A growing game. A growing community.

We’re passionate about growing the game of lacrosse in our communities and aim to introduce you and your kids to this exciting, fast-paced, organized team sport. Here is a guide to help you understand the different programs available to kids and youth in our communities.

Introductory Programs

Lacrosse is one of the youngest organized sports your child can play, so let’s get them started!

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Try Lacrosse

Try Lacrosse days are great for kids and parents interested in signing up to “try before they buy”. These events are designed to be fun and interactive, giving you and your kids a better understanding of the sport.

Soft Lacrosse

It all starts with a scoop. Soft Lacrosse allows children turning 3 or 4 in the current playing year to develop a love for the game in a safe and fun environment as players are introduced to basic lacrosse skills through small group instruction and skill-building games.

3-on-3 Mini Game

The 3-on-3 Mini Game is a non-contact introductory version of the game scaled for children. The smaller floor size dimensions reduce the playing space to increase the game pace, maximizing participation and development opportunities for all players.

OLA School Program

We have an A+ opportunity for schools and teachers! The Ontario Lacrosse school program is designed to develop an appreciation for Canada’s national summer sport with basic skill instruction and the history of the sport.

Interested in locating one of these programs or want to register? Visit our interactive map to find a program near you.

Local and Competitive Programs

There is no better time to start playing lacrosse than now! Keeping your kids active in a sport they love is a great way to keep them active. We can help you find the right local and competitive programs for your older kids and teens.

Our associations offer a variety of indoor (box and women’s box) and outdoor (field and women's field) local and competitive programs:

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Local Lacrosse

Local lacrosse, or house league, is an excellent way for everyone to get – and stay – involved in our community. Players and parents alike are guaranteed to make new friends that often last a lifetime.

Box Lacrosse

Box lacrosse is the indoor version of lacrosse. The game originated here in Canada, where it is the most popular version of the game. There are six players on the floor for each team (5 players and 1 goalie) and is traditionally played in an ice hockey rink once the ice has been removed.

Men’s Field Lacrosse

Men’s Field lacrosse is an outdoor version of lacrosse. There are 10 players on the field; 3 attack, 3 midfielders, 3 defence and a goalie. Substitutions are done on the fly, mostly for the midfielders, who play the entire length of the field. The attack will generally remain on the offensive half of the field while the defense (long poles) will remain on the defensive half. Players may exchange positions as long as another player remains in the area as a temporary replacement.

Women’s Field Lacrosse

Women's Field Lacrosse is another outdoor version of the sport for women and girls. It was introduced in 1890 in St Andrews, Scotland. The women’s game is played with twelve players on each team and the rules of women's lacrosse differ significantly from Men's Field Lacrosse. There is no body contact. Equipment required to play is also different. The stick has a shallow pocket and is checked before every game and after every goal for conformity to the rules. Women are only required to wear a mouthguard and protective goggles.