Are you considering the start of an inner-city youth lacrosse program? Are you already part of an effort that reaches out to children in your community who may not otherwise have opportunities to play lacrosse or other sports?

In 2008, the US Lacrosse Board of Directors approved the launch of the program, Emerging Groups, in order to allow US Lacrosse to better serve groups in inner-city or underserved communities. This program provides those groups with financial and resource assistance to build and sustain a lacrosse program.

If your program has been active for over a year and you are interested in further affiliation with US Lacrosse, please click here.

• Listing of Current Affiliates
• View the Photo Gallery 

• Come Celebrate 1st Anniversary with LEAPS on Nov. 7, 2009
• Christmas, LEAPS Bring Lax to Inner City (NBC Philadelphia)
• Non-Profit Brings Lacrosse to Inner City Kids (CW Philly 57)
• Past Efforts Paved the Way for Current Success (Phillylacrosse.com)


General Information

When to apply: October, prior to starting the season
Groups selected into program: Early December

Benefits of becoming an Emerging Group:
• Discounted US Lacrosse membership for players
       (includes insurance coverage and Lacrosse Magazine)
• Equipment Grant; 4 package choices – restrictions apply
• Discounted access to Coaches Education Program Level 1 and 2 online courses and clinics; additional discounts on CEP educational DVD’s and resource materials
• NCSI Background checks for coaches/administrators
• PCA online training

How to Apply
 
• Downloadable application link - click here
• Selected groups will be notified in early December and receive equipment (if applicable) no later than March 15

Next Steps 
 
• Affiliation with USL is valid for one year from time of selection
• If selected, group will be asked to produce sufficient information about the progress, growth and success of their program throughout the year.
• USL Emerging Groups will have the opportunity to continue their affiliation with USL following their first year for other support.
• Emerging Groups will have the opportunity to apply for BRIDGE affiliation following their first year within the program.

For more information on this exciting new program, please contact the US Lacrosse Sport Development Department at sportdevelopment@uslacrosse.org. We look forward to hearing about how we can help.