Coaches Corner

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GUIDING PRINCIPLES FOR COACHING STAFF MEMBERS OF FOREST LAKE YOUTH LACROSSE

Summary Statement

As leaders and mentors to our players, it is crucial that we consistently uphold the guiding principles that define our approach to coaching and support the culture as represented by our mission, vision, and values. These principles are more than just guidelines—they are the foundation upon which we build a positive, inclusive, and developmental experience for every athlete.

By adhering to these principles, we ensure that every player grows not only in their skills on the field but also in character, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Our focus on player development, safety, fairness, and respect helps create an environment where young athletes can thrive, enjoy the game, and develop a lifelong passion for lacrosse.

The examples being set as coaches resonate beyond practices and games. It impacts how players view themselves, their teammates, and the sport. When we commit to fairness, accountability, and continuous improvement, we are shaping not just better athletes but better people.

Support and reflection upon these principles can foster a positive, supportive, and a fun environment that helps every player succeed. And the coaches not only develop skilled athletes but also foster well-rounded individuals with strong character.

Guiding Principles

Adhere to the Mission, Vision, and Values of the Program: Consistently support and act out the mission, vision, and values as set forth by the organization. Support culture and develop practice plans and demonstrate encouragement and verbalization of the core values.
Foster Culture of Safety & Positivity: Ensure practices and games are a space where players feel supported and respected. Promote safety by teaching proper techniques and adhering to safety guidelines.
Prioritize Player Development: Focus on skill development, teamwork, and sportsmanship over winning. Encourage growth through learning, effort, and improvement.
Lead by Example: Demonstrate good sportsmanship, respect for officials, opponents, and parents. Be a role model of integrity, fairness, and responsibility.
Fair Play and Equal Opportunity: Provide all players with opportunities to participate and improve, regardless of their skill level. Emphasize inclusivity and team cohesion over individual performance.
Effective Communication: Maintain clear and positive communication with players, parents, and fellow coaches. Encourage open dialogue while setting healthy boundaries.
Instill Respect and Accountability: Teach players the value of respecting coaches, teammates, and opponents. Encourage accountability for their actions on and off the field.
Focus on Fun and Enjoyment: Remember that lacrosse should be enjoyable and foster building connections between team members, families, coaches, and board members. Balance competition with fun to keep players engaged and passionate about the sport.
Foster a Growth Mindset: Teach players to embrace challenges, learn from mistakes, and view effort as the path to mastery. Reinforce that improvement comes through persistence and resilience.
Commit to Continuous Learning: Stay informed on the latest coaching strategies, techniques, and safety protocols. Actively seek out opportunities for personal and professional development as a coach.
Respect Time Commitments: Be mindful of the players’ time and ensure practices and games start and end as scheduled. Understand the balance between sports and other life commitments for youth athletes.

Registration & Compliance

Forest Lake Youth Lacrosse Coaching Applications - CURRENTLY OPEN FOR THE 2026 SEASON!

COACH APPLICATION - CLICK HERE

Wondering what it takes? Here are the GNLL Coaching Requirements

After applying, the Girls or Boys Coordinator will direct you when to begin the next steps. The following action items need to be completed at least 7 days before your first game to be fully in compliance as a coach. Details and links are below.

Required: USA Lacrosse Background Check--Adult coach members will receive an e-mail after completing the join/renew process for membership on USA Lacrosse. This e-mail contains a link to complete the free national background screening through NCSI. This link is unique to each coach member and should not be shared and given to any other individual. Coach members will have 15 calendar days to initiate the background screening process upon joining or renewing membership.

Required: Heads Up Concussion Training

GNLL Checklist —4 steps—Questions should be sent to the Boys/Girls Coordinators and/or the GNLL Training Team

USA Lacrosse Membership Sign Up/Renewal
Online training modules —Head Coaches require silver or above. All others require bronze or above to be on the sideline. Annual CEU trainings are required to maintain your level. Email a screenshot of your dashboard to the GNLL Training team per the checklist (cc the Boys/Girls Director)
GNLL Coach Registration—links in the checklist
Check gradebook (link in checklist) to verify steps have been completed

training resources

GNLL Resources: Practice Plans & Safety

USA Lacrosse Coaching Resources

ALL TEAMS RESOURCES

Coaches and Players MUST BE REGISTERED--Compliance is mandatory and should be maintained by managers with coach/director oversight

Forest Lake Guiding Principles

Tournament Options

Equipment

boys teams Resources

Boys Youth Rules
2025 Boys Youth Rules Book
2025 Boys Youth Rules Comparison Chart

Coaching Resources
USA Lacrosse Coaching Resources
Homegrown Lacrosse Boys Drill Compilation & Coaching Resources

girls teams Resources

Girls Youth Rules
2025 Girls Youth Rules Book
2025 Girls Youth Rules Comparison Chart

Coaching Resources
USA Lacrosse Coaching Resources
Homegrown Lacrosse Girls Drill Compilation & Coaching Resources