Playing time is always a big concern for parents.  ​​The sport of lacrosse doesn't naturally tend to produce equal playing time situations. Certain positions can (and should) stay on the field longer than others. For instance, middies need to shift roughly 2 or 3 times the frequency of other players because they cover the full field. Attack and defensive players typically cover half the field and can stay on the field longer. U12/U14 teams play with penalties and “man- up” or “man-down” situations leaving an uneven number of players on the field. There are times when a player who just got on the field will need to shift off to get the right player in for one of these situations or other unique-to-lacrosse scenarios. We try to keep track of these situations so no one gets shorted, but throughout the managed chaos known as a lacrosse game, even the best of coaches may unintentionally short a player's time. If this occurs it is our goal to remedy the playing time during a future game. We encourage any parent with playing time questions to contact their head coach to learn more about the specific roles on the team, where their child fits in, and how that impacts his/her playing time.

U6 (K/1):

This age group is instructional only. If/when there are scrimmages or games, everyone will have ample opportunity to play.

U8 (1/2):

This age group is instructional along with some games and scrimmages. They will be matched-up with local teams and there may be some tournament games as well. Playing time will be equalized as much as possible.

U10 (3/4):

This age group there are players who begin to vary in skill drastically. There may be games or tournaments in the schedule where the competition is exceptional where playing time is not always equal at this age group, but our goal is to get every player in the game who is suited up on the sidelines. Coaches will choose the most capable and durable players to fill appropriate rosters. Rosters are constructed based on the number of players registered to participate and an early-season evaluation process. Rosters may vary throughout the season depending on a player’s progress/motivation.

12U (5/6):

Playing time is not always equal at this age group and older, but our goal is to get every player in the game who is suited up on the sidelines. There may be games scheduled where the competition is exceptional. Coaches will choose the most capable and durable players. Rosters are constructed based on the number of players registered to participate and an early-season evaluation process. Rosters may fluctuate throughout the season depending on a player’s progress/motivation, injuries, illness, etc. Coaches are empowered to make dynamic roster and playing time decisions for the development of each player and the program..  Rosters may fluctuate throughout the season depending on a player’s progress/motivation, injuries, illness, etc. Coaches are empowered to make dynamic roster and playing time decisions for the development of each player and the program.

U14 (7/8):

There are several players on this team that have been playing the sport for a long time, and a few players that are relatively new to the sport. Each of the games will be very competitive and playing time is not equal or guaranteed. It should be expected in close games, not all players will be given playing time. For other games that are not close, every attempt will be made to allow playing time for the more novice players. Coaches are empowered to make dynamic roster and playing time decisions for the development of each player and the program. Ultimately, our goals are to teach our players to love the game of lacrosse along with life skills like camaraderie, work ethic, discipline, communication, etc.  

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*Please note: If your have questions about the above at any level and want to discuss with the ZLAX board please email Brad Goldberg at boysdirector@zlax.org or contact board@zlax.org