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Looking to Get Your Kid into Lacrosse This Year. Here’s Everything You Need in a Mini Lax Set

Introduce Mini Lacrosse as a Fun Backyard Sport for Kids

As temperatures start to warm up and the days get longer, parents look for ways to keep their kids active and engaged outside. This year, why not introduce them to the fast-paced sport of lacrosse right in your own backyard? With a complete mini lacrosse set, you can get your aspiring athlete started with the basics of passing, catching, shooting and more.

Mini lacrosse, sometimes called lax for short, is an exciting game that provides a total body workout. It helps develop hand-eye coordination, endurance and teamwork. By investing in a high-quality mini lacrosse set, you’ll have everything you need for your kids to practice their skills and scrimmage with friends and siblings.

A full mini lacrosse set includes adjustable goals, lacrosse stick heads, shafts, balls and protective gear. Look for goals that can be set to different widths and heights as your kids grow and their skills progress. Being able to fold up the goals for storage is also convenient for tight backyard spaces.

Make sure the netting on the mini lacrosse goals is durable and designed for outdoor use. Nets need to withstand impact from shots and passes without tearing or unraveling. Weather-resistant nylon mesh is ideal. Mini lacrosse nets come in different sizes including 2×2, 3×3 and 4×4 feet.

Lacrosse sticks for mini lacrosse sets range from age-appropriate lengths for young players up to regulation size. Stick materials are important too, with solid wood or composite shafts being more durable. Mini lacrosse stick heads can be strung traditionally or come pre-strung for easy setup.

Look for soft, squishy lacrosse balls when buying a starter set for kids. Mini lacrosse balls help reduce potential for injuries from errant shots and make catching easier for beginners. Hard lacrosse balls come later as skills improve.

Safety gear like mini lacrosse helmets, gloves, elbow and shoulder pads are a must. Lightweight protective equipment gives kids confidence as they scoop up ground balls, cradle and pass the ball. Sets with full goalie gear are great for backyard games.

Top brands making complete mini lacrosse sets include Maverik and STX. Their lax starter sets are designed to help develop fundamentals through drills and scrimmages. Adjustable features suit a wide range of ages and ability levels.

Starting mini lacrosse training in the backyard builds interest in the sport and makes practice time fun. Kids learn skills at their own pace without pressure. Mini lax sets are also easy to set up and take down in your yard or at a park.

Beyond passing and shooting, mini lacrosse helps with hand-eye coordination that benefits kids in any sport. Tracking and catching a ball in the air, quick passing and changing direction all challenge visual tracking and reflexes.

Setting up a mini lacrosse field is part of the backyard sport experience. Use cones to mark corners and boundaries. Set up shot targets and passing lanes to practice shooting form and accuracy.

Incorporating passing patterns, dodging drills, shots on goal and scrimmage time makes for engaging mini lacrosse practice. Kids stay active running patterns to get open for passes before taking a shot.

The ideal age for mini lacrosse sets is 6 to 10 years old. With adjustable stick lengths and goals, mini lax suits a range of skill levels too. More experienced kids can tighten the nets and use regulation balls.

Giving your kids the gift of lacrosse this summer is easy and affordable with complete mini lacrosse sets available online. Browse top choices with nets, goals, sticks, balls, protective gear and more to get your backyard lax season started!

Explain What Comes in a Complete Mini Lacrosse Set

Getting your kid started in lacrosse is easier than ever thanks to complete mini lacrosse sets that come with everything needed to play. Before you purchase a set, take some time to understand all the gear that comes in a full mini lax starter kit so you can make the best choice.

At the heart of any mini lacrosse set are the goals. Look for portable goals that are adjustable for width and height as your young athlete grows. Sturdy steel or aluminum frames with weather-resistant nylon netting are best for durability. Mini lax goals that fold up make storage and transportation easy.

Matching the goal size, a full mini lacrosse set includes lacrosse stick heads designed for beginning players. Heads come pre-strung with nylon mesh pocketing or unstrung if you want to string them yourself. Mini heads are available in ages 5U, 6U, 7U and up for the perfect fit.

Lacrosse stick shafts pair with heads to complete the stick. Youth shafts range from short 20-30” lengths up to regulation. Strong composite or wood shafts will withstand those early backyard games. A full set has 2-4 stick heads and shafts for game play.

