Are you thinking of getting your child to start playing lacrosse but don't know exactly when is the best lacrosse age to start?
With the increasingly popular sport becoming more accessible to all ages each year, it's essential to understand how lacrosse can benefit different age groups.
In this post, we will discuss what our experts think is the ideal age range for starting to play lacrosse and provide tips on how parents can ensure their child has a great experience learning the game.
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Take Away Key Points:
What is the Ideal Age to Start Playing Lacrosse?
The ideal age to start playing lacrosse depends on a few factors, including the physical and cognitive development of the individual.
In general, most experts would suggest that age 6 or 7 is the optimal time to begin learning the sport.
At such a young age, children have the coordination and motor skills needed to understand and execute proper techniques while still being agile enough to keep up with the pace of play.
With that said, introducing your young child to lacrosse earlier than age 7 can also be beneficial; it will help them get familiar with basic rules and terms early on, allowing them to develop more naturally over time.
What Are the Benefits of Early Lacrosse Training?
To begin playing lacrosse early can provide children with a wealth of benefits. We listed a few of the numerous advantages you can expect once your kid starts early training.
1. Developing lacrosse IQ at an early age
Developing a strong lacrosse IQ is vital for lacrosse beginners and youth leagues of all ages.
Early training can help children develop and refine their knowledge and understanding of the game, from the basics of the rules to more complex strategies.
With proper instruction and guidance, developing lacrosse IQ early can give kids a competitive edge and fundamental skills when competing on the lacrosse field.
It also helps to equip them with problem-solving skills, encouraging communication and cooperation in a team setting. Furthermore, learning lacrosse helps instill good sportsmanship in young players and prepares them for success on and off the field.
2. Physical development & social benefits
Beginning lacrosse early has many benefits and significant differences in social and physical ability.
Physically, contact sport helps build strength, stamina, and agility while providing a safe, healthy outlet for energy. It also teaches kids necessary skills such as hand-eye coordination and motor control.
On the social side of things, it helps children form relationships with teammates and coaches, learn how to work together as part of a team, and develop problem-solving and basic skills that carry over into their daily lives.
Additionally, it boosts self-esteem by teaching kids that hard work can lead to success. Starting lacrosse at an early age can have lasting positive impacts on a child's development.
3. Sense of responsibility
Starting lacrosse at 7 can help kids develop a strong sense of responsibility.
With the guidance of experienced coaches and staff, young players learn the importance of taking care of themselves on and off the field — from following safety protocols to managing their time when it comes to studying, practicing, and competing.
This heightened sense of responsibility can also extend to their attitudes toward team leadership, understanding that they must be accountable for their actions as part of a group.
Ultimately, developing this attitude during the formative years sets young players up for success later in life.
4. Developing basic stick skills
If you have played lacrosse before, you know the importance of an early start that allows kids to develop solid lacrosse stick skills. Players learn basic techniques and fundamentals, such as passing and catching, cradling the ground balls, and shooting on goal.
With practice, these skills become instinctual and will provide a foundation for more advanced movements like dodges and defensive strategies.
As players progress in the sport, they can refine their lacrosse stick work by practicing game-like scenarios with their teammates or coaches — this helps create muscle memory that leads to improved performance.
All in all, starting lacrosse early allows young players to master their craft from the start.
Disadvantages of Starting Early Lacrosse Training
Similar to other sports choices, starting lacrosse too young can bring with it a set of unique disadvantages. While early participation may open the door to improved stick skills and an overall foundation for the sport, physical and mental risks come with engaging too soon.
First, young players may not have the maturity level or emotional development to handle the intense and competitive environment that comes with competition.
Additionally, due to the physicality of lacrosse, children may be at a greater risk for injury since their bodies are still developing.
Finally, suppose a child starts lacrosse too early. In that case, they might not develop good habits or the proper technique needed to master and enjoy the sport — this can lead to frustration and demotivation down the line, leading to a breaking point!
With these factors in mind, kids need to start playing when they're physically and emotionally ready.
Is There Such Thing as an 'Age-Limit' for a Team Sport?
Yes, there is an age limit for lacrosse team sports.
Depending on the region and locality, the minimum age requirement is usually between 8 and 12 years old for this exciting sport. Players younger than this may be allowed to participate in some form of lacrosse, such as organized clinics but are not eligible to compete in official team sports.
This encourages kids to develop skills through drills and practice rather than focus on competition until they reach a certain maturity level or physicality. Parents should work with the coaches in their locality to ensure that their child is adequately prepared for the demands of playing on a lacrosse team.
