Lacrosse game day and tournaments: what to expect

Before game day

A calm game day starts the night before. Read the schedule, confirm the field location and arrival time and check what the team asked everyone to bring. Many programs send updates by email or an app, and a single missed message about a field change can ruin a morning. If something is not clear, send the coach a short, polite question rather than guessing.

The packing checklist

• Stick (labeled with your child's name) and any required protective gear, checked for fit and damage.
• Mouthguard, and eye protection or a helmet, depending on which version of lacrosse your child plays.
• Appropriate shoes for the field surface, as your league advises.
• Team jersey, shorts and socks, plus an extra shirt.
• Water bottle and a snack the family is comfortable with.
• Towel, sun protection or warm layers, depending on the weather.
• A folding chair or blanket for you.

For help with fit and which items are required, read the youth lacrosse equipment checklist.

Arrival and warm-up

Teams normally ask players to arrive before the game so the coach can take attendance, check equipment and run a warm-up. Early arrival also helps with parking, bathrooms and finding the team's spot. Many officials and coaches check protective gear before the game, so arriving with everything on or ready to put on helps. Staying calm in the parking lot matters too, because kids pick up on stress.

If you are new to the sport, game day can feel like entering a village with its own customs. Teams set up tents and chairs along the sidelines, kids tape sticks and trade stories, and parents quickly learn who is bringing the snacks. Do not be shy about introducing yourself to other families. Many a ride home or lost water bottle has been solved by a friendly parent who knew the ropes.

Check also whether your league has a team manager. This person often passes along changes, collects paperwork and coordinates snacks or team photos. Volunteering for small tasks is a great way to feel part of the team, even if you are new to lacrosse.

Tournaments and festivals

Some lacrosse programs play single games on weekends, while others play several games in a day, often called a tournament or festival. In general terms, a tournament has teams play multiple games against different opponents, sometimes with a bracket and sometimes with every team playing the same number of games. Rules about game length, running clocks and tiebreakers vary, and some events focus on fun and skill rather than standings. Always read the event information.

Long days: what to plan for

• Bring more water and food than seems necessary, and some shade or warm clothes.
• Plan rest between games and a spot where kids can sit and recharge.
• Pack a spare shirt and socks, as well as a bag for wet gear.
• Check the schedule often, since start times can shift when earlier games run long.

During the game

Find your seat on the side designated for spectators, and stay out of the team area. Cheer for effort, for good plays on either team and for teammates who try something new. Leave coaching to the coach and officiating to the officials. If your child is injured, let the coach and the team's medical staff, if there are any, take the lead, and wait for them to ask you onto the field. Parents who stay calm and positive make the team's environment better. Review our lacrosse sideline etiquette guide for more ideas.

Helping with nerves

First games bring butterflies for many kids. Arrive early so there is no rush, remind your child of one small goal (for example, call for the ball or hustle to every ground ball), and keep the mood light. If a child seems very anxious, talk quietly with the coach, who may be able to ease them in with a simple role. Avoid giving lots of last-minute instructions. A hug, a smile and a reminder to have fun usually does the most good.

Bringing siblings

Younger brothers and sisters often come along. Bring books, a ball and snacks for them, and keep them away from active play areas where sticks and balls are flying. A little planning helps parents watch the game and keeps everyone safe.

After the game

1. Thank the coach and officials, even after a loss.
2. Collect all gear and check for anything damaged or left behind.
3. Offer water and a snack, and let your child decompress before talking about the game.
4. Start with open questions such as "What was your favorite moment?" before talking about the score.
5. Wipe down and air out gear when you get home so it does not stay damp.

Weather and delays

Lacrosse is played outdoors in many conditions, and games can be delayed or canceled for lightning, heavy rain or unsafe fields. Programs usually have a weather policy and a way to announce changes, by email, text or an app. Learn how yours works before the first game, and keep a rain jacket and extra dry socks in the car. When play stops for weather, follow the officials' and coaches' instructions and move to a safe place right away.

Be patient with schedule changes. Volunteers are working hard to keep a full set of games on track, and a friendly attitude when plans shift makes the day better for everyone.

Common game-day mistakes

• Arriving at the last minute with missing gear.
• Forgetting water, food or sun protection on a long day.
• Giving instructions from the sideline that clash with the coach's.
• Talking about the game for the whole ride home instead of letting your child lead.
• Leaving without checking that the field and bench area are clean.

If you are brand new, read lacrosse rules for beginners before the first game so the action on the field makes sense, and use how to prepare for lacrosse season as your pre-season plan.

Sources and further reading

1. Parents and Youth US Lacrosse
2. Code of Conduct: US Lacrosse and the Positive Coaching Alliance US Lacrosse
3. Lacrosse HealthyChildren.org (American Academy of Pediatrics)

Links open in a new tab. Quotations are short excerpts, included with attribution for commentary. BlackForge Sports is not affiliated with or endorsed by the people or organizations named.

Frequently asked questions

What should my child bring to a lacrosse game?

A labeled stick, required protective gear, mouthguard, jersey, water and a snack, plus a towel and layers for the weather. Check your league's list.

How early should we arrive at a lacrosse game?

Follow your coach's instructions, which usually give time for check-in, gear checks and a warm-up.

What is a lacrosse tournament?

It is an event where teams play several games, sometimes in a bracket and sometimes with each team playing a set number of games. Formats vary.

How can I help my child on a long tournament day?

Bring extra water, food, shade or warm clothes, and plan rest between games. Check the schedule often because times can shift.

What should I say after a lacrosse game?

Start with open, positive questions and let your child lead the talk before getting to the score.