Breaking Down Barriers with Free Soft Lacrosse Programs
In communities across Ontario, lacrosse organizations are finding new ways to make the sport more accessible from the very first introduction.
Free Soft Lacrosse programs are helping clubs remove financial barriers, introduce families to the game, and build stronger connections within their communities. What starts as a simple, fun first experience often becomes the beginning of a long-term journey in lacrosse.
In 2023, more than 20 Ontario Lacrosse clubs adopted free Soft Lacrosse programming, leading to increased participation and stronger registration pathways into entry-level divisions.
What is Soft Lacrosse?
Soft Lacrosse is a non-contact introductory program designed for the youngest participants, typically ages 3 and 4. It focuses on creating a safe, welcoming, and fun environment where children can begin developing basic skills and a love for the game.
Through small-group activities and skill-based games, players are introduced to movement, coordination, and teamwork—without the pressure of formal competition.
Clubs may choose to brand their programs differently (e.g., Peanut, Little Laxers, Junior Paperweight), but the objective remains the same: a positive first experience with lacrosse.
Why Offer a Free Program?
Cost is one of the most significant barriers to entry in sport.
By removing registration and equipment costs, clubs can:
Increase participation at the grassroots level
Introduce new families to lacrosse
Strengthen long-term player development pathways
Build community connections early
Ontario Lacrosse supports this approach by subsidizing administration and insurance fees associated with registration, helping clubs deliver programming at no cost to families.
Who Can Participate?
Soft Lacrosse is designed for:
Children who are 3 or 4 years old during the season
First-time participants with little or no lacrosse experience
The program is strictly non-contact, with no formal games or tournaments, ensuring a development-first environment.
What Equipment is Needed?
One of the key advantages of Soft Lacrosse is its simplicity.
Required equipment includes:
CSA-approved helmet with facemask
Lacrosse stick (shortened to fit the player, typically 24–26 inches)
Gloves
Running shoes
By minimizing equipment requirements, clubs significantly reduce the cost burden for families.
Planning Your Program
Successful Soft Lacrosse programs are structured, but flexible.
A typical session model includes:
Dividing players into small groups (3–4 groups)
Assigning consistent group leaders or volunteers
Setting up multiple skill stations
Rotating groups through each station
Changing activities weekly to maintain engagement
Encouraging parent participation—especially at younger ages—helps build comfort and connection, while reinforcing a welcoming club environment.
The Role of Volunteers
Volunteers are essential to delivering a positive first experience.
Consider enlisting younger players (U11 and U13 players are typically great with this age group) and high school age volunteers who require community service hours to participate in the program.
Players and parents alike want to be able to see their own children in the future of the organization and this is a great way to showcase the culture and community behind your club.
Budgeting and Sustainability
While Free Soft Lacrosse programs remove cost barriers for participants, thoughtful planning is still required to ensure programs are sustainable for clubs.
Expenses will vary depending on available facilities, equipment, and sponsorship support, but most programs include a combination of:
Floor time
Lacrosse sticks and soft balls
T-shirts or jerseys
Basic program supplies
Below is a sample budget based on a 10-week program for 100 participants:
| Item | Cost/Unit | Total |
|---|---|---|
| Floor time (10 weeks x 2 hours) | $100 | $2,000 |
| Lacrosse sticks (100) | $30 | $3,000 |
| T-Shirts (100) | $20 | $2,000 |
| Total Cost | $7,000 | |
| Sponsorship | -$3,000 | |
| Total Club Cost | $4,000 |
Click File → Make a Copy to run your own numbers.
Fundraising Opportunities
Free programming also creates opportunities for optional revenue generation. One of the best ways to raise funds at this age is to introduce a club branded starter kit that introduces players and parents to being part of the club.
Start kits can include:
A mini version of your branded equipment bags
T-shirt featuring a club logo, motto, or mascot
Club branded shorts and socks
A pair of tickets to a junior lacrosse game
Families who save on registration are often more willing to invest in enhancing their child’s experience.
Building the Future of Lacrosse
Free Soft Lacrosse programs are more than an entry point—they are an investment in the future of the game.
By removing financial barriers and creating positive first experiences, clubs can grow participation, strengthen development pathways, and build lasting connections within their communities.
When the first experience is fun, welcoming, and accessible, families are more likely to stay involved.
