Parent Newsletter March 2011

March 2011

This newsletter is published & distributed by US Lacrosse as a resource for parents of US Lacrosse members.

Best Practice #1 – Fun is Essential
Introduction by Sara Noon and main article by Dr. Richard D. Ginsburg.

"Researchers have found that anywhere from 30-70% of kids drop out of sports by the time they are 13 years old, and the number one reason why they quit is that they aren't having any fun." This fact from Richard Ginsburg's article below is not surprising, and I would venture to say that kids no longer "have fun" because there is too much pressure -- mostly from their parents. I have watched kids play sports under tremendous pressure -- whether it is parents wanting them to play "their" game or coaches' pressure during the recruiting process -- the kids lose their game. It is sad to watch as their minds win over their talented bodies.

EVERYONE'S INVITED

Is your child's team attending one of the four US Lacrosse Lax Fests this May or June? Open to U15, U13 and for the first time, U11 teams for a "camaraderie over competition" type of experience. No trophies, no worries. Lax Fests are all about the fun of playing America's greatest game! It's a chance to play against and get to know teams from all over. So ask your child's coach if their team is participating in one or more of the Lax Fests!

Not for you? US Lacrosse also hosts U15 Regional Championships held the same dates and locations as the Lax Fests! Compete for bids and registration discounts to the U15 National Championship in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in July.

West Region –
Phoenix, Ariz. May 13-15, 2011 Reach 11 Sports Complex

Northeast Region –
Amherst, Mass. May 20-22, 2011 UMass Athletics Complex

Central Region –
Arlington, Texas June 10-12, 2011 Harold Patterson Complex

Southeast Region –
Raleigh, N.C. June 17-19, 2011 CASL Soccer Complex

Take the time to read over these playing options for your family! For more information, please visit us online.

Hurry! Registration ends March 15.
Have a friend who is not a member of US Lacrosse? Spread the news, the more the merrier!

ASK THE EXPERT

A new lacrosse season brings a new season of Ask the Expert!

Our Ask the Expert feature is your chance to have your questions answered. Last season, we covered lacrosse, child psychology, rules, recruiting, parenting, and more! What will we cover this season? It's up to YOU! Submit your question by clicking here.