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Do You Have What it Takes to Be an Awesome LAX Mom

Get to Know the LAX Lingo

As the season kicks off, lacrosse fields across the country are filling up with players, coaches, and of course, lacrosse moms. These dedicated parents rise before dawn to get their kids to early practices, spend weekends schlepping to travel tournaments, and cheer from the sidelines in all weather. Lacrosse moms are a special breed – and they have the gear and lingo to prove it.

From customized shirts to the latest accessories, LAX moms represent with pride. Lax mom shirts and sweatshirts tout their status, often embroidered with their player’s number and name. Accessories like lacrosse mom hats, bags, and car decals advertise their devotion. On game days, they go all out in themed attire to root for their lacrosse stars.

But being a lax mom is about more than sporting the labels. It’s a lifestyle and community built around love of the sport. These women know everything about lacrosse – from the rules and strategies to the time commitment and costs. They can rattle off stats, rankings, and scores for their kid’s team and others. When talking to other lax moms, they speak the lingo freely.

Some key lacrosse mom terms. The Ultimate Guide to Becoming an Awesome LAX Mom: Master the Game and Support Your Player

alexxlab 2 years ago 50 min read

What does it take to be a great lacrosse mom. How can you support your child’s passion for the sport. What are the essential rules and terminology you need to know. How can you become an integral part of the lacrosse community.

Table of Contents

Mastering the LAX Lingo: Essential Terms for Lacrosse Moms

Becoming an awesome LAX mom starts with understanding the unique language of the sport. Lacrosse has its own set of terms that players, coaches, and dedicated parents use to discuss the game. By familiarizing yourself with this vocabulary, you’ll be able to follow the action on the field and engage in meaningful conversations with other lacrosse enthusiasts.

Here are some key lacrosse terms every LAX mom should know:

Clears: When a team gains possession of the ball and runs it down the field towards the opponent’s goal
Rides: When players try to prevent the other team from clearing the ball
Extra man offense (EMO): Having more players on the field due to penalties
Man up: Shorthand for EMO
Man down: Having fewer players on the field due to penalties
Crease: The circular area near the goal where offensive players aren’t allowed
Pipe: The goal post
Dodge: Fakes and pivot moves used to get by defenders
Clamp: Securing the ball in the head of the stick

Understanding these terms will help you follow the game more closely and appreciate the strategies employed by the teams. It’s not just about knowing the words; it’s about understanding their significance in the context of the game.

The Rules of the Game: A Crash Course for LAX Moms

To truly excel as a LAX mom, you need to have a solid grasp of the game’s rules. Lacrosse can seem complex at first glance, but with a bit of study, you’ll soon be following the action like a pro.

Objective and Field Layout

The primary goal in lacrosse is to score more points than the opposing team by shooting the ball into their net. Men’s lacrosse is played on a 110-yard field, while women’s games take place on a 120-yard field. The width of the field can vary between 53-70 yards.

Player Positions

Lacrosse teams have ten players on the field, divided into offensive and defensive roles:

Attack: Focuses on scoring goals
Midfielders: Transition between offense and defense
Center: Takes faceoffs
Defenders: Prevent goals
Goalie: Guards the net
Long stick midfield: Backs up the defense

Equipment and Game Duration

Players wear protective gear including helmets, gloves, shoulder pads, and elbow pads. The crosse (stick) and ball are specially designed for the sport. College men’s games consist of four 15-minute quarters, while women’s games have two 30-minute halves. Youth and high school games typically have shorter durations.

The LAX Mom Lifestyle: More Than Just Spectating

Being a LAX mom is about more than just watching games from the sidelines. It’s a lifestyle that involves dedication, passion, and active participation in the lacrosse community. LAX moms are known for their unwavering support and involvement in their children’s lacrosse journey.

How do LAX moms demonstrate their commitment to the sport? Here are some common practices:

Rising early for practices and tournaments
Traveling to away games and competitions
Cheering from the sidelines in all weather conditions
Investing in lacrosse-themed apparel and accessories
Networking with other lacrosse parents
Volunteering for team and league activities
Studying game strategies and college recruiting processes

This level of involvement not only supports your child’s passion for lacrosse but also integrates you into a vibrant and supportive community of like-minded individuals.

Gearing Up: Essential LAX Mom Attire and Accessories

LAX moms often showcase their dedication through their attire and accessories. This gear not only demonstrates support for their players but also helps identify fellow lacrosse enthusiasts at games and tournaments.

Popular LAX mom gear includes:

Customized shirts and sweatshirts with player names and numbers
Lacrosse-themed hats and visors
Tote bags designed for carrying game day essentials
Car decals displaying team logos or “LAX Mom” pride
Themed jewelry such as lacrosse stick charms or team-colored bracelets

Where can you find LAX mom gear? Websites like LaxShirtsNow.com and LacrosseMonkey.com offer a wide range of options. Local sporting goods stores and team shops may also carry lacrosse-themed items for parents.