Soft, squeeze lacrosse balls are a must for mini lax sets. Beginner-friendly balls reduce risk of injury from inaccurate passing and shooting. Look for ball sets with 6-12 balls in bright colors for high visibility. Lacrosse sets may also include harder balls for advanced kids.

To complete the full mini lacrosse experience, protective gear keeps kids safe during those competitive backyard matchups. Arm guards, gloves, shoulder pads and even helmet/goggle sets protect young players as they develop skills.

For full-on scrimmages and games, goalie gear like chest protectors, gloves and sticks get everyone in on the action. Some mini lax sets even include goal boxes and agility cones for drills.

When buying a mini lacrosse set, look for adjustments that will grow with your kid. Portable goals that extend wider and taller are ideal as arm strength develops for longer passes and higher shot accuracy improves.

Sticks with adjustable length shafts suit players as they age up through the youth sizes. Netting and balls can progress from soft beginner gear to regulation equipment for intermediate players with some experience.

With everything needed for full mini lacrosse games in the backyard, a complete starter set makes it easy and fun to introduce kids to this fast-paced sport. Investing in adjustable and durable mini lax gear ensures it will last through many seasons of play.

Discuss Importance of Adjustable and Portable Goals

When putting together a mini lacrosse set for your backyard, one of the most important investments are the goals. Adjustable and portable mini lacrosse goals offer versatility and convenience that grows along with your young athlete.

Adjustable widths and heights allow the mini lacrosse goals to be tailored to match your kid’s age and skill level. As their passing accuracy and shooting range increase, goals can be extended wider and the height raised.

Many top mini lax goal brands like STX and Maverik offer telescoping poles and flexible joints for quick customization. Simply pull out the poles and extend the frame to widen the goal mouth up to 4 feet or more.

Raising the crossbar height from as low as 4 feet up to regulation 6 feet lets beginners build confidence before graduating to full-size goals. Markings on the frames make it easy to reset the width and height as needed.

Portability is another key feature for mini lacrosse goals. Goals designed for backyard play are much lighter than regulation metal goals. Frames made from aluminum or steel alloys with plastic joints make them easy for one person to transport.

Wheeled carry bags are ideal for getting mini lacrosse goals to and from the park or field. Bags protect the goals during transport while making it easy to bring a full set to practice or games.

Easy breakdown is essential for portable mini lacrosse goals too. Folding and collapsing goals to a compact size simplifies storing them at home between practices. Quick assembly also gets you playing sooner.

Starting young kids with smaller beginner-sized goals builds confidence in passing, catching and shooting skills. Then gradually increasing the goal mouth width and height challenges them to improve.

Portable goals mean you can relocate full mini lacrosse scrimmages from your backyard to a nearby park or field. Kids enjoy a change of scenery while getting to test their full-game skills.

Investing in adjustable mini lacrosse goals with solid but lightweight construction provides versatility for a wide range of ages and skill levels. The portability also lets kids extend practices and games beyond the backyard.

Look at Durability and Quality of Mini Lacrosse Nets

The lacrosse net is the focal point of any goal, so durability and quality are key factors when choosing mini lacrosse nets. With errant shots, weather exposure and transport to games, your backyard lacrosse nets need to withstand plenty of wear and tear.

For mini lacrosse starter sets, look for netting made from weather-resistant materials like nylon or polyester. UV protection ensures the netting won’t degrade or lose integrity when left outside.

Dense knotting and reinforced stitching along the edges keep netting secured to the frame even after repeated impacts. Check that the mini lax nets don’t have loose or uneven stitches that could tear.

Premium netting from brands like Maverik and STX use higher mesh counts for excellent ball rebound and shot absorption. More stitching intersections absorb impact to reduce strain and potential holes.

Attachment points are key stress points, so mini lacrosse goal nets with reinforced binding along the top, sides and bottom last longer. Steel crimped edges provide the most durability.

Mini lacrosse nets must play through all weather – sun, wind, rain and snow. Water-resistant coatings cause moisture to bead up and roll off the mesh to limit sagging.

For longer net life, take time to inspect for damage and repair small holes promptly. Carry spare netting or repair kits to games to minimize downtime between practices and scrimmages.

Setting up your mini lacrosse nets away from trees and fences can reduce accidental tears too. Choose flat layouts when possible to avoid sagging mesh.

Carefully transporting folded goals in bags and proper net storage keeps the mesh taut and centered in the frame. Storing mini lax nets indoors avoids year-round weathering.Investing a bit more upfront in durable, high-quality mini lacrosse nets ensures seasons of backyard play before needing replacement. And be sure to have kids treat the net with care for longevity.

