U13 Small Sided Competition Guidelines - League Athletics
U13 Small Sided Competition Guidelines
Age and developmentally appropriate lacrosse competition for boys playing in the U13 Age Classification
Our Vision We envision a future that offers people everywhere the opportunity to discover, learn, participate in, enjoy, and ultimately embrace the shared passion of the lacrosse experience.
About Athlete Development It is our sincere hope that by providing these competition guidelines to lacrosse coaches, parents, and program administrators, players across the country will have an opportunity to learn lacrosse in a way that is physically, cognitively, emotionally, and socially appropriate. We believe that this increases both the learning and fun for young athletes. When kids are having fun, they are learning and when they learn they improve. Age appropriate competitions will help young athletes reach their full potential, because they will… Learn Lacrosse Better Love Lacrosse More Stay in Lacrosse Longer
The Small Sided Competition Guidelines and contents herein are the exclusive property of US Lacrosse. Reproduction in whole or part is strictly prohibited. For reproduction requests, please contact US Lacrosse at (410)235-6882 Version 1.0 Published 12/1/2015
Philosophy of U13 Lacrosse U13 lacrosse is where young athletes are honing their technical skills and begin building the tactical skills needed in lacrosse. The children entering at this point have a vast difference in their physical and cognitive developments and the game they play should be designed to reinforce fundamental technical skills and practical tactical applications for playing lacrosse. Essentially, they are preparing to be competitors. Careful planning must be used to ensure that the environment is inclusive of all athletes, provides multiple opportunities for each athlete to “touch” the ball, encourages experimentation, and a progressive development of existing technical skills. Additionally, the technical skills they are honing, are now being applied to the tactical aspect of the game. Athletes should be coached to have a “Growth Mindset” by having effort praised ahead of results. With respect to the competition at this level, coaches, parents, and officials should emphasize: FUN Using technical skills in game situations Exploring and applying new tactical skills.
Age and Eligibility Player must be 13 years old or younger on August 31 of the year preceding competition. It is recommended that when multiple teams exist within a program, teams should consider the physical size, skill, and maturity level when selecting teams. At no time should players younger than 11 years of age be permitted to play at the U13 level. Ideally, players should be playing in single age classifications.
Playing Up or Down It is not recommended that players participate outside of their age classification due to the vast differences is physical and cognitive development. If program size allows, teams should be selected based on the physical size, skill, and maturity level of the athletes in a single age classification.
Recommended Roster Sizes Local administrators should strive to construct their teams with a player to coach ratio of 12:1. This ratio provides ample opportunity for all athletes to receive effective coaching. It is recommended that whenever possible teams do not have more than 15 or less than 12 players.
Coaches and Officials Coaches are not permitted on the field of play. They may roam the designated coaches box on their respective sideline. US Lacrosse recommends 2 certified officials on the field for every competition.
Field Dimensions and Specifications
The Goal 6x6 goals with securely affixed netting. The goal shall be centered within the goal crease.
The Goal Crease The crease shall have a 9’ radius and may be painted on the field or marked with flat disc cones.
Field Markings Given the multiple constraints that many programs encounter, no permanent or semipermanent markings are required by rule. Programs may elect to use flat disc cones in part or whole to designate the playing area. Whenever possible, existing lines on a field may be used to define boundaries, provided the field does not exceed 80x60 yards.
Field Players The U13 Competition is played by having 6 field players from each team on the field at a time and 1 legally equipped goalkeeper.
Goalkeepers Goalkeepers are required at the U13 level of play. Additionally, no player other than a legally equipped goalkeeper (by USL Youth Rules and Guidelines) may intentionally assume the role of goalkeeper.
Protective Equipment Players are required to wear full protective equipment at this level, as outlined in the US Lacrosse Youth Rules and Best Practices Guidebook.
Sticks Field Players Length: Short Sticks - 40”-42” Long Sticks – 52”-72” Stringing: 4-5 leather or synthetic thongs, 8-12 stitches or cross-lacing or mesh, max. Pocket: Depth is legal when the top of the ball remains above the bottom of the heads wall when placed in the pocket of a horizontal stick.