Building Your Lacrosse Knowledge: Beyond the Basics

To truly excel as a LAX mom, it’s important to continually expand your knowledge of the sport. This goes beyond understanding the basic rules and terminology. Dedicated LAX moms often become well-versed in various aspects of the game, including:

Advanced strategies and plays
Player statistics and performance metrics
College recruiting processes and requirements
Equipment trends and technological advancements
Lacrosse history and its cultural significance

How can you build this knowledge? Consider these strategies:

Attend coaching clinics or parent education sessions
Read lacrosse-focused publications and websites
Watch professional or college-level games to observe advanced play
Engage in discussions with coaches, players, and other knowledgeable parents
Volunteer to help with team management or scorekeeping to gain hands-on experience

By continuously learning about lacrosse, you’ll not only be better equipped to support your child but also gain a deeper appreciation for the intricacies of the sport.

Navigating the Lacrosse Community: Networking and Support

One of the most rewarding aspects of being a LAX mom is becoming part of a vibrant and supportive community. Lacrosse parents often form strong bonds through shared experiences and a common passion for the sport.

How can you effectively navigate and contribute to the lacrosse community?

Attend team and league events beyond just games
Join or create parent support groups
Offer mentorship to new lacrosse families
Participate in fundraising efforts for your team or league
Organize social events for players and families
Share resources and information with other parents

By actively engaging with the lacrosse community, you’ll not only enhance your own experience as a LAX mom but also contribute to the growth and sustainability of the sport in your area.

Supporting Your Lacrosse Player: Tips for Success

As a LAX mom, your primary role is to support your child’s passion for lacrosse. This support extends beyond just attending games and providing transportation. Here are some ways you can contribute to your player’s success and enjoyment of the sport:

Emotional Support

Provide encouragement and positive reinforcement, regardless of game outcomes. Help your child develop resilience and a growth mindset in facing challenges.

Physical Support

Ensure your player maintains a balanced diet and gets adequate rest. Help them develop good habits for injury prevention and recovery.

Academic Balance

Assist in managing time between lacrosse commitments and schoolwork. Emphasize the importance of maintaining good grades alongside athletic pursuits.

Equipment Management

Stay informed about equipment needs and ensure your player has properly fitting, safe gear. Learn basic maintenance for sticks and other equipment.

Goal Setting

Work with your child to set realistic, achievable goals for their lacrosse development. Celebrate progress and help them learn from setbacks.

By providing comprehensive support, you’ll not only contribute to your child’s success in lacrosse but also help them develop valuable life skills through their athletic journey.

The Long-Term Impact of Being a LAX Mom

Being a LAX mom is more than just a temporary role during your child’s playing years. It often becomes a lasting part of your identity and can have long-term impacts on both you and your family.

What are some of the long-term benefits and outcomes of being a dedicated LAX mom?

Strong family bonds formed through shared experiences and passions
Development of a wide social network within the lacrosse community
Personal growth through leadership and volunteering opportunities
Increased knowledge and appreciation for athletics and teamwork
Potential for continued involvement in lacrosse even after your child’s playing years

Many LAX moms find that their involvement in the sport doesn’t end when their children graduate. They often continue to volunteer, mentor new families, or even pursue coaching or administrative roles within lacrosse organizations.

The skills and connections developed as a LAX mom can also translate to other areas of life, whether in professional settings or other community involvement. The dedication, organization, and passion cultivated through years of supporting your lacrosse player can become valuable assets in various aspects of life.

Embracing the LAX Mom Journey: Challenges and Rewards

While being a LAX mom can be incredibly rewarding, it’s important to acknowledge that it also comes with its share of challenges. Understanding and preparing for these challenges can help you fully embrace and enjoy your role in the lacrosse community.

Common Challenges for LAX Moms

Balancing lacrosse commitments with other family and personal responsibilities
Managing the financial aspects of equipment, travel, and tournaments
Dealing with the emotional highs and lows of competitive sports
Navigating team dynamics and parent relationships
Staying positive and supportive during losing streaks or when your child faces setbacks

Overcoming Challenges

To address these challenges effectively, consider the following strategies:

Develop strong time management skills and create a family calendar to balance commitments
Plan ahead for lacrosse-related expenses and look for cost-saving opportunities
Foster open communication with your child about their lacrosse experience
Build positive relationships with other parents and team staff
Focus on personal growth and skill development rather than just game outcomes

Celebrating the Rewards

Despite the challenges, being a LAX mom offers numerous rewards that make the journey worthwhile:

Witnessing your child’s growth and development both on and off the field
Sharing in the excitement of game-winning goals and hard-fought victories
Building lasting friendships with other lacrosse families
Developing a deeper understanding and appreciation for a unique sport
Creating lasting memories through travel and shared experiences

By embracing both the challenges and rewards of being a LAX mom, you can create a positive and enriching experience for both yourself and your lacrosse player.

Continuing Your LAX Mom Journey: Growth and Evolution

As you progress in your role as a LAX mom, you’ll find that your journey continues to evolve. Your experiences, knowledge, and involvement in the sport will grow, offering new opportunities and perspectives.

