The 8U Boys Program introduces young athletes to lacrosse, emphasizing fundamental skills like cradling, scooping, passing, catching, and shooting. We also introduce basic offensive and defensive principles to build game understanding. The core goal is to create a positive experience that sparks a lifelong passion for the sport.

Middleton Youth Lacrosse follows USA Lacrosse guidelines to ensure safe, fair, and sportsmanlike play, creating teams balanced by age, size, and skill. For 8U, players must be 8 years old or younger as of August 31 preceding the season, generally comprising first and second graders. 

Residency requirements also apply; details are available on our Eligibility page.

Practices begin the week after the Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District's spring break. Games start in early April with the Badger Spring Invite in the Wisconsin Dells, followed by regular Saturday matches from mid-April through late May. The season ends with the Norski Invitational tournament in DeForest the first weekend of June. 

Practices run 2-3 times weekly at the lacrosse fields on Airport Road, with all 8U teams practicing together. No mandatory attendance is required, but regular participation is key to skill growth and strongly encouraged.

Players should arrive at games and practices fully dressed, ready to participate, and showing respect for teammates and coaches through positive attitude, effort, and sportsmanship. 

At this age, player may occasionally request to sit out or take a break; coaches will encourage involvement without forcing participation. If a player's disengagement distracts others, coaches will discuss solutions privately with parents afterward. 

In the 8U program, all players receive equal playing time across games and practices to ensure balanced development opportunities for everyone.

Games use a 4-versus-4 format for maximum involvement. A coach from each team is on the field for instruction and officiating. No goalies or offsides rules apply, maintaining a focus on fun. Matches typically feature two 12-minute halves, adjustable by mutual coach agreement.

A successful 8U program relies on parent involvement, including an assistant coach and bench coach alongside the head coach. Home games require volunteers for scorekeeping and timekeeping, plus a team manager for communications and optional snack scheduling. Parent support creates a structured, enjoyable environment. 

Middleton Lacrosse does not typically provide equipment, so players need their own:

• crosse (stick);
• helmet;
• shoulder pads (NOCSAE ND 200 compliant);
• arm pads;
• gloves;
• mouthguard; and
• protective cup.

All items must be worn properly for safety during practices and games. 

Cleats are recommended but optional; lacrosse-specific or molded alternatives (e.g., from football, soccer, or baseball) are fine. 

Scholarships and financial aid for equipment are available for eligible families.