Goalkeepers Length: 40”-72”” Stringing: 6-7 leather and/or synthetic thongs, 8-12 stitches or cross-lacing or mesh, max. Pocket: Depth is legal when the ball moves freely in pocket and stick meets specifications outlined in the boys rule book.
The Ball The ball must meet NOCSAE specifications to be legal for play.
Competition Timing A competition will consist of four (4) 10-minute stopped time quarters, with a two minute break between each quarter and a 5 minute break between the 2 nd and 3rd quarters.
Timeouts Each team is permitted (2) non-consecutive two-minute timeouts per half and (1) twominute timeout per overtime period. Timeouts are not transferrable between halves or overtime periods.
Overtime Two four minute overtimes. If still tied, game ends in a tie.
Advancing the Ball Teams have 20 seconds to clear their defensive half of the field once gaining possession of the ball and 10 seconds to advance the ball into their offensive zone once crossing the midfield line.
Offensive 10 second count, defensive 20 second count.
Scorekeeping Scores are to be kept at this level of play.
Scrum Situations In the event that a loose ball cannot be quickly picked up due to multiple players in a “scrum,” the official shall stop play and award the ball via Alternating Possession rules.
Starting the Competition A coin-toss will be used to determine which team is defending which end of the field prior to the game. The winner of the toss can choose First Alternating Possession or choice of goal. Competitions begin with a face-off. The official will conduct the face off with one player from each team meeting at the center x. Teams will place one player on either of the wing lines. Each team must have two players behind the restraining line on their offensive end and 3 players behind the restraining line on their defensive end of the field. All players are released once possession has been established.
Restarting After a Goal is Scored Competitions begin with a face-off. The official will conduct the face off with one player from each team meeting at the center x. Teams will place one player on either of the wing lines. Each team must have two players behind the restraining line on their offensive end and 3 players behind the restraining line on their defensive end of the field. All players are released once possession has been established. In a penalty situation, the team with a player or player(s) in the penalty area will face-off man down. If they are more than 2 men down, the ball shall be awarded to the offended team at the center x.
Off-Sides A team is considered off-sides when they have more than 4 players (including any players in the penalty area) on their offensive side of the field or when they have more than 5 players (including any players in the penalty area) on their defensive side of the field.
Substitutions Coaches will conduct a whole-team substitution prior to a face-off or during other deadball situations. There are no live ball or “on the fly” substitutions permitted. This discourages specialization of positions and contributes to developing well-rounded lacrosse athletes.
Technical Fouls Goal Crease Violation No player from either team may enter the crease at any time, other than a legally equipped goalkeeper. A player may reach his stick into the crease for the sole purpose of collecting a loose ball. If the ball becomes ensnared in the outside of the goal, the official will blow the whistle and award the ball to the defensive team. Penalty: Current US Lacrosse Youth Rules Specifications.
Stalling The stalling rule is in effect for the last two minutes of play at the U13 level. The offensive team must keep the ball in the box or offensive zone if they have a 1 goal or greater lead. Penalty: Current US Lacrosse Youth Rules Specifications.
Failure to Advance Should a team fail to meet the requirements of advancing the ball the following penalty shall apply: Penalty: Current US Lacrosse Youth Rules Specifications..
Goalkeeper Count In the event of the goalkeeper gaining possession of the ball within his crease during a live-ball situation, the goalkeeper has 4 seconds to either exit the crease or pass the ball out of the crease to a member of his team. Penalty: Current US Lacrosse Youth Rules Specifications.
Goalkeeper Interference With one foot inside of his crease, and possession of the ball the goalkeeper is protected from checking of any type. Penalty: Current US Lacrosse Youth Rules Specifications.
Off Sides A team is considered off-sides when they have more than 4 players (including any players in the penalty area) on their offensive side of the field or when they have more than 5 players (including any players in the penalty area) on their defensive side of the field. Penalty: Current US Lacrosse Youth Rules Specifications.
Personal Fouls Slashing Full stick checking is permitted. Penalty: Current US Lacrosse Youth Rules Specifications.
Body Checking Full body checking is permitted. No take-out checks are allowed. Penalty: Current US Lacrosse Youth Rules Specifications.
Unsportsmanlike Conduct Players are expected to uphold the highest levels of sportsmanship at all times. Penalty: Current US Lacrosse Youth Rules Specifications.
