute to the program’s success? Each coach brings a unique set of skills and experiences, focusing on age-appropriate development strategies and fostering a love for the game.
Parental Involvement: A Key to Ponte Vedra’s Lacrosse Success
The support and involvement of parents play a crucial role in the success of Ponte Vedra’s lacrosse program. From volunteering at events to providing transportation and emotional support, parents are an integral part of the lacrosse community.
Ways Parents Contribute to the Program
- Volunteer coaching and team management
- Organizing fundraising events
- Providing transportation to games and tournaments
- Supporting the program through equipment and uniform purchases
- Cheering on teams at home and away games
How does parental involvement impact player development? Active parental support creates a positive environment that encourages player growth, both on and off the field.
The Economic Impact of Lacrosse in Ponte Vedra
The growth of lacrosse in Ponte Vedra has not only benefited the athletic community but has also had a positive economic impact on the area. Tournaments, camps, and regular season games bring visitors to the region, boosting local businesses.
Economic Benefits of a Strong Lacrosse Program
- Increased tourism during tournament weekends
- Revenue for local hotels, restaurants, and shops
- Job creation through coaching and program administration
- Sponsorship opportunities for local businesses
- Potential for hosting larger regional or national events
Has the success of the lacrosse program attracted new businesses to the area? While it’s difficult to attribute direct causation, the overall growth and positive reputation of Ponte Vedra’s athletic programs, including lacrosse, have contributed to the area’s attractiveness for new businesses and residents.
Ponte Vedra Lacrosse: Fostering Academic Excellence
While athletic success is a primary focus, Ponte Vedra’s lacrosse program also emphasizes the importance of academic achievement. The program works to develop well-rounded student-athletes who excel both on the field and in the classroom.
Academic Support for Lacrosse Players
- Study hall sessions for team members
- Tutoring programs for struggling students
- Recognition of academic achievements
- Guidance on NCAA eligibility requirements
- Assistance with college application processes
How does the program balance academic and athletic commitments? Coaches and administrators work closely with players and their families to ensure that academic responsibilities are prioritized alongside athletic pursuits.
The Role of Technology in Ponte Vedra’s Lacrosse Program
As with many modern sports programs, technology plays an increasingly important role in Ponte Vedra’s lacrosse development. From video analysis to communication tools, technological advancements are helping players and coaches improve performance and streamline operations.
Technology Applications in Ponte Vedra Lacrosse
- Video analysis software for game and practice footage
- Online scheduling and team management platforms
- Social media channels for program updates and highlights
- Virtual coaching sessions and webinars
- GPS tracking for player performance metrics
How has technology improved player development? Advanced analysis tools and communication platforms have allowed coaches to provide more targeted instruction and feedback, accelerating player growth and team cohesion.
Ponte Vedra Lacrosse: Building Character and Leadership
Beyond developing athletic skills, Ponte Vedra’s lacrosse program places a strong emphasis on character development and leadership. These qualities not only contribute to on-field success but also prepare players for future challenges in all aspects of life.
Character-Building Initiatives
- Team-building exercises and retreats
- Community service projects
- Leadership workshops for captains and upperclassmen
- Mentorship programs pairing older and younger players
- Recognition of sportsmanship and fair play
How do these initiatives impact players beyond their lacrosse careers? The focus on character and leadership helps players develop valuable life skills that serve them well in their academic, professional, and personal lives long after their playing days are over.
The Future of Lacrosse in Ponte Vedra: Expansion and Innovation
As Ponte Vedra’s lacrosse program continues to grow and evolve, there are exciting possibilities on the horizon. From expanding youth programs to exploring new competitive opportunities, the future of lacrosse in the area looks bright.
Potential Areas for Future Growth
- Establishment of a dedicated lacrosse complex
- Expansion of girls’ youth programs
- Creation of adult recreational leagues
- Hosting national-level tournaments and showcases
- Development of specialized training programs for goalies and face-off specialists
What steps is the program taking to ensure continued growth and success? Program leaders are actively seeking feedback from players, parents, and coaches to identify areas for improvement and expansion, while also studying successful models from other lacrosse hotbeds around the country.
Ponte Vedra Lacrosse: A Model for Other Communities
The success of Ponte Vedra’s lacrosse program has not gone unnoticed, with other communities looking to replicate its model of youth development and competitive excellence. The program’s emphasis on community involvement, skill development, and character building provides a blueprint for growing the sport in new areas.
Key Lessons from Ponte Vedra’s Lacrosse Success
- Importance of a strong youth development pipeline
- Value of community support and involvement
- Benefits of a holistic approach to player development
- Significance of quality coaching and facilities
- Impact of fostering a positive team culture
How can other communities learn from Ponte Vedra’s success? By studying the program’s structure, community engagement strategies, and focus on player development, other areas can adapt these principles to grow their own lacrosse programs.
Jaws Boys Travel Lacrosse
Ponte Vedra Jaws is our travel program for Boys 8U, 10U, 12U, 14U and High School aged players. The Jaws teams compete in both the Fall (October-January) and Summer (May and June).
Our focus is on developing the skill levels of each player while playing travel ball as a community based program.
For questions, email: [email protected]
Jaws Fall/Winter Schedule
Tryouts for the Fall/Winter season will be held on August 27th at Landrum MS from 11:00am to 12:30pm.
Practice for the 2023 Fall/Witer Jaws Season will begin October 10th and run through December 14th.
