What are the youth lacrosse stick length rules. How do equipment regulations vary by age group. What safety measures are implemented in youth lacrosse. How do game formats differ between Classic and Select games.
Youth Lacrosse Stick Length Regulations: Age-Specific Guidelines
Youth lacrosse stick length rules are an essential aspect of the game, ensuring fair play and safety for young athletes. These regulations vary depending on the age group and playing level. Let’s explore the specific guidelines for different age categories:
8U and 10U Age Groups
For the youngest players in the 8U and 10U age groups, stick length regulations are designed to promote skill development and maneuverability:
- Short stick: 37-42 inches
- Long stick: Not permitted at this age level
Why are shorter sticks mandated for younger players? Shorter sticks allow for better ball control and stick handling skills development, which are crucial at this stage of learning the game.
12U Age Group
As players progress to the 12U age group, they are introduced to longer stick options:
- Short stick: 40-42 inches
- Long stick: 52-72 inches (limited to 4 players on the field at a time)
The introduction of long sticks at this age allows players to begin learning defensive techniques specific to pole positions.
14U and High School Age Groups
For older youth players in the 14U category and high school levels, stick length regulations closely mirror those of adult play:
- Short stick: 40-42 inches
- Long stick: 52-72 inches
- Goalie stick: 40-72 inches
These regulations allow for a smooth transition into more advanced levels of play, preparing athletes for potential college and professional careers.
Equipment Safety Standards in Youth Lacrosse
Safety is paramount in youth lacrosse, and equipment regulations play a crucial role in protecting young athletes. The Mass Youth Lacrosse (MYL) organization has implemented several key safety measures:
- All helmets and balls must be NOCSAE approved and stamped
- A protective cup or pelvic protector is required for all players (adopted in 2022)
- Proper mouth guards are mandatory
- Gloves, shoulder pads, and arm pads must meet specific safety standards
How do these safety measures benefit young players? By enforcing strict equipment standards, the risk of injury is significantly reduced, allowing players to focus on skill development and enjoyment of the game.
Game Format Differences: Classic vs. Select Youth Lacrosse
Youth lacrosse in Massachusetts is divided into two main categories: Classic and Select games. Understanding the differences in game format is crucial for players, coaches, and parents:
Classic Games
- Four 15-minute running time quarters (adopted in 2023)
- 2-minute breaks between quarters
- 5-minute halftime break
- Two timeouts per half per team
Select Games
- Four 10-minute start/stop quarters
- 2-minute breaks between quarters
- 5-minute halftime break
- Two timeouts per half per team
What is the rationale behind these different game formats? Classic games, with their running time quarters, are designed to keep games moving and fit within tighter scheduling constraints. Select games, featuring start/stop quarters, more closely mimic higher levels of play and allow for more strategic use of time management.
Penalty Administration and Player Conduct in Youth Lacrosse
Maintaining fair play and sportsmanship is a key focus in youth lacrosse. The MYL has established clear guidelines for penalties and player conduct:
- A player who accumulates 3 personal fouls or 5 minutes in personal foul penalty time is disqualified from the game
- Two unsportsmanlike conduct fouls result in an automatic ejection
- Penalty administration is no longer releasable; all fouls must be served for their full penalty time (USA Lacrosse new rule in 2023)
- Targeting body checks result in a 3-minute non-releasable penalty and ejection from the game
How do these rules promote player safety and fair play? By implementing strict consequences for dangerous or unsportsmanlike behavior, the league encourages clean play and respect for opponents, officials, and the game itself.
Stick Checking Techniques and Regulations in Youth Lacrosse
Proper stick checking is an essential skill in lacrosse, but it must be executed safely, especially in youth play. The MYL has implemented specific rules regarding stick checks:
- One-handed stick checks are considered a slash, regardless of contact
- “Crosse check holding” is legal when hands are no more than shoulder-width apart and equal pressure is applied
- Take-out checks are strictly prohibited at all age levels
Why are these regulations important for youth players? These rules encourage the development of proper defensive techniques while minimizing the risk of injury from overly aggressive or uncontrolled stick checks.