Expanding Your Role

As you become more experienced, consider taking on new roles within the lacrosse community:

Team manager or coordinator
Fundraising committee member
Youth lacrosse coach or assistant coach
League board member or administrator
Mentor for new lacrosse families

Continuing Education

Stay current with lacrosse trends and developments by:

Attending coaching clinics and seminars
Participating in lacrosse officiating courses
Following professional lacrosse leagues and college programs
Engaging with online lacrosse communities and forums

Giving Back to the Sport

As your journey progresses, consider ways to contribute to the growth and sustainability of lacrosse:

Organize community lacrosse clinics or camps
Advocate for lacrosse programs in schools and community centers
Support initiatives to make lacrosse more accessible and inclusive
Contribute to lacrosse scholarship funds or equipment drives

By continually growing and evolving in your role as a LAX mom, you not only enhance your own experience but also contribute to the broader lacrosse community. Your journey as a LAX mom can be a lifelong adventure of learning, support, and passion for the sport.

Get to Know the LAX Lingo

Some key lacrosse mom terms:

Clears – when a team gains possession of the ball and runs it down the field towards the opponent’s goal
Rides – when players try to prevent the other team from clearing the ball
Extra man offense (EMO) – having more players on the field due to penalties
Man up – shorthand for EMO
Man down – having fewer players on the field due to penalties
Crease – the circular area near the goal where offensive players aren’t allowed
Pipe – the goal post
Dodge – fakes and pivot moves used to get by defenders
Clamp – securing the ball in the head of the stick

Lacrosse moms know these terms backwards and forwards. They study the rule book and watch games intently to understand play strategies. This gives them major cred with their kids and fellow lax moms.

These women fully immerse themselves in the lacrosse experience. They network and socialize at tournaments, bonding instantly thanks to their shared interest. Experienced LAX moms mentor newbies, teaching them about gear, drills, and more. They track college recruiting news and help players navigate the process. Many continue volunteering long after their kids graduate.

Make no mistake, lacrosse moms are not “soccer moms with sticks.” They are passionate fans who live and breathe the sport right alongside their kids. From youth leagues to college athletics, lax moms are in it for the long haul.

So the next time you’re at a game, keep an eye out for these dedicated women. Look for the telltale shirts, listen for the lingo, and observe their intense focus on play. Lacrosse may have started as the Creator’s Game, but lacrosse moms now share the driver’s seat in keeping traditions alive. Respect the moms – they are the heart and soul of this great sport.

Want to join the lax mom community? Get some gear at LaxShirtsNow.com and LacrosseMonkey.com. Study up on LAX slang and rules. Volunteer with your local youth league and attend tournaments to meet fellow moms. Embrace the lifestyle wholeheartedly, and soon you’ll have the skills, swag and lingo of a true lacrosse mom!

Learn the Rules of the Game Inside and Out

To truly earn your stripes as a LAX mom, you need to know the ins and outs of lacrosse like the back of your hand. Understanding gameplay, positions, penalties and protocols will help you better support your player, converse knowledgeably with other moms, and enjoy watching the sport.

Lacrosse has a reputation for being fast and complex. With ten players on the field, specialized equipment, and constant motion, it can seem daunting for newbies. But learning the basics is very manageable if you commit some time. Here’s a crash course on key concepts:

Objective

The aim of lacrosse is to score goals by shooting the ball into the opponent’s net. Whichever team has more goals at the end wins!

Field

Men play on a 110-yard field, women on one 120 yards long. Field width ranges from 53-70 yards. Lines, creases and other markings define the zones of play.

Positions

There are ten positions divided into offense and defense. On offense: the attack tries to score goals, midfielders transition between offense and defense, and the center takes faceoffs. On defense: defenders prevent goals, the goalie guards the net, and long sticks midfield back up the defense.

Equipment

Mandatory protective gear includes a helmet, gloves, shoulder pads and elbow pads. The crosse (stick) and ball are specially designed for handling and throwing. Goalies wear extra padding plus a chest protector.

Game Length

Men’s college games have four 15-minute quarters; women’s have two 30-minute halves. Youth and high school games are shorter. Games stopped for penalties or ball out of bounds don’t run continuously like the clock in other sports.

Scoring

Goals scored from inside the crease count. Shots outside the crease must be released before touching the ground. Goals by defenders or the goalie only count for the other team!

Faceoffs

Faceoffs restart play at the midfield after goals and some dead balls. The center players crouch to compete for the ball after the referee’s whistle. Faceoff specialists help a team maintain possession.

Out of Bounds

When the ball goes out of play, possession is awarded via faceoffs or by alternate possession. Players can’t touch the ball if they step out of bounds while carrying it.

Penalties

Common violations include offsides, pushing, illegal body checking and slashing. Penalized players serve 1-3 minute stints in the penalty box, leaving their team short-handed.

