What is Small Ball?
Small ball means that the kids will play on a smaller field (approximately 60 x 35 yds) than the regulation fields of 110 x 60 yds. This sized field is more appropriate for the younger player’s lungs and the size of the legs. Regardless of the age of the player, small ball is the best way for kids to improve their lacrosse skills. We want to promote catching and throwing and movement; not wind sprints without the ball! On a smaller field, players are closer together, which promotes shorter passes, which in turn promotes easier catches, and thereby facilitates more quality play and enjoyment. In order to accomplish this we need to get away from 25 man rosters and large field play; where playing time is limited and touches on the ball are nearly non-existent. There is also more scoring in small ball by more players, which naturally makes the game more enjoyable and more interesting to learn. There is not a happier and more teachable kid than the one who just scored. With smaller rosters kids will get many opportunities to be on the field and thereby get the quality game touches that help develop their skills, but more importantly their self-esteem.
WHY GRADE BASED? We feel strongly that a grade based structure facilitates player development, improves the quality and consistency of the game, and allows players to remain with their classmates. The experience from other youth lacrosse programs that have gone grade based is positive and has typically led to increased total participation in the sport. Duxbury, Hingham, Norwell, Cohasset, Marshfield, Hanover, Lincoln-Sudbury, Medfield, and Concord are all grade base programs.
WHY A/B STRUCTURE? It is our belief that this format is more inclusive than exclusive. It allows players of all abilities to participate at a level that encourages development, builds confidence, and allows players to develop at their own pace. The fact is all kids mature differently.
WHO WILL EVALUATE PLAYERS? Teams will be selected based on evaluations AND input from prior season’s coaches. We will have a snapshot of the player’s current abilities as well as feedback from prior season with an emphasis on how coachable a player is and attitude.
WILL A PLAYER HAVE AN OPPORTUNITY TO PLAY ON THE A TEAM IF HE IS ORIGINALLY PLACED ON THE B TEAM? ABSOLUTELY YES. Our numbers will allow room for 2-4 players to play up on certain occasions. Does this mean they will not play on their regular team that week? NO, the player will play with his regular team.