Overtime and Game Clock Management in Youth Lacrosse
Understanding overtime rules and game clock management is crucial for coaches and players in youth lacrosse:
- Overtime can be played upon unanimous agreement of both coaches and official(s)
- Overtime consists of one 4-minute “sudden death” period
- A goal counts as long as the ball has been released from the player’s stick prior to the expiration of the period
How does this overtime format impact game strategy? The sudden death format adds excitement and urgency to tied games, while the agreement requirement ensures that overtime is only played when all parties are willing and able to extend the game time.
Player Suspension and Ejection Policies in Youth Lacrosse
The MYL has established clear policies regarding player suspensions and ejections to maintain order and fairness in the league:
- Ejected Classic players are suspended for their next scheduled Classic game
- Ejected Select players are suspended for their next scheduled Classic game and their next scheduled Select game
- Suspensions at the end of the season carry forward into the Jamboree or the following season
To satisfy the suspension requirement, the player must:
- Attend the next game(s) in street clothes
- Stand with the team for the duration of the game
- Have their coach inform the lead official and opposing coaches of their presence and suspension status
Why are these suspension policies important? They serve as a deterrent for unsportsmanlike behavior and ensure that players face consequences for their actions, even if they occur late in the season.
Advancing Youth Lacrosse: Rule Changes and Adaptations
The sport of youth lacrosse is continually evolving, with rule changes and adaptations implemented to improve the game. Recent changes include:
- Clarification of the warding off rule for offensive players (adopted in 2019)
- Introduction of the targeting penalty for body checks (adopted in 2019)
- Non-releasable penalty administration (USA Lacrosse new rule in 2023)
How do these rule changes impact the game? They reflect a commitment to player safety, fair play, and the overall improvement of the sport at the youth level.
As youth lacrosse continues to grow in popularity, it’s crucial for players, coaches, parents, and officials to stay informed about the latest rules and regulations. By adhering to these guidelines, we can ensure a safe, fair, and enjoyable experience for all participants in the sport.
Remember, the specific rules and regulations may vary slightly between different youth lacrosse organizations and regions. Always consult your local league’s rulebook and stay updated on any changes or modifications to ensure compliance and promote the best possible playing environment for young athletes.
MYL Boys Rules | Mass Youth Lax
MYL Game Rules and Modifications for all Coaches and Officials
MYL Classic and Select games are played by USL Youth Rules with MYL modifications.
2023 USAL Youth Rule Book, click here.
MYL-specific rules are outlined in the Pregame Checklist.
The 2023 Pregame Checklist and Rules Review, click here.
Game Rules for ALL LEVELS
The same rules will govern all MYL Classic games as well as Mass Youth Lacrosse Select games, unless otherwise noted. [adopted in 2014]
Format Rules
Select Games will be played in four 10-minute Start/Stop quarters
Classic Games will be played in four 15-minute Running Time quarters (adopted 2023).
There will be 2-minute breaks between quarters and a 5-minute halftime break.
There will be two timeouts per half per team.
Overtime can be played upon unanimous agreement of both coaches and official(s) and will consist of one 4-minute “sudden death” period.
Spectators, in addition to players, coaches, and team personnel, can cause a time-serving unsportsmanslike penalty. [adopted in 2018]
A player who accumulates 3 personal fouls or 5 minutes in personal foul penalty time shall be disqualified from the game. A substitute for that player may enter the game when the disqualified player would have been permitted to re-enter had he not fouled out. [adopted in 2017]
A player who is ejected by an official (not the same as “fouling out”) will automatically serve a mandatory suspension.
For CLASSIC players – The ejected player will be suspended for their next scheduled calendar Classic game, regardless of when it is.
For SELECT players – The ejected player will be suspended for their next scheduled calendar Classic game, and their next scheduled Select game, regardless of when each of those games are.
The suspension requirement will have been satisfactorily met when:
The player attends the next game or games in street clothes and stands with the team for the duration of the game.
The coach informs the LEAD official and the opposing coaches the player is present and serving a suspension.
A Select player who was ejected during a Classic game will be suspended for both their next Select game and their next Classic game.
Suspensions at end of season ARE carried forward into the Jamboree or the following season.
A Select player who was ejected during a Select game will be suspended for both their next Classic game and their next Select game.
Two unsportsmanlike conduct fouls will result in an automatic ejection.