Those are the essential rules LAX moms need to know. Beyond that, keep an eye out for unique gameplay like picks/screens, fast breaks after turnovers, and players jamming sticks to force dropped balls. Don’t be afraid to ask other moms when you see something confusing!

To cement your knowledge, read the full high school or college rule book. Watch games actively, tracking goals, penalties, fouls, and more. Observe how your child’s team runs drills at practice. Knowing the framework makes it easier to interpret what’s happening on the field and strategize how to create opportunities.

Most importantly, rules awareness lets you connect more with your LAX kid. Talk to them about tricky regulations, like how far from the crease they need to be before shooting. Discuss their favorite moves for advancing the ball. Ask for their take on penalty calls you questioned. This shows genuine interest in their development and success.

Wear your LAX mom gear with authority once you’ve got the rules down pat. You will have earned the right to rep lacrosse with your sleeveless hoodie, threaded hat, and decked out cooler. Other moms will high-five your dedication to learning the game. And you can rest assured your LAX kid has an amazing, supportive role model at their events.

Always Have Plenty of Healthy Snacks on Hand

Between early morning practices, back-to-back games, and long tournaments, life as a LAX mom involves a lot of time on the road and at the field. Making sure your lacrosse player is properly fueled with nutritious snacks is a key duty. Avoid the temptation for convenience and instead pack snacks that give energy, focus, and stamina.

The main snack pitfalls to steer clear of are sugar and salt. Candy, chips, and other junk may provide a quick burst, but will lead to fatigue and hunger again soon after. High fat and low protein options can also leave lacrosse kids feeling sluggish. Instead, aim for snacks rich in complex carbs, fiber, and protein.

Here are go-to options that every LAX mom should have on hand:

Fresh Fruit

Fruit like apples, oranges, grapes, bananas and berries offer natural sweetness plus important vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are portable and pack well in a cooler or team snack bag. Mix varieties for more interest.

Dried Fruit and Fruit Leathers

For convenience, keep a stash of dried fruits like raisins, apricots, and mango. Search for unsweetened, additive-free kinds. Fruit leathers or gummy versions like Fruit by the Foot avoid the issue of stickiness.

Yogurt and Yogurt Tubes

Greek yogurt provides protein, calcium, probiotics, and vitamins. Look for unsweetened vanilla or fruit flavors. Yogurt in squeezable tubes like GoGoSqueez makes yogurt mess-free and fun for kids.

Nut Butters

Nut butters offer staying power thanks to protein, fiber and healthy fats. Pack portion packs, sandwiches, apples and celery spread with nut butter, or squeeze packs. Try almond butter for a break from peanut butter.

Hummus and Vegetables

Hummus is made from nutrient-dense chickpeas and provides filling plant-based protein. Pair it with sliced bell peppers, cucumbers, carrots and celery for dipping on the go.

Whole Grain Crackers

Look for crackers made with 100% whole grains, seeds, and minimal ingredients. Pair with cheese slices or dip hummus or nut butter between for a filling carb and protein snack.

Popcorn

Air-popped or stovetop popcorn is a better bet than chips when a crunchy, salty snack is in order. Sprinkle lightly with nutritional yeast for seasoning instead of butter.

Protein and Granola Bars

Check the sugar content on bars and opt for 10 grams or less. Kind Bars, Larabars, and RXBARs offer decent nutrition profiles. Or make your own healthy granola bars with oats, nuts, dried fruit and seeds.

A few other handy tips for LAX moms on snack patrol:

Make large batches ahead on weekends for grab-and-go throughout the week.
Involve kids in preparing snacks to get them invested.
Let the team snack bag do double duty as a cooler with ice packs.
Hydration is critical – always pack drinks like water and coconut water.
Bring snacks even if the host site provides concessions in case options are limited.

Don’t stress about snack perfection though. An occasional treat like popcorn or candy won’t derail performance as long as it’s not the norm. Focus on providing nutrition-dense foods at least 80% of the time.

And remember – modeling healthy eating yourself is just as important. Resist temptation from the sidelines hot dog cart and trailer pizza. Munch on the same fruits, veggies, hummus and nuts you brought for the team. Let your player see you taking care of your own nutritional needs.

When tourney days drag into nights, your lacrosse kid will be grateful for snacks that power them through. That protein bar in the 4th quarter could be a game changer! Reward your preparation and planning with a big LAX mom shirt that says “Snack Warrior” on the back. Other moms will envy your on-the-go fuel station.

Help Your Player Improve Their Skills at Home

Practice doesn’t end when you leave the lacrosse field. As a LAX mom, you can encourage skill development at home to give your player an edge. With some simple equipment and your creative guidance, turn your yard or basement into an extra training space.

Work on these drills together to maintain stick skills between team practices:

Cradling

Cradling means moving the stick rhythmically to maintain control of the ball. Have them practice walking, jogging, and running while cradling. Work both hands. Challenge with cradling circuits around cones.

Scooping

Perfecting scooping ground balls is essential. Roll balls for them to scoop, gradually increasing speed and mixing up directions. Challenge with scattered scooping requiring fast direction changes.

