Boys Lacrosse – Frequently Asked Questions
Program Overview
What is Renegades Lacrosse? Is this a recreation or travel program?
Renegades Lacrosse is a recreation program. There are no tryouts or cuts—every player who registers gets to play.
Our teams compete against other recreation programs in nearby towns, which sometimes requires travel for games. Grades 2–8 may travel to away games, but this does not mean the program is a selective or elite travel team.
We participate in the North Jersey Junior Lacrosse League.
What is the difference between the Boys Recreation Program and the Spring Clinic?
The Boys Spring Recreation Program is a team-based program designed for players who are ready for structured practices, league games, and team play. It emphasizes both skill development and game concepts in a competitive but supportive environment.
The Spring Clinic is an introductory program focused on teaching the fundamentals of lacrosse. It is intended for boys and girls in grades K–2 who are new to the sport or not yet ready for team-based play. The clinic emphasizes basic skills, coordination, and learning the game in a low-pressure setting. For questions about Spring Clinic, contact clinicdirector@renegadeslax.org.
Is there a tryout? What if my son is new to lacrosse?
There are no tryouts, and prior experience is not required. New players are welcome at every grade level.
When does the season start and end?
The season typically begins around March 1 and runs through the first weekend of June. Pre-season winter indoor practices may be scheduled as early as January.
How far do teams travel for games?
We try to minimize travel whenever possible. However, league opponents are located across Warren, Sussex, and Morris counties.
Occasionally, teams may travel up to 90 minutes for away games. Longer-distance games are usually scheduled on weekends, and teams alternate between hosting and traveling.
Do teams participate in tournaments or festivals?
In addition to league games, coaches may choose to participate in local tournaments or festivals that do not interfere with the regular schedule. Participation is optional and determined by the coaching staff.
The program may offset some or all of the tournament costs.
Registration & Availability
What is a waitlist?
Renegades accepts all players who want to play. However, there may be times when additional teams cannot be formed due to limited coaches or field availability.
In those cases, players may be placed on a waitlist until sufficient resources are available. Playing in prior seasons does not guarantee exemption from a waitlist.
What is the USA Lacrosse membership fee, and why is it required?
A USA Lacrosse membership is required for all players and coaches.
This membership provides additional insurance coverage and access to resources from the sport's national governing body. Participation in league games and tournaments requires an active USA Lacrosse membership.
Can my son play on other lacrosse teams during the season?
Players may not play for another recreation team in the same league during the Renegades season.
Boys are permitted to play club lacrosse, provided it does not interfere with Renegades practices or games. Conflicts that impact attendance may affect playing time.
Commitment & Playing Time
How much of a commitment is required?
Renegades encourages multi-sport athletes, especially at younger ages. However, lacrosse is a team sport that requires consistent attendance.
Beginning in Grade 6, players are expected to prioritize lacrosse during the season so that team concepts can be properly taught.
What happens if my son misses practices or games?
Attendance directly impacts player development and team performance. Players who miss practices or games may receive reduced playing time.
Is playing time equal?
League rules require that each player receive at least one full quarter of playing time per game.
Additional playing time may be earned based on attendance, effort, attitude, and commitment to the team.
If there are enough players for two teams at a grade level, how are teams formed?
A coach may hold an evaluation practice prior to the first game. With input from independent evaluators, players are assigned to teams to ensure balanced competition and development.
Player Development
Can my son choose his playing position?
At younger grade levels, players are encouraged to try all positions, including goalie.
As players get older, they may gravitate toward specific positions. Coaches will continue to encourage versatility but may assign players to positions based on team needs.
Does the program track wins, losses, or statistics?
Wins and losses are not officially recorded until 8th grade. Other statistics (such as shots on goal) are optional and tracked at the discretion of the coaching staff.
Equipment & Costs
What equipment is required?
Each player must have:
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Black helmet (required)
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NOCSAE-certified shoulder pads (required)
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Elbow pads
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Gloves
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Protective cup
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Mouthguard (cannot be clear, white, or red)
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Lacrosse stick
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Cleats
The recommended helmet brand is Cascade, which meets current safety standards and is widely used across youth lacrosse. Loaner helmets are available to first-year players upon request. Contact equipmentdirector@renegadeslax.org for more info. Helmet decals are provided at no additional cost.