Review Size Options for Lacrosse Sticks for Different Ages

Lacrosse stick sizing is an important consideration when buying a mini lacrosse set for your young athlete. Proper stick length helps kids develop skills efficiently as they gain experience.

Many top youth brands size their lacrosse sticks by age, going from small sizes for ages 4-5 up to full regulation sticks. The shafts range from 20 inches to the maximum 60 inch length.

Very young kids do best with sticks sized 20-30 inches to match their height and arm span. Mini shafts allow easy scooping and help light sticks feel balanced.

Ages 6-8 benefit from 30-40 inch shafts as their coordination and mechanics improve. Intermediate lengths promote proper cradling and checking techniques.

Youth players 9+ can advance to 40-50 inch sticks approaching regulation size. Longer shafts improve reach and passing leverage as skills progress.

For teens playing full field lacrosse, 52-60 inch shafts allow maximum passing range needed in the midfield and attack positions.

Stick heads also come in a range of widths suited for different ages and positions. Wider heads help young kids with catching and accuracy.

Narrower heads support quicker passing and shot mechanics. Defensive heads widen for checking range. Goalies use oversized heads for maximum blocking coverage.

Adjustable length shafts are convenient for dialing in fit as kids grow season to season. Remove end caps to reveal the inner shaft and extend length as needed.

No matter the age, a correctly sized lacrosse stick improves ball control, handling and shooting accuracy. Review sizing charts to match stick size to your player’s age and skills.

Explain benefits of soft lacrosse balls for safety

Lacrosse is an exciting sport that is gaining popularity, especially among youth. As kids start to pick up lacrosse sticks for the first time, safety should be a top concern for parents. One simple way to reduce injury risk in lacrosse is to use soft lacrosse balls, especially when just starting out.

Standard lacrosse balls are made of solid rubber and can be extremely hard. Getting hit with one of these balls, especially at high speeds, can really hurt and potentially cause bruises, welts, and other injuries. This is why soft lacrosse balls are recommended for beginning and youth players.

Soft lacrosse balls are made of foam, rubber, or other materials that compress on impact. They have some “give” to them when caught or picked up. The main benefit is that they do not sting or inflict as much pain when they make contact with the body. This makes them ideal for developing stick skills and confidence when passing, catching, scooping, and cradling.

Using soft lacrosse balls helps take the fear out of the sport for kids just learning. They’ll be less afraid of the ball and more willing to jump into drills and engage with the play. Soft balls build ball control skills with less risk of injury during errant passes and wild shots.

Another advantage of soft lacrosse balls is that they move slower than harder balls. This gives players more time to react, especially when catching passes or defending shots. The slower speed makes it easier to track the ball and work on fundamentals like footwork, scooping technique, cradling, and accuracy.

While advanced players eventually need to work with standard balls, soft lacrosse balls have benefits at all levels. They can help refine stick skills with less impact on the hands. Soft balls are also great for off-season training, backyard play, and shadowing drills when you don’t need game-level velocity.

Choosing the Right Soft Lacrosse Balls

When equipping your young lacrosse player, look for balls marketed as soft, rubber, or bounce-back balls. Many companies like Brine, Maverik, STX, and Warrior make beginner lacrosse sets with soft balls included.

Soft lacrosse balls comply with new safety standards from US Lacrosse and the NCAA focused on reducing concussions and injuries. Approved balls should have a label stating “Meets NOCSAE Standard.” This means the ball compresses and rebounds within certain limits.

The main options when selecting soft lacrosse balls include:

Foam balls – Very lightweight with a soft, squishy feel. Best for developing stick skills.
Rubber balls – Heavier and more durable than foam. Closest to a real lacrosse ball.
Bounce-back balls – Made of durable rubber but compress significantly on impact.
Practice balls – Designed for shooting drills. Softer and slower than game balls.

The right choice depends on your child’s age, skill level, and how the balls will be used. Very young players may do best with foam balls before moving up to rubber practice balls. Bounce-back balls add a challenge as skills improve.

Using Soft Lacrosse Balls Safely

While soft lacrosse balls reduce injury risk compared to harder balls, some precautions should still be taken:

Wear protective gear like helmets, gloves, and eyewear.
Do not shoot at close range or at anyone not wearing gear.
No bare-handed catching, especially beginners.
Teach safe play of ground balls – no pushing or dangerous checks.
Stop play immediately if balls are being misused.