Additionally, most professional sports organizations, such as the NHL, NFL, or NBA, implement age restrictions for their players, with the accepted age range typically between 18 and 21.
How to Get Started in Lacrosse?
Getting started in lacrosse can be a great way to have fun, build skills and make friends.
1. Equipment is key
First of all, choose the right kind of equipment for your skill level and preferred position.
Having the right gear can help you grow in confidence and improve your performance.
Begin lacrosse by selecting a headpiece designed for younger players and a soft or lightweight lacrosse stick suitable for their size. Make sure your gloves and shoulder pads fit correctly and aren't too bulky for them to maneuver.
Appropriate footwear, such as cleats, should also be chosen to provide additional grip on the field. By investing in quality lacrosse equipment, young players will have everything they need to play safely and with increased skill.
2. Choose the right coach
Next, find an experienced coach or instructor to teach you the basics.
A dependable and experienced coach can guide fundamentals and reinforce proper techniques. Look for a coach who has experience working with younger lacrosse players, as they can adjust their teaching style to the young age group.
It's also important to find a coach who is patient and understanding of the specific needs of young athletes. With the right mentor, you can trust that your child will develop their skills with confidence and safe instruction.
3. Lacrosse league seek out
You can also look for lacrosse leagues in your area to find out about upcoming clinics, tournaments, and other opportunities to get involved.
Various lacrosse programs are available to youth players, including weekly leagues and specialized clinics.
Look for a program tailored to your child's age and skill level, such as beginner or intermediate. Such initiatives make it easier for young athletes to learn the basics of the sport and find their footing before joining competitive teams.
Additionally, these opportunities provide children with the necessary experience of playing with other kids and safe instruction from qualified coaches.
4. Practice makes perfect
Finally, practice regularly to build strength and agility before joining an official league or team. Then, with dedication and hard work, you'll soon be ready to start playing lacrosse at any level!
Lacrosse requires continuous practice and sufficient coordination. Frequent repetition and drills will help young players build strong foundations, improve their technique, and better understand the game.
Ensure that the drills are age-appropriate and challenging enough to keep your child engaged and motivated. Practicing regularly can also help children gain confidence with the ball, allowing them to make good decisions during competitive play.
FAQs
Can small kids play lacrosse?
Yes, small kids can play lacrosse! Youth lacrosse programs are designed to teach the basics of the sport and encourage a love of the game.
In addition, most leagues offer age-specific divisions to provide a safe and enjoyable atmosphere for all players, regardless of size.
Is 14 too old to start lacrosse?
No, 14 is not too old to start playing lacrosse! Many players have been successful in the sport when beginning later in life. However, at this age, it's important to find a coach or program that can offer personalized instruction and direction explicitly tailored for older beginners.
What are the benefits of starting early?
Starting early also allows more time to build muscle memory, refine skills and maximize their potential as a player.
Is 8th grade too late for lacrosse?
No, 8th grade is not too late to start lacrosse!
While younger players may have the advantage of more natural athleticism and coordination, there are still many benefits for those beginning at this age.
For example, an 8th grader can still enjoy the camaraderie of teammates and refine their skills with proper guidance.
Is it better to be tall or short for lacrosse?
In lacrosse, being tall can provide an advantage in certain aspects of the game. For example, taller players have a more extended reach, making it easier to defend and attack from greater distances.
But being short also has its advantages, with shorter players having quick reflexes and more agility when turning and change of direction.
How old are lacrosse players?
Lacrosse players can range in age from young children to adults, depending on the level of the game they are playing. At the highest professional levels, lacrosse players tend to be in their late twenties or early thirties. At the youth level, players typically range from ages 8 to 18.
What sport has the oldest average age?
According to studies, golf is the sport with the oldest average age. The average age of a golfer ranges from 44 to 55, depending on the type, of course they play at. This is followed closely by cycling, where the average age ranges from 40-60.
Tennis also has an older average age than most other sports, with players usually averaging between 30 and 45 years old.
At what age do most people stop playing lacrosse?
The age at which most people stop playing lacrosse varies depending on the level they play at.
Generally, high school and college players usually stop playing lacrosse around age 22 or 23. However, professional lacrosse players may continue to play well into their 30s, while recreational players usually retire around age 35.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there is no "best" lacrosse age to start playing. Players have different needs and goals in the sport, so it is important to stick with whatever works best for you.
Starting at an early age can ensure that young players develop a solid foundation of skills, while older players can still pick up the game and enjoy a rewarding experience.
Lacrosse has something for everyone, no matter what age they are!