A goal shall be counted as long as the ball has been released from the player’s stick prior to the expiration of the period. [adopted in 2018]
A change to what constitutes a legal hold with the crosse, commonly known as “crosse check holding” by the defender. Under the new rule, holding with the portion of the crosse which is between your hands is now legal as long as your hands are no more than shoulder width apart and the pressure being applied by the defender is equal pressure to the pressure from the offensive player. [adopted in 2019]
A clarification was issued to the warding off rule for offensive players. It is illegal for the offensive player, with two hands on the crosse, to push their opponent with their crosse to create separation. However, it is legal for a player with the ball and two hands on their crosse to contact the crosse of their opponent using their arm.
[adopted in 2019]Penalty administration is no longer releasable. All fouls must be served for their full penalty time. Rationale: Increases the impact of penalties called ensuring commitment to safe and legal play. [USA Lacrosse new rule in 2023]
[adopted in 2019]
Safety & Equipment Rules
All helmets and balls must be NOCSAE approved and stamped.
A protective cup or pelvic protector is required for all players. [adopted in 2022]
- There are NO take-out checks at any age level. [adopted in 2014]
Example: Any hit with or without possession that has the intent (in the official’s opinion) of injuring or putting the opponent on the ground.
1st offense: Player will be called for an unsportsmanlike personal foul with an automatic non-releasable 2 or 3-minute time-serving penalty (official’s discretion).
2nd offense: Same player will be ejected from game.
The creation of a new penalty for body checks that “target” a player. Targeting body checks are those in which a player takes aims with the intent to make violent contact to a player in a defenseless position, or aims his check towards the head or neck area. Penalties which fit this description will result in a 3-minute non-releasable penalty and ejection from the game. [adopted in 2019]
One-handed stick checks are considered a slash, regardless of whether or not contact has been made. [adopted by 2013]
Contact of any degree made to an opponent’s head while actively making a stick check is a slashing penalty. [adopted in 2018]
The second and subsequent violations by a team when their defensive player enters the crease and assumes the position of a goalie shall result in a releasable unsportsmanlike penalty served by the offending player.
A stick with strings below 4 inches from the top of the crosse constitutes an illegal stick.
[adopted in 2016]NFHS Rule 4-3-3 (requiring contrasting color tape on the handle of the crosse of any player taking a faceoff) will NOT be enforced at any youth level.
Game jerseys or pinnies require numbers on both front and back, big enough to read, and in contrasting color to be seen by the officials, coaches, and players. [adopted in 2017]
Officials shall not enforce the NFHS eye-black rule, which only allows a single stripe of eye black. [adopted in 2017]
Goalies at all ages in MYL to have the ability to wear hockey pants and hockey shin guards (player guards not goalie pads).[adopted 2023]
[adopted in 2016]
MYL Competition Rules
If any team gains a 6+ goal lead, the trailing team can receive the ball at midfield without a faceoff. [adopted in 2014]
Faceoffs resume when the margin returns to five goals or less.
Exception: Mass Youth Lacrosse Select games always require faceoffs, regardless of score differential.
Variation: Trailing team may decline and participate in faceoffs if trailing by 6+ goals.
If any team gains a 12+ goal lead, the game clock goes to running time. [adopted in 2014]
Coaches for the leading team should make discrete adjustments (e.g. requiring 3 passes prior to shooting, encouraging off-hand passing and shooting, switching positions, etc.).
NEW Game Rule that apply to ALL Levels of MYL Play [adopted in 2022]
The Face Off
- Players SHALL STAND as they get into the position for the Face-Off and must remain standing until the whistle is blown.
- The crosses and gloves shall rest on the ground along the center line, parallel to each other up to, but not touching, the center line. All fingers and both hands shall be gloved and wrapped around the crosse. The crosse head and the gloved hands shall be touching the ground. The hand closer to the throat shall be in a PALM-UP position.
The hand closer to the throat shall be in a PALM-UP position.
Game Rules Specific to LEVEL 7/8 (using 14U rules)
Up to four “long poles” measuring up to 72” (including stick head & shaft) are permitted on the field at any one time for Level 7/8 games.
Substitutions are allowed on all sideline out-of-bounds (not endlines) for all Level 7/8 games. [adopted in 2014]
Level 7/8 teams will apply the 20-second count to clear the ball over the midfield line and will apply the 10-second count to get the ball into the offensive box.
