Welcome to another exciting year of Lacrosse!  We all look forward to a fun-filled season. Here are a few tips that will help make the season enjoyable and rewarding:

Objectives for this Season

The main objectives of the Pack are:

1. That the players learn good sportsmanship

2. That the players learn the fundamentals of the game of Lacrosse

3. That the players learn the value of teamwork and commitment

4. Most of all that the players have FUN

The primary objective is NOT winning. Character building, Sportsmanship, and learning the fundamentals will be stressed throughout the season. Our main goal should be to have all the players want to come back and play again next year.

Coaches

The coaches are volunteers who want to help out the best they can to grow the sport that they are so passionate about. Most are busy with work, travel and family and can not always be there for every practice or game.  We ask that you value the contribution that these volunteers are making to the organization and your child.  
 

Players & Positions

The players will experience playing a variety of positions this year (both on offense and defense). However, there may be times when you feel that your child is not playing enough or is not playing a certain position enough. While these feelings are common, especially in lacrosse, please keep in mind that the coaches face many challenges. Addressing players who differ in age, maturity, and ability while planning a Rep program can be quite difficult. While the main goal of the season is not winning, we still want to be competitive and not put a child in a situation that they are unprepared or uncomfortable and

thus become discouraged.

 

Referees

ALL Lacrosse Referees ARE PROFESSIONALLY TRAINED. It is quite difficult for referees to see everything on the field.  They will miss things. Whatever happens, the referees should not be verbally harassed by the players, coaches or spectators. Such harassment sets a bad example for the players and is in contradiction to our core values of Innisfil Minor Lacrosse Association. 
 

Sportsmanship

The league will be placing an extra emphasis on sportsmanship this year. Parents may be asked to acknowledge a Code of Conduct. The league has stated that ANY violations of the values of the organization will be handled confidentially but also with progressive "coaching conversations".  

 

Safety

ALL players must wear ALL of their protective equipment during practices and games.  If you are unsure about equipment is approriate please ask your team's trainer.  They will be happy to help ensure your child is safe while participating in lacrosse.  Players are discouraged from over aggressive and dangerous play. Your child will be specifically instructed on how to play safely! However, sometimes the kids get overly enthusiastic and these prohibited activities will in fact happen. We, as coaches and referees, will do our best to avoid senseless aggression and explain to the players the rules and safety precautions that need to be followed.

Commitment

We all know how families get busy, schedules fill up and at times you may encounter scheduling conflicts. However, please make every effort to bring your son or daughter to every game and practice.  When your child is unable to attend please make sure you communicate this with your coach.  

Schedule

Please review the game schedule. Although some coaches may request more pre-game warm-up time, we suggest that you arrive NO LESS than 40 minutes before the start of the game so that our athletes can properly stretch and warm-up with their trainer. 

 

Respect for the Sport

We ask that all of our athletes wear their pre-game attire (black Wolfpack golf shirt and khaki shorts) to all games.  By doing so, players demonstrate their dedication to their team and show respect for the sport that we all love so much.  Apparel can be ordered through our Director of Apparel, Ashley Tomaszewski) or visit the apparel tab on the website. 

 

Remember it's only a game

Feel free to talk to the coaches if you don't understand something.  Your bench staff, and even the Board of Directors are here to help everyone, including families, understand and love the game. Sometimes a brief chat with a coach can avoid any potential misunderstandings or ill feelings. CHEER LOUDLY for your players and respect the efforts of your opponents as well. They appreciate the encouragement. Most of all remember they are only children and need you to be positive and affirming.