Policies
Playing by the rules
Lacrosse is a fast-paced and exciting sport that requires a strong understanding of the rules to ensure fair play and prevent injuries. For a detailed breakdown of the rules, please refer to the official rules for the boys and girls programs.
Boys: YLM game rules
Girls: MSLax game rules
Weather policies
Practices
Lacrosse is an all-weather sport. If the School District does not close fields, practices will proceed unless canceled by the board. There are no make-up practices arranged by the association.
For questionable weather:
- Before 5:00 p.m.: Check your email and/or your team's schedule.
- After 5:00 p.m.: Contact your coach directly.
Games
Follow your league’s weather policies for regular season games:
- Boys: YLM weather policy
- Girls: MSLax weather policy
Staying safe in the summer heat
Summer lacrosse means being aware of the Heat Index, a combination of temperature and humidity, and its potential impact on the safety of our players. Visit the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) website to find the current Heat Index.
While each association is responsible for ensuring that a game can be played safely, if the weather forecast indicates the potential for extremely high heat indices, the YLM and/or the MSLax Executive Committee may call for the cancellation of all scheduled games. Such decisions will be communicated through the YLM/MSLax website, an email, or both.
Both YLM and MSLax endorse the following Heat Index guidelines.
| Heat index | Clock impact | Precaution |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 89° | No game changes recommended. | Observe players for signs of heat reactions. Coaches should substitute more frequently and observe players on the sideline. Players should be encouraged to remove helmets and drink extra water. |
| 90-99° | Mandatory one-minute water breaks per quarter. Each quarter should be shortened by one minute. Game clock and any penalty clocks should be stopped during water breaks. Officials should remind teams there should be no coaching during water breaks. | Players should remove helmets during water breaks. Players should pour water on their heads and/or apply cold, wet towels to their necks in addition to drinking plenty of water. |
| 100-105° | Mandatory two-minute water breaks per quarter. Each quarter should be shortened by two minutes. Game clock and any penalty clocks should be stopped during water breaks. Officials should remind teams there should be no coaching during water breaks. | Players should remove helmets during water breaks. Players should pour water on their heads and/or apply cold, wet towels to their necks in addition to drinking plenty of water. Players and parents should be reminded that players need to consume additional water after the game. |
| 105°+ | Suspend play, notify league |
Attendance policy
Rules & Consequences
- 3 unexcused absences allowed.
- Sit out 1 game quarter per unexcused absence above 3.
- No penalty for absences of games/practices scheduled within 7 days of notification.
Enforcement
Enforcement of the attendance policy will begin on May 12, 2025.
Excused absences
- Religion
- School activities
- Illness/Injury
- Family emergencies
Unexcused absences
- Family vacations
- Attending other sports practices (except Shakopee High School Lacrosse)
- Not notifying a coach of an excused absence.
Association bylaws
Our bylaws outline the governing principles and procedures of the Shakopee Youth Lacrosse Association. They cover topics such as membership, elections, and financial management.