About Coaching U13 Athletes KEY OBJECTIVES FOR SUCCESS Focus-Where we spend most of our time. Goals for this stage of development -What we are trying to achieve Player-centered environment-what it should look like
Honing athletes Technical and fundamental Tactical skills. To reinforce technical skills while learning and practicing tactical applications in a progressive system. Getting as many touches of the ball as possible. Fun, inclusive, accepting, engaging and positive. Focus on improvement and effort rather than outcome. Reinforce new and existing skills while learning to apply to tactics through small sided and engaging play and enjoyable practice. Opportunities to try new things. Growth mindset.
PLAYER DEVELOPMENT Athletic Development Technical (Skills) Development
Tactical (Strategy) Development
Psychological Development working to support athletes in these areas… Social-Behavioral Development-know that at this age they are…
Agility, footwork, dynamic balance, complex coordination, multidirectional speed, strength, core strength, flexibility. Consolidating and mastering all technical skills, exploring variations-- developing consistency under pressure. Mastering individual defensive skills. Beginning to develop positionspecific skills. Developing situational understanding of play up to 7 v 7; developing understanding of zones, proficient with riding and clearing, player to player defense. Working on space and time Love of the sport, focus, simple goal setting, self-motivation, confidence, learning to make decisions, developing selfreliance, understanding winning and losing. Respect. More independent, able to share, improved decision making ability. Desire independence and are building confidence. Peer group acceptance becomes important and physical competency plays a role in how one is perceived. Girls tend to form "cliques," boys have more broad team relationships.
PRACTICE Practice to Competition & Competition Specific Training Ratio** Primary Objective of Practice
Max Recommended Ratio (player:coach) Length of Sessions Frequency* Multi-Sport Participation-Sport and physical activity diversification-Other sports and activities.
70:30 Boys/60:40 Girls
To reinforce basic technical skills and introduce tactical components of the game through progressions and small-sided play practice/ teaching games for understanding. Include free play. 12:1 60-75 minutes Up to 3x a week during an 8-12 week season Sport-specific training up to 3x a week (for one specific season), participate in other physical activity or sport 4-5 times a week. Ensure time period in the year when there is a several week rest from all organized sport.
Age and developmentally appropriate lacrosse competition for boys playing in the U13 Age Classification
Our Vision We envision a future that offers people everywhere the opportunity to discover, learn, participate in, enjoy, and ultimately embrace the shared passion of the lacrosse experience.
About Athlete Development It is our sincere hope that by providing these competition guidelines to lacrosse coaches, parents, and program administrators, players across the country will have an opportunity to learn lacrosse in a way that is physically, cognitively, emotionally, and socially appropriate. We believe that this increases both the learning and fun for young athletes. When kids are having fun, they are learning and when they learn they improve. Age appropriate competitions will help young athletes reach their full potential, because they will… Learn Lacrosse Better Love Lacrosse More Stay in Lacrosse Longer
The Small Sided Competition Guidelines and contents herein are the exclusive property of US Lacrosse. Reproduction in whole or part is strictly prohibited. For reproduction requests, please contact US Lacrosse at (410)235-6882 Version 1.0 Published 12/1/2015
Philosophy of U13 Lacrosse U13 lacrosse is where young athletes are honing their technical skills and begin building the tactical skills needed in lacrosse. The children entering at this point have a vast difference in their physical and cognitive developments and the game they play should be designed to reinforce fundamental technical skills and practical tactical applications for playing lacrosse. Essentially, they are preparing to be competitors. Careful planning must be used to ensure that the environment is inclusive of all athletes, provides multiple opportunities for each athlete to “touch” the ball, encourages experimentation, and a progressive development of existing technical skills. Additionally, the technical skills they are honing, are now being applied to the tactical aspect of the game. Athletes should be coached to have a “Growth Mindset” by having effort praised ahead of results. With respect to the competition at this level, coaches, parents, and officials should emphasize: FUN Using technical skills in game situations Exploring and applying new tactical skills.
Age and Eligibility Player must be 13 years old or younger on August 31 of the year preceding competition. It is recommended that when multiple teams exist within a program, teams should consider the physical size, skill, and maturity level when selecting teams. At no time should players younger than 11 years of age be permitted to play at the U13 level. Ideally, players should be playing in single age classifications.