Coaches and parents need to instill safety-conscious habits right from the start. With proper precautions, soft lacrosse balls allow developing players to build skills, confidence, and love for the sport.

The Right Mini Lax Set for Beginners

Looking to get your kid into lacrosse this year? A mini lax set is a great way to start developing skills and see if your young athlete takes to the fastest game on two feet.

Mini lax sets are designed for backyard play and typically include a few soft lacrosse balls, a mini stick, and a pop-up goal. The smaller sizing helps little hands learn to throw, catch, scoop, and shoot before moving up to full field lacrosse.

When choosing a mini lax set, look for the following features:

Adjustable mini stick – Allows the stick to grow with your child. Look for telescoping handles.
Soft lacrosse balls – Reduce impact and injury risk. Foam or rubber balls are best for beginners.
Portable pop-up goal – Quickly sets up in the yard for shooting practice.
Carrying bag – Makes it easy to tote the set to the park or a friend’s house.
Age guidelines – Help select the right set for your player’s needs.

For versatility, look for a mini lax set that includes multiple types of soft balls. A set with foam, rubber, and bounce-back balls will allow skills to progress.

Sets made by lacrosse brands like Maverik and STX are ideal for safety and durability. Their sets factor in key needs for young players based on age and stage.

The Maverik Mini Lacrosse Set, for example, has a 21-35 inch stick perfect for kids ages 5 to 8. It comes with four soft lacrosse balls and a carrying case. The pop-up goal and push-button assembly also make it easy to practice anytime.

Starting off with a scaled-down mini lax set allows young athletes to gain confidence in lacrosse fundamentals before transitioning to a full field. Proper protective gear is still a must, even with soft balls and mini sticks. But with the right set and supervision, you can give your child a safe and fun intro to this great sport.

Highlight need for protective gear like helmets and gloves

Lacrosse is an exhilarating sport with fast-paced gameplay. Players scoop, pass, catch, and shoot the ball with high velocity and quick sticks. With rubber balls and metal shafts constantly in motion, safety needs to be a top concern.

That’s why protective gear like helmets and gloves are absolute necessities in lacrosse. Players at all levels, from youth to college and pro, suit up in specialized padding and guards to prevent injuries.

Lacrosse has one of the highest injury rates among high school sports. The speed of play combined with the use of sticks, balls, and physical contact make injuries likely. Everything from minor bruises to concussions and fractures can result without proper protection.

Mandatory protective gear for safe lacrosse play includes:

Helmet – Protects the head from direct ball and stick impacts.
Gloves – Cushion hands from checks and passes.
Arm pads – Shield arms from slashes and shots.
Shoulder pads – Guard the chest, shoulders, and back.
Mouthguard – Prevents dental and mouth injuries.

Goalies require even more padding like chest protectors due to increased ball velocity. While optional, many players also wear padded shorts, rib pads, and eyewear for additional protection.

Why Helmets Are Non-Negotiable

Lacrosse helmets are specifically engineered to protect players from head and facial injuries. They cushion the impact of checks, accidental cross-checks, and errant shots.

Helmets significantly reduce the forces transmitted to the head on impact. They distribute and absorb energy through the shell, liner, and facemask. Advanced designs provide even better concussion prevention.

US Lacrosse and other governing bodies mandate helmet use at all levels of organized lacrosse – from youth teams through college. Requiring helmets aims to minimize traumatic brain injuries that can have lasting consequences.

Wearing a properly fitted helmet with chinstrap securely fastened is the only way to safely play such an intense contact sport. Attempting to play lacrosse without a helmet risks serious or even fatal head trauma.

Gloves Protect Hands Vital to Play

Lacrosse relies heavily on stick skills requiring well-protected hands. Players must tightly grip sticks and absorb the impact of 90+ mph shots.

Specialized lacrosse gloves shield hands and wrists from injury. Features include:

Padded palms and fingers
Exterior plastic guards
Integrated wrist support
Reinforced stitching
Moisture-wicking materials

Gloves allow developing players to catch passes and take shots during practice without fear of pain. More advanced athletes depend on gloves to withstand pro-level ball speeds and physical play.

Tight-fitting gloves also improve stick control for cradling, scooping, passing, and shooting. A snug fit transmits feel while still protecting vulnerable fingers and hands.