The “over-and-back” rule will be in effect for Level 7/8 games.
The rule states, “Once the 10-second count has been satisfied, and an offensive team carries, passes, or propels the ball over the midline (except on a shot), it will result in an immediate turnover.”
The 2-minute stalling rule will apply to Level 7/8 games.
During the final two minutes of regulation play, stalling rules will be in effect.
The team that is ahead by 4 goals or less will be warned to “Get it in/Keep it in “once the ball in possession has been brought across midfield into its respective goal area.
When stalling rules are applied, they will remain in effect until a shot hits the goal pipe, goalie, or the goalie’s equipment in addition to the existing rules for stopping a stall warning. [adopted in 2018]
A stall warning can also be issued at any point in the game when an official feels an offensive team is not making an effort to make an attempt at scoring.
After a stoppage in play, the game can restart when the defensive player(s) are within 5 yards of the ball carrier. Officials must make an effort to restart play as soon as possible. The new restart rule allows for play to resume while a defensive player is within 5 yards of the player in possession.
In all cases the defensive player is required to allow the ball carrier a path to the goal and may not play the ball carrier until a minimum distance of 5 yards has been achieved. [adopted in2020]- All stick penalties are nonreleasable and 2 minutes in duration. [adopted in 2020]
- 1-handed stick checks are allowed when doen in control with proper contact. [new 2022 rule]
In all cases the defensive player is required to allow the ball carrier a path to the goal and may not play the ball carrier until a minimum distance of 5 yards has been achieved. [adopted in2020]
Game Rules Specific to LEVEL 5/6 (using 12U rules)
Up to four “tiger poles” measuring up to 60” (including stick head & shaft) are permitted on the field at any one time for Level 5/6 games. [adopted in 2014]
Substitutions are allowed on all sideline out-of-bounds (not endlines) for all Level 5/6 games. [adopted in 2014]
Level 5/6 teams will apply the 20-second count to clear the ball over the midfield line and will apply the 10-second count to get the ball into the offensive box.
The “over-and-back” rule will be in effect for Level 5/6 games.
The rule states, “Once the 10-second count has been satisfied, and an offensive team carries, passes, or propels the ball over the midline (except on a shot), it will result in an immediate turnover.”
The 2-minute stalling rule will apply to Level 5/6 teams. [adopted in 2019]
During the final two minutes of regulation play, stalling rules will be in effect.
The team that is ahead by 4 goals or less will be warned to “Get it in/Keep it in “once the ball in possession has been brought across midfield into its respective goal area.
When stalling rules are applied, they will remain in effect until a shot hits the goal pipe, goalie, or the goalie’s equipment in addition to the existing rules for stopping a stall warning. [adopted in 2018]
A stall warning can also be issued at any point in the game when an official feels an offensive team is not making an effort to make an attempt at scoring.
After a stoppage in play, the game can restart when the defensive player(s) are within 5 yards of the ball carrier. Officials must make an effort to restart play as soon as possible. The new restart rule allows for play to resume while a defensive player is within 5 yards of the player in possession. In all cases the defensive player is required to allow the ball carrier a path to the goal and may not play the ball carrier until a minimum distance of 5 yards has been achieved. [new 2020 rule]
- All stick penalties are nonreleasable and 2 minutes in duration. [new 2020 rule]
Game Rules Specific to LEVEL 3/4 (using 10U rules)
Level 3/4 games are played 8 v 8.
Level 3/4 games will be played on a modified lacrosse field with dimension at or near 90 yards by 40 yards. [adopted by 2013]
There will be no time-served penalties at Level 3/4.
[adopted in 2018]There are no fast breaks on penalties.
The official will explain reason for penalty to all players during stoppage, substitute offending players, and change possession of the ball.
Long poles are not permitted at Level 3/4 games. [adopted in 2017]
No body checks are allowed at Level 3/4.
Level 3/4 players are expected to play the ball and not the man when the ball is loose.
When defending a player in possession with the ball, the Level 3/4 defender should use no more than equal pressure to prevent progress.
One coach from each team is allowed (and encouraged) to be on the field at all times during Level 3/4 games as long as he/she remains within 5 yards of the sideline at all times. [adopted in 2016]
Substitutions are allowed on all sideline and endline out-of-bounds for all Level 3/4 games.
Level 3/4 shall require one completed pass be made in the offensive half of the field before a legal shot may be taken. [adopted in 2017]
This includes a faceoff man winning the draw; he must make one completed pass.
This also includes a player awarded possession at the faceoff X after a penalty, or a goal, or when using the fast-break rule.
In the event of a whistle, if the offensive team has made one completed pass, they are not required to complete an additional pass. [adopted in 2018]
If one pass has been completed in the offensive end and the defensive team gains possession of the ball but does not successfully clear the ball before losing possession, the original offensive team must complete one additional pass prior to shooting. [adopted in 2019]
Downward stick checks are allowed at Level 3/4 as long as the checking player does not raise his hands above shoulder height.
[adopted in 2019]There is no penalty for raking the ball at Level 3/4. [adopted in 2018]
In the event that a loose ball cannot be picked up due to three or more players being caught in a scrum or scramble in a Level 3/4 game, officials should wait approximately four seconds before stopping play and awarding the ball via the alternate possession rule. [adopted in 2018]
Unlike 10U USL Youth rules, there are wing players on the faceoff for Level 3/4. [adopted in 2013]
Unlike 10U USL Youth rules, partial-team substitutions and on-the-fly substitutions are allowed at Level 3/4. [adopted by 2013]
[adopted in 2018]
[adopted in 2019]
Game Rules Specific to LEVEL 1/2 (using 8U rules)
Level 1/2 games are played 7 v 7. [adopted in 2017]
Level 1/2 games will be played on a modified lacrosse field with dimensions at or near 60yards by 35 yards. [adopted by 2013]
Games will be played in two 25-minute Running Time halves.
Level 1/2 goals shall be 4’ x 4’ in size. [adopted in 2017]
There will be no time-served penalties at Level 1/2.
There are no fast breaks on penalties.
The official will explain reason for penalty to all players during stoppage, substitute offending players, and change possession of the ball.
Long poles are not permitted at Level 1/2 games.
Downward stick checks are allowed at Level 1/2 as long as the checking player does not raise his hands above shoulder height. [adopted in 2019]
No body checks are allowed at Level 1/2.
Level 1/2 players are expected to play the ball and not the man when the ball is loose.
When defending a player in possession with the ball, the Level 1/2 defender should use no more than equal pressure to prevent progress.
One coach from each team is allowed (and encouraged) to be on the field at all times during Level 1/2 games as long as he/she remains within 5 yards of the sideline at all times.
[adopted in 2016]Team with possession of ball must make 2 attempted passes in the offensive side of the field prior to shooting. In the event of a whistle, if the offensive team has made 2 attempted pass, they are not required to attempt another
Substitutions are allowed on all sideline and endline out-of-bounds for all Level 1/2 games.
- There is no penalty for raking the ball at Level 1/2. [adopted in 2018]
In the event that a loose ball cannot be picked up due to three or more players being caught in a scrum or scramble in a Level 1/2 game, officials should wait approximately four seconds before stopping play and awarding the ball via the alternate possession rule. [adopted in 2016]
Unlike 8U USL Youth rules, there are faceoffs at Level 1/2. [adopted by 2013]
Unlike 8U USL Youth rules, there are off-sides at Level 1/2. [adopted by 2013]
Unlike 8U USL Youth rules, partial-team substitutions and on-the-fly substitutions are allowed at Level 1/2.
[adopted by 2013]Goalies must return and remain in the crease when the opposing team has possession of the ball and is still in need of making required passes. [adopted 2023]
[adopted in 2016]
[adopted by 2013]
MYL Game Procedures and Expectations
Prior to every MYL game, the two head coaches and the official(s) must meet prior to the game to review the MYL Pre-game checklist and for the coaches to produce their MYL Coach Badge with Certification sticker.
For MYL Classic games, ALL coaches on the bench must have and be wearing a current year MYL Coaching Badge. Once coach from each team must have a badge with Certification sticker.
For Mass Youth Lacrosse Select games, all adults in the team bench area must have a current year MYL Coach Badge WITH Certification sticker on a lanyard, visible during the game.
The home team is expected to have a dedicated person as time keeper / scorekeeper for game who is stationed at midfield between both team benches.
The home team must confirm an EMLOA official has been scheduled for the game.
