Lacrosse Guide

• In October 2023, the IOC officially voted to bring lacrosse back as a medal sport at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles—its first return since 1908

• The Olympic competition will use the Sixes format, showcasing both men’s and women’s tournaments, each with six national teams competing across July 24–29, 2028, at BMO Stadium in L.A.

• Sixes fits the Olympic model—compact, spectator-friendly, and globally accessible—all while honoring lacrosse’s Indigenous roots and modern rise

Field Lacrosse (Spring/Summer)

• Played outdoors, 10 players per team (boys) / 12 (girls)
• Larger field (football or soccer size)
• Includes offense, defense, middies, goalies

Box Lacrosse (Winter/Summer)

• Played indoors (often in hockey rinks with turf)
• 5v5 + goalies
• Very physical, tight spaces, fast-paced
• Popular in Canada, and growing in the U.S.

Sixes Lacrosse (Fall/Winter)

• 6v6 on a smaller field, Olympic style
• Fast, continuous play — short shot clocks, no face-offs after goals
• Designed for international play and development
• Will be the format for the 2028 Olympics

Some players love playing multiple sports — and we encourage that. It builds better athletes, prevents burnout, and keeps the game fun. Others live and breathe lacrosse — and that’s great too. There’s no one path to success, and we’re here to help each player find what works best for them.

General Breakdown

Fall

• Skill Development & Small-Sided Play
• Format: Sixes, clinics, local scrimmages, and travel team tune-ups
• Why it matters: A chance to work on stick skills, IQ, and conditioning in a fast-paced, low-pressure setting.

Winter

• Indoor Training & Exposure
• Format: Box lacrosse, indoor leagues, individual training, college recruiting showcases
• Why it matters: Great time for reps, refining mechanics, and being seen by college coaches at regional events.

Spring

• Official Team Season
• Format: High school or middle school season (depending on age and location)
• Why it matters: Core competitive season — real games, league standings, and state tournaments.

Summer

• Travel Teams & Tournaments
• Format: Travel club teams compete in weekend tournaments and showcases
• Why it matters: Big recruiting window; players compete against top regional/national talent and get noticed.