CYA Lacrosse participates in the Northern Virginia Youth Lacrosse League (NVYLL).  We compete against programs throughout the Northern Virginia area, and follow NVYLL rules.  Our players range from pre-school through 8^th grade, and each age group is comprised of kids from a 2 year gap (ie. 5^th/6^th graders).

Lacrosse has a saying that it is “One Sport, Two Games”.  The boys and girls games have much in common, but are clearly significantly different.  Boys play with helmets and pads, and their game is characterized by power and contact.  Girls need much less equipment, have different sticks, and it is more of a finesse and speed game.  Both games are extremely exciting to play.

At our younger age groups, we will have Modified games with fewer players on a smaller field to allow for more touches and opportunities for the players.  As the players age-up they have the opportunity to play on a full-size field.  Eventually, boys play 10v10, and girls play 12v12 on a football sized field.  For the boys, no body checking is allowed until 12U, and even then there are rules to promote a safe sport.

Although the skills required to play lacrosse can initially appear intimidating to some, with proper instruction and a little practice kids tend progress very quickly in their development.  Many skills they learn from other sports translate very well to the lacrosse field.  We have tons of soccer, basketball, hockey, baseball, and football players pick up the sport very easily. 

In order to provide for an appropriate level of competition and maximize the amount of fun for the players, NVYLL has established three team levels at each age group – A, B, and C.  An A-team will typically be comprised of more experienced players, and B and C teams are made up of progressively newer players.  It is not uncommon for a player to move up in levels after just one season.

We will have assessments at the beginning of the season to place kids on an appropriate level team.  These assessments are required if a player would like to be placed on an A-level team.  However, they are strongly encouraged for all players as it provides additional opportunities for the players to practice and have fun.