New to the sport? You belong here.
LACROSSE 101.
Lacrosse is a fast-moving team sport played with a stick and ball. Players learn to carry, pass, catch, scoop ground balls, and shoot. NAYL’s developmental programs teach those skills step by step, so a first-time player can begin with the group.
Beginners learn through age-appropriate drills, small games, and plenty of repetition.
What should my child expect?
Practices mix skill stations, movement, teamwork, and game-like play. Current community programs are co-ed and developmental. Verde Valley is explicitly non-contact; formats and contact expectations for other groups depend on age, enrollment, and the activities coaches schedule. Ask your team before buying protective gear.
What do we need?
- Water, athletic clothes, and closed-toe athletic shoes or cleats.
- NAYL provides equipment for the current developmental season. Bring personal gear if you have it.
- A parent or guardian completes registration and required agreements.
What does a season cost?
Fall 2026 registration is $50 for Flagstaff and Prescott and $40 for Verde Valley. Each player also needs an annual USA Lacrosse membership, currently listed by NAYL as $35. Your expected fall total is therefore $85 in Flagstaff or Prescott and $75 in Verde Valley. Registration shows the final amount before payment.
Cost should not keep a child off the field.
Ask NAYL about registration scholarships and available equipment support.
Ask privately about supportYOUR FIRST SEASON.
Choose your community.
Find Flagstaff, Prescott, or Verde Valley and review the weekly schedule.
Check the fit.
Community teams welcome grades K–12. Groups are organized around age, experience, and enrollment.
Register online.
Complete registration and payment, review the waiver, and contact your coach before the first practice.
GOOD QUESTIONS.
CLEAR ANSWERS.
Does my child need experience?+
No. Beginners are welcome, and practices are designed to teach the game.
Do we need to buy a stick first?+
No. Equipment is available for current developmental programs. Confirm what your team provides before shopping.
Is lacrosse safe?+
Coaches use age-appropriate instruction, equipment, and program rules. Ask your team about the exact format and protective equipment for your child’s group.
Can we join after a season starts?+
Sometimes. Contact NAYL so the local program director can confirm space and the best first practice.
What comes after fall?+
Verde Valley has a winter season planned for December–January on Wednesdays from 1:30–3:00 PM at Posse Grounds Park. Prescott winter details are still being finalized.