Forgoing gloves makes it too easy to get injured from routine play. Players risk broken fingers, injured wrists, and excessive ball sting without proper hand protection.

Start Safety Early with Mini Gear

Looking to get your kid into lacrosse this year? Along with a mini lax set, invest in basic protective gear to keep them safe.

Mini lacrosse equipment is sized for young players first developing skills. Starter sets include adjustable helmets, padded gloves, and arm guards to protect growing bodies.

At a minimum, every new player needs:

Helmet with facemask
Pair of padded gloves
Elbow pads
Mouthguard

Additional recommended gear includes shoulder pads, protective cups or girdles, and shin guards. Goalies need full chest protection as well.

When fitting mini gear, make sure it offers a snug, comfortable fit but allows full mobility. Loose or bulky pads may hinder movement and won’t properly absorb impacts.

Brands like Maverik, STX, and Warrior design protective gear with the safety needs of young athletes in mind. Their mini sets are affordable, adjustable, and tested for compliance with industry standards.

The right mini lacrosse equipment instills safe habits from the start. Protecting hands, arms, and heads should be second nature, even during backyard practice sessions. This ensures kids develop skills while also learning to love the sport of lacrosse.

Talk about mini lacrosse goals that fold up for easy storage

Getting your kid interested in lacrosse starts with easy access to gear for practice anytime. Mini lacrosse goals that quickly fold up for storage are ideal for honing shooting skills in the backyard or neighborhood park.

Full-size lacrosse goals are fixed steel frames anchored into the ground. While essential for games, these goals are impractical for casual practice. That’s where portable pop-up mini goals come in.

Mini lacrosse goals offer key advantages for developing players:

Lightweight foldable design
Fits in car trunks and storage closets
Sets up and breaks down in minutes
Easy to transport and store

The small size and portability of mini goals maximizes shooting opportunities. Kids can take target practice whenever inspiration strikes without being limited by trip logistics.

Choosing a Foldable Mini Goal

When selecting a folding mini goal, durability and stability are key. Look for robust materials that won’t easily bend or topple over.

Ideal features include:

Steel or composite frame
Spring-action foldable design
Wide base for stability
Net and frame attach securely
Carrying case included

Trusted sports brands like Brine, Maverik, and STX design mini goals tested for safety and durability. Their foldable goals stand up to regular use but pack up tight.

Foam or plastic mini goals may be cheaper but sacrifice stability and longevity. Investing in a quality metal frame ensures seasons of steady backyard practice.

Setting Up Safely

While foldable for transport, mini lacrosse goals need careful setup to prevent tipping when in use.

Follow these safety steps:

Unfold frame completely until locked.
Spread legs into widest base position.
Push down on frame to firmly plant in grass.
Attach net securely to avoid choking hazards.
Check goal stability before each use.

Additionally, teach kids to never hang, climb, or pull on the net or frame. Active outdoor play requires close adult supervision.

With sturdy assembly, the mini goal should not budge when balls strike the net at high speeds. This simulates game-like shooting for honing accuracy.

Easy Storage and Transport

The true beauty of a foldable mini lacrosse goal is hassle-free portability. When play time is over, the goal collapses down for storage or travel.

To break down, simply:

Detach netting and stash in carry bag.
Release foldable locking mechanisms.
Collapse legs into closed position.
Store in carry case and transport.

The collapsed goal will easily fit in a car trunk or closet. Some goals fold down small enough to slip into a backpack or oversized sports bag.

Quick assembly and takedown make it convenient to set up goals anywhere outdoors. Kids can take target practice in backyards, driveways, parks and fields across town.

Complete the Backyard Practice Set

Looking to get your kid into lacrosse this year? Along with a mini stick and soft lacrosse balls, a foldable mini goal completes the backyard practice set.

Portable pop-up goals allow young players to take aim anytime inspiration strikes. Frequent shooting strengthens scoring skills and develops accuracy.

Trusted brands like Brine, Maverik, STX, and Warrior design durable goals tested for safety and longevity. Look for metal frames with composite materials for best stability.

The Maverik Bounce Back Mini Goal, for example, has a steel frame and folds down into an included carrying bag. Its 36″ x 36″ exposed net is appropriately sized for mini sticks.

With a mini lacrosse set and portable goal, your aspiring athlete can hone their game in the convenience of your own backyard. Frequent practice builds tangible skills and passion for lacrosse!