Catching and Throwing

Play catch together to improve hand-eye coordination for catching, quickness for releasing on target, and throwing mechanics. Start close up then move back. Remind them to follow through towards the target on throws.

Dodging

Work on dodges like splits and rolls to evade defenders. Set up cones as stand-in defenders to practice juke moves. Offer resistance with your stick as they try to dodge past.

Shooting

Practice shooting form and accuracy on a makeshift goal or backyard net. Focus on mechanics like transfers from cradle to shoot, rotation of the stick, and follow through. Do reps from different angles.

You don’t need fancy equipment – just space, a stick, and ball. Other handy practice items:

Plywood or plastic sheets as backstops to save chasing missed shots
Cones or objects to dodge around
Buckets or boxes as goals
Wall for wall ball passing and catching

Some other ways to promote skills at home:

Watch game and highlight videos together to analyze technique
Research drills online to try new challenges
Stretch together to improve flexibility for motion skills
Discuss areas they want to improve and how to target them

Of course you can also supplement team practices with professional training. Look for:

Camps – Offseason and position-specific camps boost skills.
Clinics – Local clinics offer small group training.
Private Lessons – One-on-one coaching targets individual needs.

But don’t overload on paid options and burn out. Repetition of fundamental drills with you in the backyard may benefit them just as much. Some keys:

Keep drills short and dynamic – 10-15 minutes tops.
Vary activities to keep them engaged.
End each session with a fun finisher like rapid-fire shooting.
Provide encouragement and constructive feedback.
Make sure to spend time throwing casually too!

Home training gives you special bonding time with your player. They will appreciate you braving the cold to feed them passes, and your cheers when they hit a tricky dodge move. This investment in their development helps build confidence too.

Don’t hesitate to ask their coach for input on skills to focus on together. And chat with other LAX parents to get ideas for home improvement projects. You may start a trend with home nets popping up down the block!

Nothing beats the pride of seeing your hard work pay off for your player at tryouts and games. Other LAX moms will envy your extra practice and ask you for drills. Share your knowledge and watch the whole team get elevated together.

Show Up for Every Game and Practice (Even in Bad Weather!)

Do you have what it takes to be an awesome LAX mom? Lacrosse is one of the fastest growing youth sports in the country, which means more and more parents are joining the ranks of Lax moms and dads. As any sports parent knows, it’s a big commitment that requires dedication, sacrifice, and yes – the right gear. If you’re new to the LAX life or are a seasoned pro, here’s what it takes to be the best lax mom ever.

First and foremost, an exceptional lax mom shows up. She is present for games, practices, and everything in between. This means modifying work schedules, arranging carpools, and rearranging life to be at the field or gym. An awesome lax mom supports her player rain or shine, hot or cold, weeknight or weekend. She bundles up in extra layers when it’s freezing or slathers on sunscreen when it’s blistering. Her chair and cooler are a permanent fixture on the sidelines. Showing up consistently demonstrates unwavering commitment and provides invaluable moral support.

Beyond just being physically present, a lax mom is engaged and enthusiastic. She cheerleads proudly during games without being overbearing. During practice, she observes quietly and saves coaching feedback for the ride home. An outstanding lax mom understands the difference between supportive interest and pushy involvement. She recognizes that youth sports are about more than competition and results – it’s an opportunity for her child to develop confidence, character, and lifelong memories. An engaged lax mom fosters this big picture perspective.

An exceptional lax mom also makes things happen behind the scenes. She coordinates schedules, transportation, and logistics so her player can focus on skills and strategy. She ensures proper equipment is purchased and maintained. A great lax mom volunteers to support the team – whether running the snack stand or organizing the end of season banquet. She models good sportsmanship and school spirit for other parents. Her planning and effort allows the team to run smoothly.

And of course, the gear! The right LAX mom shirt, sweatshirt, or hat is a must for displaying team pride all season long. An awesome lax mom rocks her lax tee at tournaments, practices, and even around town. Lacrosse apparel in her team’s colors shows spirit and solidarity with fellow lax parents. It can spark conversations with others about this great sport. Plus, custom LAX designs look super cute with leggings or jeans for weekend errands and carpools. Any lax mom worth her salt knows that repping her lacrosse player is a year-round commitment!

While being a lax mom requires real dedication, it is incredibly rewarding. An exceptional lax mom understands that her consistent presence, active engagement, behind-the-scenes support, and killer lacrosse swag are what her young athlete needs to have a fulfilling and fun season. She embraces this vital role and enjoys creating memories together along the way. Her player’s growth and the lasting bonds built with teammates and fellow lax families make the commitment more than worthwhile. So suit up, grab the cooler, and go cheer on your star – let’s do this, LAX moms!

