Youth Lacrosse Injury Prevention: Questions for the Program

No checklist can eliminate every sports injury. Families can still ask useful questions about equipment, instruction, workload and how the program responds when a player is hurt.

Equipment and rules

Use USA Lacrosse’s official equipment requirements for the player’s game and role. Boys’ field players generally require a legal stick, helmet, gloves, shoulder and arm pads, mouthguard and protective cup. Girls’ field players generally need approved protective eyewear and a mouthguard; headgear rules vary. Goalkeepers need a helmet, throat protector, gloves and appropriate body protection. Check the NOCSAE ND200 requirement for applicable chest protection. Youth modifications and local rules must be checked before play.

Equipment should fit and remain in appropriate condition. Follow manufacturer instructions; do not cut gloves or modify helmets to improve comfort. Clothing and accessories are not replacements for required protection.

Instruction and workload

Ask who teaches unfamiliar skills and how activities are adapted for beginners. Confirm the division’s legal contact and checking rules. Discuss the whole week’s practices and games rather than assuming extra work is always beneficial.

Know the response plan

Ask how to report pain, suspected concussion or heat concerns and who coordinates emergency assistance. A player should be able to speak up without being told to prove toughness. Follow medical guidance for evaluation and return to activity.

A useful preseason conversation

Bring the equipment list, schedule and any individual participation guidance to the appropriate program contact. Our equipment checklist, hydration guide and recovery guide provide related planning resources. They support informed questions and do not replace fitting, coaching or clinical care.