Registration Opening soon!

This is a recreational youth box lacrosse league for boys in grades 3–6 (Fall 2026 school year) held at the outdoor roller hockey rink at the Groton Public Library. Games will primarily take place on Saturday or Sunday afternoons/evenings under the lights, with the season beginning in mid-August and running through October.

This league is designed to provide a fun, fast-paced, low-commitment opportunity for players to continue developing their lacrosse skills during the fall while still being able to participate in other sports such as soccer and football. Box lacrosse emphasizes stick skills, creativity, spacing, quick decision making, and overall lacrosse IQ in a fun and exciting environment.

Players register individually and will be placed on balanced teams prior to the start of the season. We will do our best to keep players from the same towns or friend groups together when possible. Teams will play weekly games with a focus on development, competition, and fun.

The game and overall rules are very similar to field lacrosse, with a few key differences. There are no long poles, no offsides, substitutions happen on the fly similar to hockey, and all players play both offense and defense similar to basketball.

“… Lacrosse was the key in the development of the greatest scorer in hockey history.”

~ Quote from Walter Gretzky on his son Wayne Gretzky

What is box lacrosse?

Box lacrosse is a fast-paced version of lacrosse played in a smaller enclosed playing area, similar to a hockey rink. The game emphasizes stick skills, creativity, quick decision making, spacing, and overall lacrosse IQ.

Is this the same as field lacrosse?

Very similar. Most of the basic rules and skills are the same, but there are a few differences:

• No long poles, short sticks only
• No offsides
• Substitutions happen on the fly similar to hockey
• All players play both offense and defense similar to basketball

Who can register?

This league is open to boys in grades 3–6 for the Fall 2026 school year.

Do players need previous lacrosse experience?

No experience is required and players of all skill levels are welcome. That said, this is primarily a game-based league and there will not be a large focus on structured practices or individual skill instruction outside of in-game coaching and teaching. Players who are newer to lacrosse are absolutely encouraged to join, but parents should understand the format is designed more around playing and learning through live game experience.

When does the season take place?

The league is tentatively scheduled to begin in mid-August and run through October.

Where are games played?

Games will be played at the outdoor roller hockey rink at the Groton Public Library.

What days are games played?

Games will primarily take place on Saturday afternoons/evenings under the lights.

Are there practices?

The league is primarily game-based to keep the commitment level low and allow players to participate in other fall sports. Depending on registration numbers and volunteer coaches, optional clinic nights or scrimmages may be scheduled early in the season.

Can my child still play soccer or football?

Absolutely. One of the goals of this league is to allow kids to continue developing lacrosse skills during the fall while still being able to participate in other sports.

How are teams formed?

Players register individually and will be placed on balanced teams before the season begins. We will do our best to keep players from the same towns, schools, or friend groups together when possible, but balanced teams will remain the priority.

Can I request teammates?

Yes. There will be a section during registration where you can list teammate or team preferences. While we cannot guarantee all requests, we will do our best to accommodate them when possible.

What equipment is required?

Players will need:

• Lacrosse stick (short sticks only)
• Lacrosse helmet
• Mouthguard
• Shoulder pads
• Arm pads
• Gloves
• Athletic supporter/cup
• Sneakers or turf shoes (no cleats)

Optional:

• Rib pads
• Knee pads
• Shin guards

Why are cleats not allowed?

Games are played on a smooth concrete surface similar to an outdoor basketball court, so sneakers or turf shoes are required for safety and traction.

Is contact allowed?

Contact is limited. This is still lacrosse, so there will be physical play, picks, and defensive pressure, but the league will focus on skill development, safety, sportsmanship, and fun. No Body-checks, legal pushes and holds only.

Do players need a USA Lacrosse membership?

Yes. A current USA Lacrosse membership is required for insurance coverage.

Are parents needed to help coach?

Yes! We are always looking for parent volunteers to help coach teams, assist on the bench, manage substitutions, or help with league operations. No box lacrosse experience is necessary.

Who should I contact with questions?

Please contact Dolan (DJ) Simmons with any questions regarding the league, registration, coaching, or volunteering opportunities.