Mission:

Riverhead Youth Lacrosse's mission is to make lacrosse accessible to all children in Riverhead, focusing on fundamentals, teamwork, respect and confidence. We believe that every child should have the opportunity to play lacrosse, regardless of cost, perception, or logistics. Through lacrosse, we aim to open up new opportunities for Riverhead's youth.

Our program is open to boys and girls from kindergarten through 8th grade.

Fundamentals:

Proper fundamentals are essential for growth. Our experienced coaches know how to develop young players' skills. We also have access to the latest coaching techniques and theory through USA Lacrosse.

• Catching and throwing

• Picking up ground balls

• Shooting

• Defensive technique and positioning

• Team communication

• Field awareness

Teamwork:

Teamwork is about people working together to achieve a common goal. It requires dedication and perseverance. Successful teams overcome obstacles and learn from each other. Through youth sports, children can experience personal growth and develop important life skills.

Sports teams are a great way for kids to experience diversity and learn to cooperate with others. Every team member must work together to achieve success, putting aside individual differences. This diverse mix of personalities and challenges helps children become patient, persistent, and adaptable.

Teams help children feel important as teammates support each other. Kids can also develop lasting friendships that foster a sense of community and provide a safe foundation for dealing with stress.

Youth sports can help children develop strong leadership skills by teaching them to voice their needs and listen to their teammates.

Respect:

Respect is a critical part of Riverhead Youth Lacrosse's mission, and we teach and practice it in everything we do.

Teammates: Respecting teammates with different skill levels is key to a successful and enjoyable season.

Coaches: Our volunteer coaches are dedicated to the game, and we couldn't have a program without them.

Opponents: We respect our opponents as we would expect them to respect us, with no taunting allowed and a post-game handshake that's just as important as the game itself.

Officials: These men and women love the game and choose to officiate. Only the head coach interacts with referees.

Gratitude: We clean up after every practice and game, and thank our hosts for their hospitality.

Game: Lacrosse is a cherished part of North American history, and it's an honor to be involved in that legacy. USA Lacrosse's "Code of Conduct" is important reading for players, coaches, and parents alike.

Confidence:

Fear crushes your hopes and dreams faster than failure ever will.

Young athletes who believe in themselves are more likely to take risks, embrace challenges, and bounce back from failures. Mistakes are opportunities to learn and improve, encouraging resilience and helping our youth view challenges as building blocks rather than road blocks.

Confidence is key to mental toughness. Skills and abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work. Stack the days, keep showing up, and good things happen.

We celebrate effort, not just outcomes.