Note: Helmets displaying other club names, decals, logos, or insignia are not permitted—even if the helmet is black.
Shoulder pads must be certified by NOCSAE. This requirement is intended to help reduce the risk of serious chest injuries, including commotio cordis.
Are there required equipment colors?
Yes. All players must wear a black helmet. There are no other equipment color requirements.
What stick should my son use, and where can we buy one?
Players must use a complete lacrosse stick consisting of a properly strung head and a shaft with a proper-fitting end cap. Complete sticks are available at sporting goods stores such as Dick’s Sporting Goods and at lacrosse specialty retailers like Universal Lacrosse and Lacrosse Unlimited.
For new players, we strongly recommend visiting a lacrosse specialty store, where knowledgeable staff can help ensure your child has the correct stick (and other equipment) based on age, size, and experience level.
Note: "Long pole" defensive shafts are not permitted until the 5th grade.
To help offset equipment costs, Renegades Lacrosse provides families with a 20% off coupon for Dick’s Sporting Goods prior to the start of each season.
What about uniforms?
All players are responsible for providing their own uniforms. Uniforms are ordered online through a dedicated Renegades store: https://signaturelocker.com/collections/renegades-lacrosse-1117
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First-year players will receive a promo code for a free uniform package, which includes:
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Reversible game jersey
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Game shorts
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Shooter shirt
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Reversible practice pinny
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Returning players may purchase replacement uniform items as needed.
Shooter shirt color selection:
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Grades 1–5: Gold shooter shirt
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Grades 6–8: Black shooter shirt
How much does equipment typically cost?
Starter equipment packages typically cost just under $200, depending on brand and retailer. Uniform costs vary based on the items selected.
Coaching & Safety
How are coaches selected and trained?
Head coaches are volunteers selected by the Boys Director based on qualifications and experience. Assistant coaches are chosen by the head coach.
All coaches must:
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Obtain USA Lacrosse Bronze Certification
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Be Rutgers SAFETY-certified
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Attend a Renegades Coaches Clinic
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Complete Positive Coaching Alliance training
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Pass a background check
How many coaches are assigned to each team?
It is recommended that teams have no more than five coaches, with clearly defined roles. League rules allow four coaches on the sidelines during games.
If only one certified coach is available at practice, they may request assistance from a Rutgers-certified parent. If no qualified assistance is available, the practice may be canceled.
Does Renegades Lacrosse have insurance coverage?
Yes. Renegades Lacrosse operates under the insurance policy of Rockaway Township.
To file a claim, an accident report must be completed by the head coach. Activities held outside the official season are not covered. Families may seek additional coverage through the USA Lacrosse Insurance Program.
What is the concussion policy?
Families are strongly encouraged to obtain baseline concussion testing.
Any player suspected of sustaining a concussion will be removed from play immediately and may not return until medically cleared. Coaches follow league and medical guidelines and defer to a physician’s return-to-play recommendations.
Communication & Logistics
How will I know if a practice or game is canceled?
Families will be notified of cancellations or schedule changes via email. If using the TeamSnap app, push notifications may also be sent.
What if I am late picking up my son?
Parents are encouraged to arrive 15 minutes before practice ends. If you expect to be late, please arrange for another parent to pick up your child.
If unavoidable, the coach will remain until pickup. Repeated late pickups may impact a player’s playing time or team assignment.
How should parents address concerns?
Renegades follows a 24-hour policy for non-injury concerns. Parents should wait 24 hours before contacting the head coach.
If the issue is not resolved, concerns may be escalated to the Boys Director and, if necessary, to the Renegades Lacrosse Board.
Volunteering & Administration
Is fundraising or volunteering required?
Renegades does not require traditional fundraising. However, each family is expected to contribute two volunteer hours during the season.
How can I volunteer?
Renegades Lacrosse depends on volunteers to succeed. Opportunities include coaching, team parent roles, scorekeeping, timekeeping, and helping at events such as Romp in the Swamp.
If interested, contact your team’s head coach or the Boys Director.
Who can I contact for more information?
Please email the Boys Director at boysdirector@renegadeslax.org.