HIGH SCHOOL : Tuesdays and Thursdays at Landrum MS- 4:30-6:00pm
14U (Coach Chris Polanski): Tuesdays and Thursdays at Landrum MS – 4:30-6:00pm
12U (2029 Coach Matt Keeler and 2030 Coach Adam Kilby): Tuesdays and Thursdays at Landrum MS – 6:00-7:30pm
10U (Coach TBD): Tuesdays and Thursdays at Landrum MS – 6:00-7:30pm
8U (Coach Mike Marrapese): Tuesdays and Thursdays at Landrum MS- 5:30-7:00pm
JAWS HIGH SCHOOL FALL/WINTER TOURNAMENTS
TBD
JAWS YOUTH (8U, 10U, 12U, 14U) FALL/WINTER TOURNAMENTS
TBD
Summer 2023 Champions
High School B Champions
Congratulations to our HSB Orlando Summer Faceoff Champions!
12B (2030’s) Champions
Congratulations to our 2030’s – 12B Orlando Summer Faceoff Champions!
12A (2029’s) Champions
Congratulations to our 2029’s – 12A Sunshine State Champions!
8A Champions
Congratulations to our 8U Sunshine State Champions!
12A (2029’s) Champions
Congratulations to our 2029’s – 12A Orlando Summer Faceoff Champions!
8U Champions
Congratulations to our 8UA Orlando Summer Faceoff Champions!
12B (2030’s) Champions
Congratulation to our 2030’s – 12B Sunshine State Champions!
Fall 2022 Champions
FTLL 12U Champions
Congratulations to our 12U Florida Travel Lacrosse League Champions!
12UA Champions
Congratulations to our 12uA Autumn Classic Champions
8U Champions
Congratulations to our 8U Orlando Open Champions
14U Champions
Congratulations to our 14U Veterans Day Invitational Champions
12A Champions
Congratulations to our 12A Gold Coast Shootout Champions
12B Champions
Congratulations to our 12B Gold Coast Shootout Champions
Summer 2022 Champions
10uA Champions
Congratulations to our 10uA Sunshine State Games Champions!
12UB Champions
Congratulations to our 12UB Summer Face Off Champions!
10uA Champions
Congratulations to our 10uA Tampa Jam Tournament Champions!
2030 Champions
Congratulations to our 2030 boys for winning the 2029/2030 Carolina’s Open Championship!
8U Champions
Congratulations to our 8U Sunshine State Games Champions!
2025 Champions
Congratulations to our 2025 Summer Face Off Champions!
12uA Champions
Congratulations to our 12uA Father’s Day Invitational Champions!
Jaws Boys Bags
To purchase a Jaws Bag please visit: https://laxgear. com/products/ponte-vedra
When promted for a passcode enter: Lax
JAWS Online Store
CLICK HERE to access the JAWS Store.
JAWS BOYS HELMETS
To order a new helmet please contact Matt Garrow at [email protected]
JAWS Youtube Videos
Success of Bartram Trail, Ponte Vedra show depth of girls lacrosse in the area
Sports
Justin Barney, Sports editor
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Tags: High School, V4RSITY, Sports4JAX
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Justin Barney, Sports editor
Tags: High School, V4RSITY, Sports4JAX
The Bartram Trail girls lacrosse team practices on Wednesday in preparation for the Class 2A state semifinals. (Justin Barney, News4JAX)
ST. JOHNS, Fla. – Two of the area’s top girls lacrosse teams are ready for their shot at state.
Bartram Trail (17-4) will face Tampa Plant (18-3) at 2:30 p.m. on Friday afternoon in the Class 2A state semifinals in Naples. Five hours later at 7:30, Ponte Vedra (14-4) collides with Lake Highland Prep (19-3) in the Class 1A semi. That the area has teams in both classifications still alive and chasing championships is a testament to just how much the sport has grown in the area.
Ponte Vedra beat another local program, Super 6 No. 1 Episcopal, in the regional final to punch its ticket to the state semifinals.
“I think it speaks volumes of the talent that we have in the north part of the state,” said Sharks coach Dan Toole. “And again, I’m excited for Bartram. I wish them well. And I hope, as I told [Bartram coach] Meg [Jackowiak] in a text message, I hope we bring the titles back up north.”
The area has grown considerably in being able to compete with the private schools in the south. Last year, the Bears knocked off a dynasty, Vero Beach, in an 8-7 classic for only the second girls lacrosse championship in area history.
Even with a major playmaker returning in Ryann Frechette, Bartram’s road back wasn’t easy.
“We had our ups and downs and some refocus points but it’s been really exciting. It’s been awesome to watch the girls grow this year,” Jackowiak said. “You know, even though we are the returning state champs and you have a target on our back, we had a lot of different girls step up this year after losing eight seniors.
So, to be able to get back here. It’s just really exciting.”
Both teams can thank tough schedules and some resilience in getting here. Bartram endured a unusual three-game losing streak this season, including a 12-9 loss to Episcopal. Jackowiak said that lull helped refuel Bartram for its stretch run.
The Sharks and the Bears are the only two local programs to ever play for a championship. Ponte Vedra has finished as state runner-up twice (2014-15. The Bears lost to Vero Beach in 2013 and beat them in 2016 before returning last year to do it again. The Sharks had their pockets of challenges, although lost just once to a local team (Bartram).
“I think everyone just did a really good job stepping up to the role that we needed them to be,” said Bartram senior Peyton Morris. “And I think everyone realized that they needed to step up and we’ve been doing really well working together.”
Players from both teams say the local competition and being able to compete during difficult regular season schedules has proven that teams in the area can continue to flourish.