Playing Up or Down It is not recommended that players participate outside of their age classification due to the vast differences is physical and cognitive development. If program size allows, teams should be selected based on the physical size, skill, and maturity level of the athletes in a single age classification.
Recommended Roster Sizes Local administrators should strive to construct their teams with a player to coach ratio of 12:1. This ratio provides ample opportunity for all athletes to receive effective coaching. It is recommended that whenever possible teams do not have more than 15 or less than 12 players.
Coaches and Officials Coaches are not permitted on the field of play. They may roam the designated coaches box on their respective sideline. US Lacrosse recommends 2 certified officials on the field for every competition.
Field Dimensions and Specifications
The Goal 6x6 goals with securely affixed netting. The goal shall be centered within the goal crease.
The Goal Crease The crease shall have a 9’ radius and may be painted on the field or marked with flat disc cones.
Field Markings Given the multiple constraints that many programs encounter, no permanent or semipermanent markings are required by rule. Programs may elect to use flat disc cones in part or whole to designate the playing area. Whenever possible, existing lines on a field may be used to define boundaries, provided the field does not exceed 80x60 yards.
Field Players The U13 Competition is played by having 6 field players from each team on the field at a time and 1 legally equipped goalkeeper.
Goalkeepers Goalkeepers are required at the U13 level of play. Additionally, no player other than a legally equipped goalkeeper (by USL Youth Rules and Guidelines) may intentionally assume the role of goalkeeper.
Protective Equipment Players are required to wear full protective equipment at this level, as outlined in the US Lacrosse Youth Rules and Best Practices Guidebook.
Sticks Field Players Length: Short Sticks - 40”-42” Long Sticks – 52”-72” Stringing: 4-5 leather or synthetic thongs, 8-12 stitches or cross-lacing or mesh, max. Pocket: Depth is legal when the top of the ball remains above the bottom of the heads wall when placed in the pocket of a horizontal stick.
Goalkeepers Length: 40”-72”” Stringing: 6-7 leather and/or synthetic thongs, 8-12 stitches or cross-lacing or mesh, max. Pocket: Depth is legal when the ball moves freely in pocket and stick meets specifications outlined in the boys rule book.
The Ball The ball must meet NOCSAE specifications to be legal for play.
Competition Timing A competition will consist of four (4) 10-minute stopped time quarters, with a two minute break between each quarter and a 5 minute break between the 2 nd and 3rd quarters.
Timeouts Each team is permitted (2) non-consecutive two-minute timeouts per half and (1) twominute timeout per overtime period. Timeouts are not transferrable between halves or overtime periods.
Overtime Two four minute overtimes. If still tied, game ends in a tie.
Advancing the Ball Teams have 20 seconds to clear their defensive half of the field once gaining possession of the ball and 10 seconds to advance the ball into their offensive zone once crossing the midfield line.
Offensive 10 second count, defensive 20 second count.
Scorekeeping Scores are to be kept at this level of play.
Scrum Situations In the event that a loose ball cannot be quickly picked up due to multiple players in a “scrum,” the official shall stop play and award the ball via Alternating Possession rules.
Starting the Competition A coin-toss will be used to determine which team is defending which end of the field prior to the game. The winner of the toss can choose First Alternating Possession or choice of goal. Competitions begin with a face-off. The official will conduct the face off with one player from each team meeting at the center x. Teams will place one player on either of the wing lines. Each team must have two players behind the restraining line on their offensive end and 3 players behind the restraining line on their defensive end of the field. All players are released once possession has been established.
Restarting After a Goal is Scored Competitions begin with a face-off. The official will conduct the face off with one player from each team meeting at the center x. Teams will place one player on either of the wing lines. Each team must have two players behind the restraining line on their offensive end and 3 players behind the restraining line on their defensive end of the field. All players are released once possession has been established. In a penalty situation, the team with a player or player(s) in the penalty area will face-off man down. If they are more than 2 men down, the ball shall be awarded to the offended team at the center x.
Off-Sides A team is considered off-sides when they have more than 4 players (including any players in the penalty area) on their offensive side of the field or when they have more than 5 players (including any players in the penalty area) on their defensive side of the field.
