A beginners guide to grassroots lacrosse in England

The countdown to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics has begun – and one of the Games’ newest additions could become one of Britain’s fastest-growing participation sports

The return of Lacrosse to the Olympic Games at LA28 in its exciting Sixes format offers the sport its biggest platform for generations. In England participation is already rising through universities, junior clubs and community programmes, while governing bodies hope Olympic exposure will challenge outdated stereotypes and inspire more schools to embrace the game.

Grassroots clubs are leading a drive to make lacrosse more accessible and shake off its long-standing “private school” image. Camden Capybaras founder Rob Ingham Clark believes the sport is becoming more inclusive. “The stereotype is still there, but the sport is getting more inclusive,” he says. “What was once reserved for people who had attended private school is now far more wide-reaching. The key is introducing children to a wider range of sports from an early age. You want well-rounded athletes – over-specialisation is a killer,” he says. “You need to fund coaches who can go into schools and make that happen.”

How to play

Lacrosse is a fast, high-scoring invasion sport in which two teams use sticks with netted heads to catch, carry, pass and shoot a solid rubber ball into the opposition’s goal. The Olympic Sixes format features six players per side (including a goalkeeper) playing four eight-minute quarters on a smaller pitch, creating end-to-end action. Teams score one point for every goal, and the side with the most goals at the final whistle wins. Speed, quick passing and constant movement are the keys to success.

Other forms of the sport include Pop lacrosse, a non-contact, introductory version of lacrosse designed specifically for primary schools and beginners, Indoor or Box Lacrosse and Mixed Lacrosse.

What you’ll need

Lacrosse equipment varies by format and position, but every player needs a stick, cleats and a mouthguard, while men’s players also wear a protective cup. Men’s lacrosse requires helmets, gloves and body padding because of contact, while the women’s game uses lighter sticks with protective eyewear. Goalkeepers in both wear full protective kit.

Where to play

Lacrosse is growing rapidly across the UK, with opportunities at schools, universities, junior sections, community clubs and beginner sessions. Many clubs lend equipment and run taster evenings, making it easy to get started. England Lacrosse’s Club Finder helps players locate men’s, women’s, mixed and junior teams nearby.

Brin Kenyon, Greater Manchester Development Officer, says: “People are often surprised by how quickly they can pick up the game. Most clubs are incredibly welcoming, and there’s no perfect athlete for lacrosse – whatever your size or sporting background, there’s a place for you.”

Why now?

With lacrosse returning to the Olympic programme at LA2028, there’s never been a better time to give it a go. The sport is inclusive, highly social and delivers a full-body workout that develops endurance, agility and coordination. “Because lacrosse borrows skills from so many sports, most people can learn the basics quickly and start enjoying it straight away,” says Kenyon.

Ready to pick up stick?

Here are a few clubs to get you started on your lacrosse journey

Brooklands Lacrosse Club, Greater Manchester
A renowned grassroots club with junior, men’s and women’s teams and excellent beginner coaching. Try a taster session.

Spencer Lacrosse Club, London
One of England’s strongest community clubs with junior development and welcoming adult sessions. New players are always welcome.

Panthers Mixed Lacrosse, London
A thriving mixed club where men and women play together in a fun, inclusive environment. Perfect for first-time players.