The home team is responsible for assigning an Associate Official (AO) to a L1/2 game as the lead official or to an older level as a second official or for reaching out to EMLOA with assistance in assigning an AO from another town
If the assigned EMLOA official fails to show, both coaches will agree on how to proceed.
The game should be rescheduled, if possible.
Coaches should consider the potential liability and quality of the game if played without a certified official.
Towns are encouraged to enlist parents or high-school aged students to become certified EMLOA Officials / Associate Officials.
The home coach is expected to pay the official(s) for MYL Classic games at the time of the game.
Mass Youth Lacrosse Select officials will be paid by the league, but a post-game report is required by both coaches.
The home team is responsible for contrasting jersey colors to the opponents’ jerseys and will wear contrasting pinnies if necessary in order to do so.
At the conclusion of each contest, players are to line up at midfield behind their respective goalies. Keeping their helmets on and only removing their right glove, they are to partake in handshakes (no fist bumps) with the opposing team.
What Size Lacrosse Stick for Youth
If you’re a parent or coach of a young lacrosse player, you might be wondering what size lacrosse stick is appropriate for their age and skill level. Choosing the right size stick can make a huge difference in their game, helping them to develop proper technique and maximize their potential on the field.
What Size Lacrosse Stick for Youth? When selecting a lacrosse stick for a youth player, it’s important to consider their age, height, and skill level. Generally, players under 10 years old should use a stick between 36-42 inches long, while those between 10-14 should opt for a stick between 40-44 inches
In this blog, we’ll explore the various sizes of lacrosse sticks available for youth players and provide tips on how to determine the best fit for your child or team.
Let’s get started!
Understanding Lacrosse Stick Components
When it comes to lacrosse, the stick is the most important piece of equipment for any player. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, selecting the right lacrosse stick is crucial for your performance on the field. These are the various components of a lacrosse stick and understand how they impact your game.
Anatomy of a Lacrosse Stick
Before we dive into the different types of lacrosse sticks, understand the basic anatomy of a stick. A lacrosse stick consists of three main components: the head, the shaft, and the pocket.
- The head: This is the top part of the stick that holds the pocket. The head is made of plastic, and its shape and size determine the width of the pocket. Attack and midfield sticks have narrower heads compared to defense sticks, which have wider heads to make it easier to catch and scoop ground balls.
- The shaft: This is the long part of the stick that the player holds. Shafts are made of various materials such as aluminum, titanium, and composite materials. The length of the shaft varies depending on the player’s position, and it can range from 40 to 72 inches.
- The pocket: This is the part of the stick that holds the ball. The pocket is made of nylon mesh and is attached to the head of the stick. The depth and placement of the pocket can affect the player’s performance, and players often adjust the pocket to their liking.
Shafts are made of various materials such as aluminum, titanium, and composite materials. The length of the shaft varies depending on the player’s position, and it can range from 40 to 72 inches.Differences between Attack, Midfield, Defense, and Goalie Sticks
Lacrosse sticks are designed differently for players in different positions. The size and shape of the head and the length of the shaft vary depending on the position of the player. Here is a breakdown of the differences between attack, midfield, defense, and goalie sticks:
- Attack sticks: These sticks are designed for offensive players who need quick and accurate passes and shots. Attack sticks have narrow heads and short shafts, which make it easier to maneuver in tight spaces and dodge defenders.
- Midfield sticks: Midfielders need to play both offense and defense, and their sticks are designed accordingly. Midfield sticks have a slightly wider head than attack sticks and a longer shaft than attack sticks, allowing for more power when shooting and passing.
- Defense sticks: Defense players need to be able to catch and scoop ground balls, and their sticks have a wider head and longer shaft. This design makes it easier to intercept passes and clear the ball from the defensive zone.
- Goalie sticks: Goalies have the most specialized sticks, with a wider head and a longer shaft. The wider head allows for more surface area to make saves, and the longer shaft enables goalies to clear the ball farther down the field.
Understanding the components of a lacrosse stick and the differences between the different types of sticks can help you select the right stick for your position and playing style.
Age-Based Stick Size Recommendations
Choosing the right size lacrosse stick for a youth player is crucial for their development in the sport.
A stick that is too long or too short can affect a player’s ability to handle the ball, pass accurately, and shoot with power.