Compare top mini lacrosse set brands like Maverik and STX

Looking to equip your young athlete with their first lacrosse set? Trusted sports brands like Maverik and STX offer high-quality mini lacrosse sets designed with beginners in mind.

When comparing top mini lax set brands, key factors include:

Reputation for well-designed gear
Sets catered to specific age ranges
Use of durable, safety-tested materials
Availability of replacement parts
Positive reviews from parents

Brands like Maverik and STX check these boxes with their beginner-friendly mini lacrosse sets.

Maverik Mini Lacrosse Sets

Maverik is a leading manufacturer of lacrosse equipment for all levels. They offer mini lacrosse sets designed specifically for age 5-8 or age 7-10 players.

Key features of Maverik mini sets include:

Adjustable mini lacrosse stick
Rubber lacrosse balls
Pop-up style goals
Protective eyewear
Mesh carrying bag

Maverik’s sets promote safety with rubber balls unlikely to injure or intimidate. The 21″ to 35″ adjustable stick grows with your child’s skills. Mini goals and eyewear round out the package for backyard practice.

Parents praise Maverik for making sets that get young kids excited about lacrosse. The included instructional DVDs also provide tips for helping them develop skills.

STX Mini Lacrosse Sets

STX is another leading lacrosse brand designing beginner-friendly mini sets. Their sets cater to age ranges from 5-8 and up through 12+.

STX mini lax sets include:

Fully-assembled mini stick
Rubber lacrosse balls
Pop-up goals
Equipment carrying bag
Youth goggles

The lightweight 20”-30” mini sticks help young players learn to cradle, pass, catch, and shoot. Soft rubber balls reduce ball sting. The portable goal encourages shooting practice anywhere.

Parents give high marks to STX mini sets for enhancing backyard fun. Kids can improve hand-eye coordination while burning off energy.

Choosing the Right Set

When selecting a mini lacrosse set from leading brands, choose age-appropriate gear.

For very young kids around 5-6, pick a set with a 20-25” stick and soft foam balls. Prioritize safety and a gentle introduction.

Around age 7-9, upgrade to a longer adjustable stick and rubber balls to develop skills. Add protective accessories like gloves and eyewear.

Sets for older ages 9-12 incorporate advanced features like composite shafts. Gear starts resembling regulation equipment.

Both Maverik and STX mini sets provide age guidelines for choosing the right kit. Investing in the right size gear ensures a fun and successful start in lacrosse.

Set the Stage for Lacrosse Love

A mini lacrosse set from a leading brand like Maverik or STX is the perfect way to gauge your child’s interest in the sport.

With sizes tailored specifically for young players, mini sets remove intimidation factor. Kids as young as 5 can start developing a love for lacrosse in the backyard with safe equipment.

As skills progress, kids will be eager to graduate to full lacrosse gear. Starting out mini allows confidence to grow at their own pace.

Top brands understand how to inspire future stars. Give your kid the tools to succeed with a properly fitted mini lax set this season!

List pros of starting lacrosse training in the backyard

Looking to introduce your kid to lacrosse this season? Starting with backyard practice using a mini lacrosse set has many advantages over jumping right into organized team play.

Backyard training allows for:

A low-pressure introduction
Developing comfort and confidence
Plenty of repetition to build skills
Convenient and accessible practice
Fun family participation

By learning the basics at home before joining a team, young athletes set the stage for success in lacrosse.

Low Pressure Skill Building

For a kid new to lacrosse, joining a team with complex drills and experienced players can feel intimidating. Backyard sessions remove pressure while introducing skills.

With just family watching, kids can get comfortable with:

Properly holding the stick
Cradling the ball while moving
Picking up ground balls
Catching and throwing
Taking shots on goal

Repetition in a judgment-free zone builds muscle memory critical to lacrosse success. Kids gain confidence without fear of letting teammates down.

Accessible Practice Time

Team sports require scheduling practices around others’ availability. With backyard sessions, kids can grab their stick anytime.

Quick mini-practices also keep skills sharp between team events. Frequent repetition ingrains proper technique.

Easy access encourages more time developing skills. Kids gain an advantage entering team play with solid fundamentals.

Family Involvement

Backyard lacrosse encourages family participation. Parents, siblings, and others can engage with kids learning the sport.

Family members can:

Gently toss balls to work on catching
Provide tips and encouragement
Initiate ground ball competitions
Act as mock defenders

Kids have fun showing off new tricks. Shared family time strengthens bonds.

