Introductions
Dave Smith (head coach)
Scott Huismann (assistant coach)
Chad Ludwig (assistant coach)
Janet Siersma (manager)
Dave Siersma (photographer)
Background
- We’re a second year team, 7 of our 23 players played U11 for Huntsville Lacrosse last year
- There are 3 other U11 teams in the state of Alabama (all in Birmingham)
- U13 is a full team this year – we will not “play up” players like we did last year
- Unlike last year, players will mainly learn one position
- Coach Smith will dedicate 1 on 1 time every practice to develop our goalie(s)
Season Plan
- Respect the game. This is more than just a motto in the game of lacrosse. We love our game. We expect our parents, coaches, and players to represent our team, our league, and our Huntsville/Madison community with class and respect. The U11 team will be run with a “zero tolerance” policy in this regard. We will respect volunteers, referees (even “bad” ones – if there is such thing as a “bad” volunteer), and opposing players/coaches. We will do this even if others around us don’t. All grievances will be handled through Coach Smith. Players who do not respect the game will sit until they choose to change their behavior.
- On time: Please be on time to practices and games. On time means 20-30 minutes early for practices (fully geared up when practice starts), 1 hour early to games (to allow for team warmups). Please let one of our coaches know in advance if you’re unable to attend a game or practice.
- Focus on fundamentals: Our players will learn the “right” way to play lacrosse. All players should practice what they learn at home. Throw, catch, cradle, scoop – repeat.
- No “superstar” system here: We will focus on developing all of our players. They represent tomorrow’s Varsity team.
- Player expectations: Players at this age (yes, even the 1st graders) can dress themselves. We’ll help snap helmets if needed, but they can do most everything else themselves. Players will be expected to learn drills, and help with setup & breakdown to keep practices moving. Players will chase their own missed shots.
Volunteer Opportunities
- referees – our only paid position. We always need new refs. Coach Smith will be talking to team families more about this in the coming weeks.
- scorekeepers – we’d like to have 2 team parents comfortable with this job
- timekeepers – we’d like to have 2 team parents comfortable with this job
- coaches – even if you’ve never played before, we can help you learn to teach the game
- other areas where you think we need help? Speak up!
Equipment
- Mouthguards and cup are required (practices & games) – Shock Doctor is the best brand we know for both of these pieces of equipment
- Bring all equipment that you have starting on the first practice
- Full equipment not required in first couple of practices, but we need to be in full pads by the second week of practice
- Contact Coach Smith if you’re not sure what you need
- Do not support the lacrosse gear “bling” movement. Expensive equipment makes Coach Smith angry (don’t get him started)
SAFE equipment is critical. Lax bling is useless. Stick to the basics on equipment, especially at this age. - Take care of equipment. Store away from direct sunlight. Deal with frayed pocket strings before gametime.
Game Schedule
Roughly 20 games over 8 weekends. See our team page for the most up-to-date schedule.
Uniform Order
Went out on Friday, Feb 22. We hope to have our game unis before our first game, but be patient if they take a week longer than that. If they’re not ready by then, we’ll use our practice jerseys. Again, bling doesn’t make the lacrosse player
