Chelmsford Youth Lacrosse’s Select Program serves boys and girls in grades 5 through 8 and participates in the Mass Youth Lacrosse (MYL) Select League. The Select Program is designed for players seeking a higher level of competition and a more advanced lacrosse experience.

Teams typically compete in one league game per week, primarily on Fridays, and hold 1 extra practice (separate from classic) during the week. The Select Program emphasizes advanced skill development, team concepts, competitive play, and preparation for higher levels of lacrosse, while continuing to promote sportsmanship, respect, and accountability.

Team Structure and Player Selection

Select teams are organized using MYL grade groupings:

• Grades 5/6

• Grades 7/8

Placement on a Select team is determined through a formal evaluation process. Players are selected based on skill level, lacrosse IQ, effort, coachability, and overall readiness for a competitive environment. Due to roster limitations, not all interested players may be selected.

Teams are formed to compete at an appropriate MYL Select division level and are not required to maintain equal talent distribution across teams.

Playing Time Philosophy

In alignment with MYL Select guidelines, playing time is not guaranteed and may vary based on game situations, opponent level, and team needs. Coaches strive to balance individual development with competitive success. Playing time decisions may be influenced by practice attendance, effort, attitude, positional needs, and overall performance.

Coaching and Expectations

Select teams are led by coaches with a higher-level lacrosse background, including prior competitive playing and/or coaching experience. All Select coaches are approved by the CYL Board and must meet all MYL requirements, including background checks and required coaching certifications.

Select coaches are expected to:

• Provide a competitive, development-focused environment

• Teach advanced individual and team concepts

• Prepare athletes for higher levels of play

• Hold players to elevated standards of commitment, effort, and accountability

Player Commitment and Attendance 

The CYL Select program is intended for players seeking a higher level of competition and commitment. In accordance with Mass Youth Lacrosse Select guidelines, players selected to a Select team are expected to demonstrate a strong commitment to their team throughout the season.  All select players MUST participate in the CYL Classic season and be on a CYL classic roster.

• Practice Commitment: Players are expected to attend all scheduled practices. Consistent attendance is essential to team development, implementation of systems, and competitive preparedness.

• Game Availability: Players are expected to be available for all scheduled league games, which are typically played on Fridays.

• Communication: Any conflicts with practices or games must be communicated to the coaching staff in advance. Unexcused or repeated absences may affect a player’s role or availability.

• Effort and Conduct: Players are expected to consistently demonstrate effort, focus, coachability, and respect for teammates, opponents, officials, and coaches.

• Competitive Roster Expectations: Select rosters are formed with the understanding that playing time is not guaranteed. Attendance, effort, performance, and readiness are factors that may be considered when determining playing time, positions, and game participation.

Participation on a Select team represents a season-long commitment. Families should carefully consider other sport or extracurricular obligations before accepting a Select roster position. Failure to meet commitment expectations may result in reduced playing time or additional action at the discretion of the coaching staff and CYL leadership, consistent with MYL Select philosophy.