Volunteer to Help with Team Tasks or Fundraising

Do you have what it takes to be an awesome LAX mom? As any youth sports parent knows, it’s about more than just showing up to games and cheering from the sidelines. Being a truly exceptional lax mom requires going the extra mile to support the team behind-the-scenes too. From administrative tasks to fundraising efforts, an outstanding lacrosse mom actively contributes to help the program run smoothly. She understands that stepping up and giving her time makes a meaningful difference for her child and the entire team. Here’s how to be that vital volunteer who helps drive success all season long.

An awesome lax mom starts by volunteering for some of the essential day-to-day team jobs. This could include helping the coach coordinate schedules and communicate updates to parents. Lax moms can also assist with organizing carpools, so players always have reliable transportation. They help ensure uniforms and equipment are ready for games and practice. Handling these administrative tasks alleviates burden on the coaching staff, allowing them to focus on skills development and game strategy.

Exceptional lax moms also take the lead on planning team events over the course of the season. This includes coordinating the pre-season meet and greet, organizing the mid-season pasta dinner, and orchestrating the big end-of-season banquet. These events foster vital team bonding and family connections. An awesome lax mom handles the venues, food, decor and all the nuances so players and families can simply attend and enjoy. Her behind-the-scenes efforts set the stage for building lifelong lacrosse memories.

In addition to administrative work and event planning, conscientious lax moms step up when extra funds are needed to support the team. From new equipment to travel expenses, youth sports often require financial assistance beyond basic registration fees. An awesome lacrosse mom organizes fundraising efforts to help bridge these gaps. She rallies fellow parents to participate and makes sure initiatives run smoothly. Things like car washes, restaurant spirit nights, bake sales, or raffles take coordination – but they generate essential dollars for the team. Her leadership on these initiatives makes a tangible difference.

Being an excellent lax mom is about more than repping the latest spirit wear and yelling cheers from the sideline. It’s about rolling up your sleeves and actively contributing towards the team’s success in big and small ways. Administrative support, event planning, fundraising – these behind-the-scenes efforts require a substantial time commitment. But they demonstrate true dedication and allow the team to thrive. So ask yourself: Are you willing to be the lacrosse mom who makes things happen? If so, grab your laptop and volunteer spreadsheet – your team needs you!

Customize Fun Lacrosse Gear for You and Your Player

Do you have what it takes to be an awesome LAX mom? We’ve covered showing up, staying engaged, and volunteering – but equally important is repping your lacrosse pride in style! Custom lax gear allows you to uniquely show off your team spirit while bonding with fellow parents. With so many options for creating personalized lacrosse shirts, sweatshirts, and other swag, you can outfit yourself and your player in coordinating designs you won’t find anywhere else. Let’s explore creative ways to rock custom lacrosse gear all season (and year) long!

First, pick items in your team colors that you and your lax kid can wear to games and tournaments. Matching LAX mom and player shirts are a super cute way to display team spirit together. Choose comfy tees in soft cotton with screen printed designs on the front or back. Add your player’s name, number, and fun lacrosse graphics to customize. Long sleeve tees or hoodies are great for chillier game days. You can never go wrong representing your squad in coordinating custom lax tops!

Next, consider cool lacrosse sweatshirts and jackets you can wear over normal clothes for cozy warmth. Look for pullover hoodies, zip-up jackets, track jackets, and more. Decorate the back with a large custom design like your player’s name, number and lax stick graphic. This ensures your support is seen as you cheer the team on. For moms and dads both, LAX outerwear with custom touches shows spirited style.

Accessories like hats, visors, and bags are another way to flaunt your lacrosse flair. Snapbacks with the team logo or your player’s number are stylish and keep the sun out of your eyes on the field. Visors can be adorned with sparkly custom bling as well. Tote bags are great for carrying gear and snacks in LAX mom style. Add an embroidered name, cute quote, or unique graphic to make them pop. The options are endless for customizing lacrosse accessories!

And because you’ll wear your custom LAX gear year-round, consider seasonal designs too. Cozy pullovers and flannels for fall tournaments, stylish raglans and lightweight hoodies for spring season. Custom holiday designs make awesome lacrosse gifts as well. Your creativity is your only limit when designing personalized gear to represent your LAX love.

Custom lacrosse apparel allows you to show spirit for your lax player in fun, unique ways. Matching shirts, outerwear, accessories, seasonal items – the possibilities are endless! Homemade iron-ons and sparkly bling let you DIY it. Or work with vendors offering printing, embroidery and pro quality for completely custom LAX swag. However you create it, customized gear specially made for and by Lax families is the ultimate way to showcase your passion. Let’s go design some lax love!

Encourage Good Sportsmanship and Team Spirit

Do You Have What it Takes to Be an Awesome LAX Mom?

Provide Emotional Support After Tough Losses

Do You Have What it Takes to Be an Awesome LAX Mom?

Celebrate the Small Victories Along the Way

Do You Have What it Takes to Be an Awesome LAX Mom?

Foster Lasting Friendships Between Teammates

Team sports provide a unique opportunity to develop strong bonds and lasting friendships. When you spend countless hours at practices and games together, working towards common goals, it’s only natural for teammates to form close relationships. However, simply being on the same team does not guarantee meaningful connections will develop. Fostering camaraderie and friendship amongst players requires intention and effort.

