Youth | Recreation

Mission

To teach, grow, and honor lacrosse by empowering youth ages 6–14 in the U.S. Virgin Islands through safe, rewarding, skill-based programming that emphasizes sportsmanship, teamwork, character, and community. Our program will inspire lifelong engagement in the sport and prepare young athletes both on and off the field.

Goals and Objectives

  • Establish a fun, consistent, and safe lacrosse experience for children ages 6–14
  • Build a sustainable volunteer network by recruiting, training, and supporting coaches and program staff from the community
  • Implement a standardized curriculum aligned with national coaching standards to ensure quality instruction and clear progressions
  • Promote fair play, equal participation, and character education in all program activities
  • Engage parents, schools, and local organizations for participation, facilities access, and long-term resource support
  • Establish an accountable governance framework under USVI Lacrosse for strategic oversight and local adaptation.

Concepts and Principles of Our Program

  • Community-Based Local Teams: Players join town teams and play with their peers, building local spirit and making participation convenient for families
  • Certified Volunteer Coaches: Coaches are trained, certified, and held to standards emphasizing safety, sportsmanship, growth, and fun. Coaching clinics and online resources are provided at regular intervals
  • Comprehensive Curriculum: Nationally aligned curricula focus on fundamentals, teamwork, and age-appropriate competition. Core skills (passing, shooting, ground balls, defense) are organized into progressive phases
  • Inclusive Philosophy: Equal participation, character development, and respect for referees, teammates, and opponents are foundational to the approach
  • Regular Practices, Clinics, and Games: Scheduled weekly practices and seasonal competitions foster skill development. Most teams attend local jamborees or tournaments
  • Parent and Community Engagement: Parents, local businesses, schools, and municipalities are engaged as sponsors, supporters, volunteers, and facility partners
  • Clear Governance Structure: Programs establish independent leadership groups for the youth program under the larger association umbrella, providing oversight while allowing for local adaptation

 The USVI youth lacrosse program is built on best practices from leading associations, focusing on age-appropriate skill development, certified volunteer coaching, community outreach, and a robust governance framework. By pursuing this approach, USVI Lacrosse will establish a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable youth lacrosse ecosystem—one that empowers young athletes, unites communities, and honors the game’s highest standards.