Discover how to:
✓ Understand the “Ux” naming convention
✓ Register your child in the right program
✓ Know the difference between House League and Rep programs
“What do they mean when they talk about U7 and U17?”
✓ Age Groups Explained
Lacrosse, like many other sports, has implemented the “Ux” naming convention. We know this can be confusing at times for new parents.
“U” stands for Under and the number is the age your child cannot be to play in that division—make sense?
That means that a U7 program is for players who have not and will not turn 7-years-old in the current playing year.
Ontario Lacrosse uses the odd number naming convention and age divisions are grouped into 2-year increments all the way up through minor, so in box we start at U5, then U7, U9, U11, U13, U15 and U17.
Players are not allowed to play down at younger levels and require “exceptional status” to play in a higher level age division unless they are called up.
The age chart determines the divisions and programs your child will have the opportunity to play and participate in this season. The age chart will also help you better understand the levels of programming available to you as a member of our club.
“What’s the different between box and field lacrosse?”
We get it—lacrosse is a little confusing. The sport is divided into four sectors and each has their own set of rules. The sectors are Box Lacrosse, Men’s Field Lacrosse, Women’s Field Lacrosse and the new Olympic version of the sport, Sixes.
✓ Box Lacrosse
Box lacrosse is the indoor version of lacrosse. The game originated here in Canada, where it is the most popular version of the game. There are six players on the floor for each team (5 players and 1 goalie) and is traditionally played in an ice hockey rink once the ice has been removed.
Lacrosse is a fast physical game encompassing specific skills, agility, team work, physical conditioning, discipline, trust and respect. Contact is introduced in U9 Rep, but lacrosse is one of the safest sports with the fewest amount of youth injuries, ranking safer than hockey, soccer, football and basketball, despite the high pace and physical nature of the game.
✓ Men’s Field Lacrosse
Field lacrosse is the outdoor version of lacrosse and the fastest growing game in North America.
There are 10 players on the field; 3 attack, 3 midfielders, 3 defence and a goalie. Substitutions are done on the fly, mostly for the midfielders, who play the entire length of the field. The attack will generally remain on the offensive half of the field while the defense (long poles) will remain on the defensive half. Players may exchange positions as long as another player remains in the area as a temporary replacement.
✓ Women’s Field Lacrosse
Women's Field Lacrosse is another outdoor version of the sport for women.
It was introduced in 1890 in St Andrews, Scotland. The women’s game is played with twelve players on each team and the rules of women's lacrosse differ significantly from Men's Field Lacrosse. There is no body contact. Equipment required to play is also different. The stick has a shallow pocket and is checked before every game and after every goal for conformity to the rules. Women are only required to wear a mouthguard, and protective goggles.
✓ Sixes Lacrosse
Sixes Lacrosse is the newest and most simplified version of the sport and is the format being played at the Olympic level. Designed to be fast-paced, exciting, and easy to learn, Sixes is played with six players per team (5 players and 1 goalie) on a smaller field, with shorter games and fewer stoppages. It blends elements of box and field lacrosse, emphasizing speed, skill, creativity, and continuous play. With fewer rules and quick transitions, Sixes is an accessible entry point for new players while still being a fun, high-energy option for experienced athletes.
“What Programs Are Currently Offered In Mississauga?”
The Mississauga Badgers are presently offering Box Lacrosse programming only, with both House League and Rep opportunities available for boys and girls. We are excited to share that Sixes Lacrosse programming is planned for the Fall. Families interested in Men’s Field Lacrosse or Women’s Field Lacrosse can complete the “Where Do I Play?” form on the Ontario Lacrosse Association website.
What’s the difference between House League and Rep?
✓ House League
House League is the recreational stream of lacrosse and is designed to be fun, inclusive, and developmental. It’s a great option for players who are new to the sport or who want to play in a lower-commitment environment while still learning skills, teamwork, and game play.
House League teams typically practice once or twice per week and play games against other teams within the same community. The focus is on participation, skill development, and enjoying the game in a supportive setting.
✓ Rep
“Rep” is short for Representative. Rep teams represent the club in competition against other clubs and are the highest calibre of lacrosse within the club. Mississauga offers both co-ed and girls-only Rep programs in Box Lacrosse. Players must be residentially bound to the club to play Rep. Co-ed Rep Box begins at U7 while Girls-only Rep opportunities are introduced at U11.
In age divisions where there is enough interest, a development (2nd) team may also be formed. Rep teams are rated annually from “A” to “E” and participate in league play and provincials under the Ontario Lacrosse Association.
New players are welcome and encouraged to try out for Rep
Tryouts are typically held in late March or early April. Players must register for a Rep program to participate in tryouts. Any player who does not make a Rep team will receive a full refund. We strive to ensure that all players who want to play Rep have the opportunity to do so.
It’s never too late to try Rep lacrosse. Players and families often find a strong sense of community, long-lasting friendships, and an incredibly rewarding sport experience. No prior experience is required—many successful players are simply those who are eager to learn, work hard, and be part of a team.