The Rise of Lacrosse on Long Island
Get can’t-miss family activities sent to you!
Get the Best Kid-Friendly Activities
Sent to You Weekly!
As athletes age and determine that they would like to compete at an elite level, there are more competitive teams like the Long Island Express, which is geared at preparing children to play college lacrosse. It also boasts U.S. Lacrosse and Under Armour All Americans and hundreds of Division I lacrosse players among its alumni network.
Parents who worry that their little athletes may not enjoy lacrosse can always take their children to watch the Long Island Lizards, one of the first three Major League Lacrosse teams, play when their season begins in May (for tickets, visit www.longislandlizards.com/tickets). After the game, children may have a better idea of whether they would like to begin playing lacrosse.
"The fast pace and exciting nature of the game attracts many followers," Ruszkowski says. "It isn't a game you can afford to be unprepared for and expect to win. Avid girls' lacrosse fans know the special skills and dedication it takes to play the sport, so it's what tends to keep them interested and attracts new followers."
Also see: Our guide to Long Island Lacrosse Clubs