As a general rule, younger players will need shorter sticks to accommodate their smaller size and less developed skills. Following are age-based stick size recommendations for players under 9, under 11, under 13, and under 15 years old.
U9
Under 9 years old For players under 9 years old, a stick length of 36-37 inches is recommended. The shorter stick length allows for better control and handling, which is essential for beginners. A lighter stick is also recommended for this age group, with a weight of around 11-12 ounces. This weight is easier for younger players to handle and allows them to develop proper technique.
U11
Under 11 years old For players under 11 years old, a stick length of 37-42 inches is recommended. The slightly longer stick allows for better reach and a wider range of motion. The weight of the stick should still be around 11-12 ounces to ensure proper technique and control.
U13
Under 13 years old For players under 13 years old, a stick length of 40-43 inches is recommended. At this age, players are growing and developing their skills, so a slightly longer stick is appropriate. The weight of the stick should still be around 11-12 ounces to promote proper technique and control.
U15
Under 15 years old For players under 15 years old, a stick length of 42-46 inches is recommended. At this age, players are nearing the transition to adult-sized sticks, so a longer stick can help them prepare for the change. The weight of the stick should still be around 11-12 ounces to promote proper technique and control.
Note that these are general guidelines, and individual players may have unique needs based on their height, weight, and skill level. Coaches and parents should take these recommendations into account and make adjustments as necessary to ensure that each player has the appropriate size stick for their age and skill level.
Assessing Player Position and Style
When it comes to choosing the right size lacrosse stick for youth players, consider the player’s position and style of play.
Different positions require different lengths and widths of sticks to optimize performance on the field. Here is a closer look at the ideal stick size for attack and midfield players, defense players, and goalie-specific considerations.
Attack and midfield players
Attack and midfield players typically use shorter sticks than defense players or goalies. The ideal stick length for these positions ranges from 40 to 42 inches. This length allows for greater maneuverability and control of the ball in tight spaces.
In addition to the length of the stick, the head of the stick should be wider to provide a larger surface area for catching and cradling the ball. A wider head can also help with shooting accuracy, making it easier for the player to hit their target.
Defense players
Defense players require longer sticks than attack and midfield players, with the ideal length ranging from 52 to 72 inches. A longer stick provides more reach and can help with checking and intercepting passes.
Find a stick that is not too heavy or cumbersome for the player to handle effectively.
The head of the stick for defense players should be more narrow than those for attack and midfield players, with a deeper pocket for greater control when scooping ground balls.
Goalie-specific considerations
Goalies require a specialized stick that is different from those used by other positions. Goalie sticks are typically the longest on the field, ranging from 40 to 72 inches in length. The longer length allows goalies to cover more of the goal and make saves from a greater distance.
The head of a goalie stick is also much wider than those of other positions, with a deeper pocket to make it easier to catch and control incoming shots. Note that goalie sticks are also heavier than those used by other positions, as the additional weight can help with making saves and controlling rebounds.
Stick Length Regulations
Choosing the right size lacrosse stick is crucial for players of all ages, especially for youth players who are still developing their skills.
The stick length should be appropriate for the player’s height, position, and personal preference. Below are the stick length regulations for youth players set by US Lacrosse and provide guidance on adjusting the stick length for personal preference and skill development.
US Lacrosse Youth Stick Length Guidelines
US Lacrosse has set specific regulations for the stick length of youth players based on their age group. According to US Lacrosse rules, the stick length for the U9 and U11 age groups should be between 37 and 42 inches. For the U13 and U15 age groups, the stick length should be between 37 and 72 inches.
These regulations are in place to ensure that players use appropriate equipment for their age and skill level, and to promote player safety on the field.
Note that these regulations are guidelines, and players may choose to use a stick length outside of the recommended range based on their personal preference and position. It’s crucial to keep in mind that using a stick length outside of the recommended range may result in penalties during games.
Adjusting Stick Length for Personal Preference and Skill Development
While following the US Lacrosse guidelines is important, players should also adjust their stick length based on their personal preference and skill level. For example, players who prefer a more defensive play style may choose a longer stick to increase their reach, while offensive players may prefer a shorter stick for better ball control.
Also, players can adjust their stick length as they develop their skills on the field. Younger players may benefit from using a shorter stick to learn the basics of catching and throwing, while older players may benefit from a longer stick to improve their accuracy and power in shooting.
