Important 14U Boys Parent Meeting Recap
THE SITUATION
Last night, 14U families and FYLA board members met to discuss the plans for the upcoming 2025 season. With 26 players currently registered for the 14U spring and summer seasons, we find ourselves in a tough spot. It’s a challenging number — not quite enough for two full teams, but in an ideal world, too many for just one. Unfortunately, it’s one of those situations that’s largely out of our control, and we know it’s frustrating. The board has been actively working to find a solution that, while not perfect, will cause the least disruption and give our players the best possible experience. We truly appreciate your patience and understanding as we navigate this together. Below is the breakdown of what was shared at that meeting.
• Spring season will move forward with one team of 24 players (2 players are ineligible as they're playing on the 10A high school team).
• There is NOT A FULLTIME GOALIE at this age level. Players will be expected to rotate.
• We know that options like cutting players or designating some as "practice only" would help us get to cleaner roster numbers—but as a board, we feel strongly about welcoming all Farmington youth who show an interest in lacrosse. We’re not here for registration fees; we’re here to get kids playing lacrosse.
LOOKING AHEAD TO SUMMER
FYLA board voted and made the decision to roster one team of 26 players, using the updated participation/play time guidelines (see slides link below).
• We know cutting players, or making some players "Practice Only Players", would get us to our desired numbers, but as a board, we feel strongly about welcoming all Farmington youth that show an interest in the sport. We don't want the registration money, we want kids to play lacrosse.
• Pulling up 12U (and then subsequently 10U) players is not an option, as it will create the same odd roster numbers at those age levels.
• YLM has new rules and will not allow FYLA to roster two B teams, as we have done in the past. One team would be A, one would be B, which means players cannot be easily shared between teams when numbers are low.
• FYLA is looking to add two additional tournaments to increase games and play time.
CONTINUED EXPLORATION
Following thoughtful conversations last night, the FYLA Board is open to exploring the possibility of rostering two teams—provided certain conditions can be met.
Over the past several months, the board has worked diligently to recruit through every available channel—past registration lists, community networks and signage, social media outreach, and more. At this point, we recognize that the most effective way to grow the program is through the personal outreach and enthusiasm of our current players and families. We are asking current players and families to help recruit at least six additional players by April 14 (to meet the deadline for registering teams with YLM).
We deeply value everyone's perspectives and appreciate the dedication to building something great together. Please note that team formation will also depend on securing coaching support and uniforms. The uniform order deadline has already passed, so if we are able to form an additional team, we will do our best to outfit players appropriately, but options may be limited.
Further details in meeting slides.