Sets the Stage for Team Success

When ready to transition to organized lacrosse, kids with strong backyard skills have an edge. Basic stick handling becomes second nature.

Coaches can focus on strategy rather than fundamentals. Kids feel part of the team quicker by already possessing field-ready skills.

Starting in the backyard builds proficiency and confidence optimal for taking on team challenges.

Backyard Practice Inspires Passion

Frequent accessible practice in the backyard breeds passion for lacrosse. With their own gear, kids play simply for the love of the game.

Seeing skills dramatically improve with self-directed practice inspires inner drive. Athletes develop devotion to excel that benefits any sporting endeavor.

Nurture your child’s interest in lacrosse this season with compact practice sets for use anywhere. Their skills and passion will grow by backyard leaps and bounds!

Describe how mini lax sets build hand-eye coordination

Looking to get your kid into lacrosse this year? Mini lax sets are a great way to start developing critical hand-eye coordination for excelling in the sport.

Mini lacrosse sets include scaled-down sticks, soft balls, and portable goals perfect for honing eye-hand connection and reaction time.

Importance of Hand-Eye Coordination

Quick hands and reflexes are essential in lacrosse. Players must sync hand movements with eyes to perform skills like:

Catching and controlling passes
Scooping up ground balls
Dodging checks and defenders
Cradling the ball while running
Shooting on net under pressure

Sharp hand-eye coordination gives players an edge in ball control and reaction time.

Mini Gear Trains Reaction Time

A mini stick and balls accelerate development of hand-eye coordination.

Just like dribbling a basketball or catching a baseball, controlling the lacrosse ball improves reaction skills. Mini gear allows beginners to:

Get used to the size and feel of sticks and balls
Focus on proper hand positioning and technique
Practice tracking balls in air and on ground
Build reflexes through repetition

Frequent short practice sessions ingrain quick hands critical for lacrosse success.

Challenges Improve Coordination

Simple drills with mini equipment hone hand-eye quickness.

Fun practice activities include:

Playing catch with family members
Quick-stick passing against a wall
Solo fast breaks with dodges and shots
Shooting contests for accuracy
Competing for ground balls

As skills progress, introduce agility obstacles, defenders, and timed drills to take coordination up a notch.

Varying practice challenges prevents boredom while developing fast hands and sharp reflexes.

Sets the Stage for True Lacrosse

Preparing with mini equipment trains muscle memory and confidence before stepping onto the field.

With solid stick skills, new players can hit the ground running. Focus shifts from basics to strategy and team play.

Strong hand-eye foundation prevents fumbling as the game speeds up. Reaction time improves with practice anywhere using mini gear.

Develop your child into a true lacrosse athlete starting with hand-eye training this season. Sharpen skills now for future success!

Share tips for setting up a backyard mini lacrosse field

Looking to create your own mini lacrosse practice space right at home? With a few simple supplies, you can set up a backyard field for stick skills, shooting, and scrimmages.

Use these tips to make a DIY mini lacrosse setup:

Map Out Boundaries

First, assess your yard space to determine the maximum area for your field. Use cones, flags, chalk, or paint to mark the boundaries.

Aim for about 30×15 yards but adapt for your specific space. This allows room for drills up and down the “field.”

Mark end lines and sidelines just like a regulation lacrosse box. You can even split it into miniature offensive, defensive, and midfield zones.

Set Up Goals

No lacrosse field is complete without goals! Portable pop-up style mini goals are perfect for backyard use. Look for regulation 4’x4’ sizing.

Place them inside the end lines facing each other. Secure them in place by staking down the bases.

For more goal options, use cones, buckets, or build wooden goals of any size.

Add Creases

Use chalk, tape, or paint to mark rectangular goal creases about 3’x3’ in front of each goal. Help young players learn proper positioning by defending the crease.

For a regulation look, add side lines to connect the creases into a continuous circle around the goals.

Mark Center Spot

Indicate the center of the field with an “X” at midfield. Use this for lining up ground balls or faceoffs to start play.

Challenge kids to score within 5 seconds from a center faceoff for quickness drills.

Safety First

Check that boundary lines keep players far enough from fences, structures, or hazards. Clear any rocks or debris from the playing surface.

Set family rules like no body contact allowed. Require wearing protective eye shields too.

Proper gear like mini gloves and helmets is still essential, even for casual backyard play.

Have Fun!