When adjusting stick length, keep in mind that the stick should not be too long or too short for the player’s height. The player should be able to comfortably grip the stick and have full control over its movements.
Tips for Selecting the Right Shaft and Head
Choosing the right lacrosse stick is crucial for youth players who are just starting to learn the sport.
In addition to selecting the right size stick, choosing the right shaft and head can also impact their performance on the field. Following are some tips on how to select the right shaft and head for youth lacrosse players.
Choosing the right shaft material
The shaft of a lacrosse stick can be made from a variety of materials, including aluminum, composite, and wood. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the right shaft material:
- Weight: Lighter shafts can be easier to handle, but heavier shafts may be more durable and provide more power.
- Flexibility: Some shafts are designed to be more flexible than others, which can impact a player’s control and accuracy.
- Grip: Different shaft materials may have different textures and grips, which can impact a player’s ability to hold onto the stick.
- Cost: The cost of a lacrosse stick can vary depending on the material, consider the budget when selecting a shaft material.
Evaluating head shape and stiffness
The shape and stiffness of the lacrosse stick head can also impact a player’s performance on the field.
Here are some factors to consider when selecting the right head:
- Position: The position a player plays can impact the type of head they should select. Attackers may prefer a narrower head for better ball control, while midfielders and defenders may prefer a wider head for better catching and scooping.
- Stiffness: The stiffness of the head can impact a player’s ability to pass, catch, and shoot. Stiffer heads may provide more power, while more flexible heads may provide more control.
- Offset: The offset of the head refers to the angle between the shaft and the head. Different offsets can impact a player’s ability to cradle, pass, and shoot.
- Mesh: The type of mesh used in the head can impact the feel and control of the ball. Hard mesh may provide more consistency, while soft mesh may provide more control and feel.
By considering these factors when selecting the right shaft and head for a youth lacrosse player, you can help them improve their performance on the field and enjoy the sport even more.
Trying Sticks and Getting Feedback
Choosing the right lacrosse stick is crucial for players of all ages and skill levels, but it is especially important for young players who are just starting out in the sport. One of the best ways to determine the ideal stick size for a youth player is to try out different options and get feedback from knowledgeable sources. This can be done in a variety of ways, both during practice and at a sports store.
Testing Sticks During Practice or at a Sports Store
One of the most effective ways to test different lacrosse sticks is to try them out during practice. Many youth lacrosse programs will have a selection of sticks available for players to use, allowing them to experiment with different sizes and styles. During practice, players can get a feel for the stick’s weight, length, and Balance, and determine which size feels most comfortable and effective for their playing style.
If practice is not an option, visiting a local sports store that specializes in lacrosse gear can also be helpful.
Many stores will have a selection of youth sticks available for testing, allowing players to try out different sizes and styles before making a purchase.
It is important to keep in mind that the stick’s weight, length, and balance can vary greatly between different brands and models, so it is worth trying out several options before making a decision.
Seeking Advice from Coaches, Teammates, and Experienced Players
Another valuable way to determine the right size lacrosse stick for a youth player is to seek advice from those with experience in the sport. Coaches, teammates, and experienced players can provide valuable insight into which stick sizes and styles are most effective for certain positions or playing styles. They can also offer tips on how to choose a stick that fits properly and feels comfortable to use.
When seeking advice from others, keep in mind that personal preferences can vary greatly between players. What works for one player may not work for another, so take multiple perspectives into account when making a decision.
Ultimately, the best way to determine the right size lacrosse stick for a youth player is through trial and error, trying out different options and getting feedback from knowledgeable sources along the way.
Conclusion
Choosing the right size of lacrosse stick for youth players is crucial for their comfort and skill development. Generally, children under 10 should use a stick between 36-42 inches long, while those aged 10-14 should opt for a stick between 40-44 inches in length.
In conclusion, the size of a lacrosse stick plays a crucial role in the skill development and enjoyment of the game for youth players. It is important to ensure that the stick is properly sized for the player’s age, height, and skill level, as using a stick that is too long or too short can hinder their performance and limit their potential.
As youth players grow and develop, re-evaluate their stick size to ensure that it continues to fit their needs. This can be done by checking their height and skill level and adjusting the stick accordingly.