So how can coaches and players cultivate an environment that encourages lasting friendships? Here are some tips:

Lead by Example

As the saying goes, actions speak louder than words. Coaches and team leaders need to model the types of positive behaviors and attitudes they want to see from their players. Be encouraging, show empathy, and highlight the importance of supporting one another on and off the field. If older players embrace these values, it will spread to the rest of the team.

Facilitate Bonding Opportunities

Look for chances outside of practice to bring players together in relaxed, non-competitive settings. You could organize a team dinner, bowling night, movie marathon, or day trip to a theme park. Sharing these novel experiences lets teammates get to know each other’s personalities outside the structure of drills and plays. The memories made during these activities become part of the team’s identity.

Promote Positivity

Negativity is toxic to bonding and should be stamped out. Don’t allow trash talking, taunting, or bullying. Make it clear these behaviors won’t be tolerated. Use mistakes or losses as teaching moments rather than blame. Celebrate the small victories as you work towards bigger goals. Recognize players for positive contributions with shoutouts and awards. Keeping things upbeat prevents resentment from brewing.

Instill Shared Responsibility

When players feel like they depend on each other, they will be more likely to come together. Emphasize how supporting teammates both on and off the field leads to team success. Design drills that require cooperation and coordination. Make sure everyone feels valued regardless of time spent on the field. Elevate “locker room guys” who quietly boost morale and camaraderie behind the scenes.

Create Healthy Competition

Friendly rivalry between teammates can actually strengthen bonds, especially if competition stays focused on self-improvement. Challenge players to raise their personal bests or accomplish new skills. Recognize hard work ethic and perseverance, not just scoring and metrics. Have contests to see who can show up early, stay positive, support their teammates the most, etc. Healthy competition within a team framework breeds interdependence.

Plan Off-Field Activities

Seeing each other outside the context of the sport can reveal common interests and forge connections. Survey players about their hobbies and favorite activities. You may discover shared passions like gaming, reading, hiking, music, cars or crafting. Organize outings related to these interests players can join: gaming or trivia nights, book club meetings, nature walks, concert trips, auto shows, craft fairs, and so on. Voluntary activities feel less forced.

Encourage Mentorships

Pairing younger players with older teammates helps them feel included and offers guidance. Have veterans share their experience and what they’ve learned through the years. When rookies know someone is looking out for them, they’ll be more likely to reach out if they’re struggling on or off the field. Mentorships provide leadership opportunities for older players as well.

Get Families Involved

Bonds between teammates often extend to siblings, parents and beyond. Organize a family picnic where relatives can meet and mingle in a relaxed setting. Establish a parent committee to help with volunteering, fundraising, gear and transportation. When families feel part of the team, they’re more likely to facilitate hangouts and support relationships.

Set Clear Ground Rules

Outline explicit expectations and boundaries around hazing, harassment, confidentiality, social media, partying, curfews, and conduct during road trips or overnight events. Discuss topics like bullying and consent. Ensure policies are consistent, transparent, and consequences are applied equally. Well-defined ground rules establish trust.

Developing camaraderie and fellowship among teammates requires continuous effort. However, the rewards of lasting bonds and lifelong friendships make the effort worthwhile. Teams rich with trust, interdependence and support for one another will be more successful on and off the field.

Do You Have What it Takes to Be an Awesome LAX Mom?

Being a lacrosse mom is about so much more than just cheering from the sidelines. It takes true dedication, sacrifice, and a willingness to go the extra mile (sometimes literally!) for the love of the game and your lacrosse player. Here’s what it really takes to be an awesome LAX mom:

Comfortable, Supportive Gear

A great lax mom knows the right gear can make all the difference on those long tournament days and chilly spring nights. Skip the folding chairs and invest in a comfortable, compact lacrosse chair like the ALPS Mountaineering Lacrosse Chair. It has adjustable padded armrests and a convenient side table for snacks and drinks. Pack a lacrosse blanket or stadium seat cushion for extra warmth and padding on metal bleachers. And be sure to rock a stylish LAX Mom t-shirt, hoodie, or hat to cheer on your player in style.

Time and Dedication

Being a lacrosse mom is not for the faint of heart – or schedule! Between weekday practices, weekend tournaments and games all over the region, you’ll need to rearrange your calendar and be willing to put in the time. Prepare for late nights and crack-of-dawn alarms to get your player to the field on time. It may feel tiring, but creating memories together cheering on your favorite LAXer makes it all worthwhile.

Transportation and Logistics Mastery

With lacrosse gear bags bursting at the seams, carpooling teammates, and locations that always seem just a little too far away, you’ll need logistics skills that rival an air traffic controller. Keep a calendar of practices, games, and tournaments. Coordinate carpools. Pack snacks and drinks. Verify directions. Check traffic and leave early. Find the best spot to pick up or drop off. Have extra hair ties, tape, towels and blankets on hand for teammates. Your transportation mastery keeps the team running smoothly.