Once field markings are set, it’s go time! Run drills up and down the field or scrimmage with family members.

Add mini cones for weaving, agility ladders for footwork, or wall targets for shooting. Get creative with your own backyard drills!

A DIY mini lacrosse setup inspires extra practice. Don’t forget the post-practice snacks too!

Suggest fun mini lacrosse drills and games for kids

A mini lacrosse set opens up a world of drills and games for your young athlete. Make practice fun with these engaging activities perfect for the backyard.

Pass and Catch

This basic drill develops passing and catching skills.

Face a partner 5-10 feet apart
Take turns tossing soft balls back and forth
Emphasize proper hand positioning and form
Gradually increase distance between players

Try catching with one hand or quickly dropping balls to ground and scooping back up.

Wrap-Around

Improves stick moves and ball control

Start with ball in top of stick head
Rotate stick around body to cradle ball
Pass ball to other hand and wrap it around the other way

Do this while moving and incorporate dodges and pivots. Have contests to see who can go longest without dropping.

Goal Shooting

For accuracy practice:

Take shots on goal from different angles and distances
Call out target zones to aim for
Challenge yourself with obstacle courses dribbling closer

Do rapid fire shots or timed rounds to increase intensity.

Ground Ball Scramble

Fun ground ball competition:

Player drops ball and yells “Loose ball!”
Other players run and dive for ball
Winner keeps possession

Stress safe play – no pushing each other or stick checks. Take turns going for the ground ball.

Dodgeball

Lacrosse twist on classic game:

Use soft balls as dodgeballs
Cradle and throw balls at other team
Catch throws to get players back in

Emphasize sportsmanship and rotate teammates often. Great for improving throws and reaction time.

Keep things fun above all else! Drills and games build skills while stoking passion for lacrosse.

Recommend ages and skill levels mini lacrosse sets work best for

Mini lacrosse sets are a great way to introduce young athletes to the sport, but picking the right set is key. Lacrosse brands size gear for specific age ranges and skill levels.

Ages 5-7

At ages 5-7, kids are just learning basic motor skills and hand-eye coordination. The focus should be on safety and fun.

Look for:

20-25” mini stick
Extra soft foam balls
Lightweight plastic goals
Simple passing and catching

Keep drills and games simple. Provide lots of encouragement and avoid strict correction.

Ages 7-9

Around age 7-9, kids can handle more complex drills and rules. Sets help expand stick skills.

Look for:

Adjustable stick with 25-35” range
Soft rubber balls
Pop-up style goals
Cradling, scooping, passing skills

Introduce passing techniques, shot mechanics, and basic positioning. Keep it fun and active.

Ages 9-12

In this age range, kids are prepped for organized team play. Sets mimic real gear.

Look for:

Composite or metal shafts
Training balls rebounding like real balls
Netted goals with shooting targets
Position-based drills

Focus shifts to technique, footwork, and game strategy. Prepare athletes for competitive middle or high school lacrosse.

Beyond Age Sets

While age guidelines provide a useful starting point, also consider your child’s:

General coordination and athleticism
Focus and ability to follow directions
Skill catching and throwing other balls
Competitive drive

These factors may bump them up into an older skill set earlier. Closely observe their progress to pick the optimal challenges.

With the right mini lacrosse set, young athletes build a foundation for lifelong lacrosse skills and passion!

Provide links to top-rated mini lacrosse set options to buy online

Looking to purchase a mini lacrosse set to get your young athlete started in the sport? Here are some of the top-rated options available online:

Maverik Mini Lacrosse Set

This adjustable set from Maverik includes a mini stick, soft rubber balls, folding goal, and carrying bag. Ideal for ages 5-8.

View on Amazon

STX Mini Player Pack

STX’s starter set comes with a mini stick, balls, goal, and mesh bag. Tailored for ages 7-10.

View at Dick’s Sporting Goods

Brine Mini Lacrosse Bundle

This Amazon bundle from Brine provides a full range of mini gear for beginners.

View on Amazon

Franklin Mini Lacrosse Set

An affordable starter set from Franklin with adjustable stick, balls, and pop-up goal.

View at Target

Warrior Mini Ninja Lacrosse Set

Warrior’s set caters to ages 6-8 with goal, soft balls, and an 18” mini stick.

View at Lacrosse Monkey

Compare features and reviews to select the ideal mini lacrosse set for your young athlete’s skill level and age. Have fun!