OVERVIEW OF THE UPSTATE LACROSSE ASSOCIATION (ULA)

 The Upstate Lacrosse Association’s (ULA) primary focus is on the instructional and developmental aspects of the game of lacrosse.  The ULA serves Central New York boys and girls from the third grade through the eleventh grade.  There is also a K-2 division in the ULA however, this program operates independently from the larger association.

 The goal of the ULA is to be a recreational youth lacrosse program designed to help players at all levels further develop their lacrosse skills and abilities.  The ULA also focuses on the importance of learning other life skills such as: responsibility, sportsmanship, and being a part of a team.  This approach is most clearly exemplified by the ULA’s commitment to adjust the rules of the game to best meet the players skill development and further develop their understanding of the great game of lacrosse.  

ULA MISSION STATEMENT

 The Upstate Lacrosse Association (ULA), by teaching the fundamentals and foundations of lacrosse, strives to provide the youth players of Central New York with a healthy, positive, and safe learning environment in which the game of lacrosse will be taught, played, and enjoyed while instilling good sportsmanship, teamwork, discipline, charity, and integrity.

Upstate Lacrosse Association Administrators- 2019

Noel Ebner- President and Treasurer

Kevin King- Program Administrator

Game Site Coordinator - Eric Lorraine

Boys Conference Leaders- Walt Eccles and Joe Mueller

Girls Conference Leader- Meghan Thomas

Games Administrator- Derrick Eccles

Website Administrator- Matthew Eccles

Boys Officials Assignor- John Zagata

Girls Officials Assignor- Charlie Aumiller

I attended the US Lacrosse webinar on "Spring Return to Play" last night and wanted to share a few takeaways.

1). The current data indicates that lacrosse being played outside is very safe.  However, the risk threshold increases greatly with spectators, carpooling, congregating, and on the player sidelines.  The motto is "no greeting, no meeting, and no eating".

2). Mask use- follow local guidelines but they promote "helmet off, mask on".  If kids are wearing masks during play, be aware of those kids who have breathing problems/asthma.  A mask that is saturated with sweat/moisture is not a good thing for these kids.  Spectators, if in attendance, must wear a mask and be distanced.  An unmasked, yelling parent can transmit spital some 20 to 30 feet.

3). Communicate and enforce league guidelines and protocols.

4). When kids return to play, it is important to realize that they are not in game shape.  The risk of soft tissue injuries will be high until they are in better condition.

5). There has been a significant increase in childhood anxiety and depression during the pandemic.  Some of these kids will be showing up on teams.  How will anxiety and depression impact their interest in participating?  Reinforce the idea of having fun and don't emphasize performance.

6). Continue protective covid behaviors and measures.

7). Keep player gear distanced; no sharing of waterbottles and keep the mouthguard in!

8). Consider modifying play to limit contact; especially in regard to face offs and draw controls.

That's it for now.  The webinar was recorded and is available on the US Lax website.

Kevin

We have added the ULA policy on Inclement Weather and the NYSPHSAA Heat Index Procedure. Please review for your information

ULA Inclement Weather Policy

NYSPHSAA Heat Index Procedure