Unwavering Positivity

Every game can’t be a win. Inevitable losses and mistakes happen. When the team is feeling down, a great lax mom boosts morale with high-fives, positive cheers, and words of encouragement. Focus on the progress made, skills learned, and fun had instead of scores. Your steadfast positivity reminds players why they love the game, regardless of the outcome.

Behind-the-Scenes Support

A lax mom’s work extends well beyond game days. Help prep healthy pre-game meals and snacks to fuel your athlete. Ensure they have proper equipment – restringing sticks, replacing pads, and resizing helmets as needed. Volunteer as team mom to coordinate schedules and logistics. Fundraise to help with team expenses. As much as lacrosse teaches discipline and time management, players still need mom’s gentle (or not so gentle) reminders.

Lacrosse Education

While the lightning-fast pace of lacrosse games may be bewildering at first, part of being an awesome lax mom is learning the skills, rules, and lingo. Study up on the positions, penalties, and fouls. Learn the difference between a crease violation, offsides, and warding off. Understanding the basics helps you appreciate the game and your player’s contributions. And of course, you’ll need to master the referees’ hand signals for when excitement gets the best of your voice.

Unconditional Love and Support

At the heart of every awesome lacrosse mom is unconditional love and support for their player and team. Show up with high-fives and hugs after rough losses and celebrate the exhilarating wins. Remind them of their progress at each step. Instill perspective when emotions run high. Your steadfast presence and words of encouragement carry them through the ups and downs. And when the gear is hung up at season’s end, cherished memories with amazing teammates – and mom – last a lifetime.

The life of a lax mom requires true commitment, patience, and a willingness to go the extra mile for your player and their team. But it’s a labor of love. By providing unwavering support on and off the field, lax moms create bonds and memories that last long after the final whistle blows.

Help Your Player Balance Lacrosse and Other Commitments

Playing a competitive sport like lacrosse requires major dedication. But most student-athletes have obligations and interests beyond LAX that also demand time and attention. As a lacrosse parent, how can you help your player effectively balance their lacrosse commitments with academics, family, friends, hobbies, jobs and more?

Finding that equilibrium between sports and other priorities is crucial for your child’s well-being and success on and off the field. Here are some tips to help your lacrosse player achieve better balance:

Establish Priorities

Sit down together and map out your player’s commitments over the course of a typical week/month. Include schoolwork, tests, family time, practices, games, travel, jobs, chores, clubs, religious services, and downtime. Then identify priorities and make adjustments so lacrosse doesn’t subsume everything else. Setting priorities together gives your player ownership.

Manage the Schedule

With a busy schedule, planning ahead is a must. Use a calendar to map out practices, games, assignments, tests, social commitments and other activities. Schedule dedicated blocks for homework. Plan ahead for heavy academic weeks. Cluster lighter workload days for catch-up time. Schedule commitments thoughtfully to minimize conflicts and cram sessions.

Establish Study Habits

With increased academic rigor in high school, your player needs organized study habits. Have them create daily homework blocks in their schedule for uninterrupted focus. Suggest productivity tools and apps to avoid distractions. Study at the same time daily to build a habit. Study on the bus or during downtime at tournaments. Checking assignments should be part of their daily routine.

Maintain Open Communication

Talk regularly about your child’s schedule and discuss any signs of burnout. Stress that you’re available to listen and modify commitments if needed. Check in before big academic assignments or tournaments to see if extra support is necessary. Make sure your lacrosse player knows they can approach coaches if any adjustments to sports commitments are necessary.

Set Tech Boundaries

Phones and social media are huge distractions. Establish tech-free homework time. Charge devices outside bedrooms overnight. Disable alerts during study hours. Set a curfew for when devices must be shut off at night. Limit social media during heavy academic weeks. Tech boundaries help maintain focus.

Recharge and Decompress

A packed schedule leaves little time for relieving stress and recharging mental energy. Build in mandatory downtime, whether it’s reading, hiking, gaming or just relaxing with friends. Establish tech-free family meals for catching up and decompressing. Adequate sleep and physical recovery time is also crucial following intense tournaments and weeks.

Involve Other Adults

Talk to teachers, counselors, coaches and other parents for guidance about balancing commitments. Teachers can give advice for managing schoolwork around sports. Coaches may be able to adjust practice schedules when needed. Counselors can look out for signs of stress. Other parents often have creative suggestions that have worked for their student-athletes.

Focus on Academics First

As tempting as it is to put sports first, school has to be the priority. If grades start slipping, lacrosse commitments may need to be dialed back. Be prepared to have tough conversations with coaches in these situations. Your child’s long-term success depends on keeping academics first.

The life of a student-athlete is undoubtedly demanding. But with open communication, organization, and the willingness to speak up and modify commitments when needed, it’s possible for your lacrosse player to thrive in all aspects of life, not just sports. The skills learned in balancing lacrosse and other obligations will serve them well into adulthood.

Do You Have What it Takes to Be an Awesome LAX Mom?