SMYLA requires each participating organization to field at least one team at the U11 (Peewees), U13 (Midgets) and U15 (Juniors) age groups. Organizations with more than one team at any age group can schedule games for a second (or 'B' team).
While there is no sanctioned 'B' level in SMYLA, most organizations schedule 'B' games during the regular season.
In addition to these age groups SMYLA organizations also have the option to field a U9 (Bantams) age group. At present time every organization within SMYLA fields at least one Bantams (U9) team.
The age group for which a young man plays is determined by how old he is on December 31 of the year preceding the spring season.
EXAMPLE: if a young man is 14 on December 31 2009 then he is eligible to play for the Juniors age group in Spring 2009.
BANTAMS (U9)
While not an officially sanctioned age group within SMYLA, each organization participates at this age group. Games are officiated by on-field coaches and are designed as a instructional league to introduce 7 and 8 year olds to the game. No body checking is allowed. Use of goalies, rejecters, field size and number of players is determined prior to the game between the two head coaches.
PEEWEE (U11)
The U11 age group play mostly by Federation Rules. The only exceptions are:
No one-handed stick checks.
MIDGETS (U13)
The U13 age group play by Federation Rules.
No one-handed stick checks.
JUNIORS (U15)
The U15 age group play by Federation Rules.
No one-handed stick checks.
Young men in 9th grade ARE permitted to play IF they do not play on their high school team (JV or Varsity) or comparable club team.
To view U.S Lacrosse Federation Rules visit the U.S Lacrosse web site at: