Lacrosse is a traditional Native American game, which was first witnessed by Europeans when French Jesuit missionaries in the St. Lawrence Valley witnessed the game in the 1630s.[] The games were sometimes major events that could last several days. As many as 100 to 1,000 men from opposing villages or tribes would participate. Native American lacrosse describes a broad variety of stick-and-ball games played by them. Geography and tribal customs dictated the extent to which women participated in these early games:
"Lacrosse, as women play it, is an orderly pastime that has little in common with the men's tribal warfare version except the long-handled racket or crosse (stick) that gives the sport its name. It's true that the object in both the men's and women's lacrosse is to send a ball through a goal by means of the racket, but whereas men resort to brute strength the women depend solely on skill." - Rosabelle Sinclair
Women’s lacrosse allows less contact than men's lacrosse. As a result, the only protective equipment required for play are goggles and a mouthguard. Gloves are optional.
The Key West Youth Lacrosse League will provide required gear on a first-come, first-served basis. You will only need to bring a mouthguard. If you did not indicate you needed gear during registration but now wish to rent from the League, contact the equipment coordinator for availability at:
[email protected].
The following equipment is required:
Eye Protection
Younger girls (U6-U12):
- Goggles should fit comfortably and provide visibility.
- Vented, silicone padding provides comfort and a secure fit while playing.
- Eye protection comes in both youth and adult sizes.
- Goggles should meet ASTM 307 standards. A list is here.
Older girls (U14-U16)
- A helmet that fits comfortably and provides visibility.
Mouthguards
- Must be a visible color (no clear mouthguards!).
- Mouthguards are molded to the mouth, or can be molded by softening in boiling water and then biting down on them. Mouthguards for braces are NOT boiled or formed.
Lacrosse stick
- We recommend using a regular
women’s lacrosse stick. Cutting the stick should only be done if absolutely necessary for very young players, since they will grow into their stick. Talk to your coach if you have questions about this. Rentals will not be cut.
The following is optional:
Gloves offer protection and mobility. The typically feature padding along the back of the hand and the thumb but are thin enough to allow flexibility. They also add grip to prevent dropping the stick in cold or wet conditions.