Substitutions Coaches will conduct a whole-team substitution prior to a face-off or during other deadball situations. There are no live ball or “on the fly” substitutions permitted. This discourages specialization of positions and contributes to developing well-rounded lacrosse athletes.
Technical Fouls Goal Crease Violation No player from either team may enter the crease at any time, other than a legally equipped goalkeeper. A player may reach his stick into the crease for the sole purpose of collecting a loose ball. If the ball becomes ensnared in the outside of the goal, the official will blow the whistle and award the ball to the defensive team. Penalty: Current US Lacrosse Youth Rules Specifications.
Stalling The stalling rule is in effect for the last two minutes of play at the U13 level. The offensive team must keep the ball in the box or offensive zone if they have a 1 goal or greater lead. Penalty: Current US Lacrosse Youth Rules Specifications.
Failure to Advance Should a team fail to meet the requirements of advancing the ball the following penalty shall apply: Penalty: Current US Lacrosse Youth Rules Specifications..
Goalkeeper Count In the event of the goalkeeper gaining possession of the ball within his crease during a live-ball situation, the goalkeeper has 4 seconds to either exit the crease or pass the ball out of the crease to a member of his team. Penalty: Current US Lacrosse Youth Rules Specifications.
Goalkeeper Interference With one foot inside of his crease, and possession of the ball the goalkeeper is protected from checking of any type. Penalty: Current US Lacrosse Youth Rules Specifications.
Off Sides A team is considered off-sides when they have more than 4 players (including any players in the penalty area) on their offensive side of the field or when they have more than 5 players (including any players in the penalty area) on their defensive side of the field. Penalty: Current US Lacrosse Youth Rules Specifications.
Personal Fouls Slashing Full stick checking is permitted. Penalty: Current US Lacrosse Youth Rules Specifications.
Body Checking Full body checking is permitted. No take-out checks are allowed. Penalty: Current US Lacrosse Youth Rules Specifications.
Unsportsmanlike Conduct Players are expected to uphold the highest levels of sportsmanship at all times. Penalty: Current US Lacrosse Youth Rules Specifications.
About Coaching U13 Athletes KEY OBJECTIVES FOR SUCCESS Focus-Where we spend most of our time. Goals for this stage of development -What we are trying to achieve Player-centered environment-what it should look like
Honing athletes Technical and fundamental Tactical skills. To reinforce technical skills while learning and practicing tactical applications in a progressive system. Getting as many touches of the ball as possible. Fun, inclusive, accepting, engaging and positive. Focus on improvement and effort rather than outcome. Reinforce new and existing skills while learning to apply to tactics through small sided and engaging play and enjoyable practice. Opportunities to try new things. Growth mindset.
PLAYER DEVELOPMENT Athletic Development Technical (Skills) Development
Tactical (Strategy) Development
Psychological Development working to support athletes in these areas… Social-Behavioral Development-know that at this age they are…
Agility, footwork, dynamic balance, complex coordination, multidirectional speed, strength, core strength, flexibility. Consolidating and mastering all technical skills, exploring variations-- developing consistency under pressure. Mastering individual defensive skills. Beginning to develop positionspecific skills. Developing situational understanding of play up to 7 v 7; developing understanding of zones, proficient with riding and clearing, player to player defense. Working on space and time Love of the sport, focus, simple goal setting, self-motivation, confidence, learning to make decisions, developing selfreliance, understanding winning and losing. Respect. More independent, able to share, improved decision making ability. Desire independence and are building confidence. Peer group acceptance becomes important and physical competency plays a role in how one is perceived. Girls tend to form "cliques," boys have more broad team relationships.
PRACTICE Practice to Competition & Competition Specific Training Ratio** Primary Objective of Practice
Max Recommended Ratio (player:coach) Length of Sessions Frequency* Multi-Sport Participation-Sport and physical activity diversification-Other sports and activities.
70:30 Boys/60:40 Girls
To reinforce basic technical skills and introduce tactical components of the game through progressions and small-sided play practice/ teaching games for understanding. Include free play. 12:1 60-75 minutes Up to 3x a week during an 8-12 week season Sport-specific training up to 3x a week (for one specific season), participate in other physical activity or sport 4-5 times a week. Ensure time period in the year when there is a several week rest from all organized sport.
