What Makes MLC Different?

 1.      Low Cost.

Many local clubs charge thousands of dollars—and often ask for additional money to cover tournament fees.  Our all-in fee for 2026, although not yet finalized, will be less than $1000 (hopefully by a significant margin).  We minimize costs by skipping the luxury items (e.g., high gloss helmets, matching duffel bags), and our administrators and coaches donate countless hours at no cost to families.  There is no business interest part of our program.  We are a true non-profit that is dedicated to creating a high-quality, fun, and competitive lacrosse experience for our players. Families with significant financial constraints should inquire about the availability of financial aid.

 2.   A Real Team.

We aim to develop our players over time and to foster a team-oriented style of play.  Our teams have a consistent core of players and coaches that carries over year-to-year, allowing for steady friendships, chemistry, and team spirit.  We view our annual tryouts as a way to add a few talented new players to our roster (and, in some cases, counsel some players towards more appropriate competition opportunities).  We are not, however, looking to turn over a large percent of the roster every year.  Sports is about relationships, and we manage our roster accordingly.

3.      Summer Is Yours.

Our youth teams typically attend only one summer tournament.  While this decision is based on multiple factors (including the high cost and limited player development benefits of such events), it also means you and your family get a summer.  You’ll get your sun tan at the beach or in the mountains rather than on a sideline—and your child will have more time to experience all the joys of a childhood summer! 

4.      Optional Off-Season Activities.

We hold off-season workouts to build skills, but these sessions are optional to ensure that our players can participate in their fall and winter sports.  We typically schedule a few off-season competitions as well—which, again, are designed to minimize cost to families and maximize the player development opportunities.

5.      Knowledgeable and Experienced Coaches.

Our coaches have real experience at the high school, college, and club levels.  Read about our 2033 Team coaches here.   

6.      Focus on Personal Development.

MLC is about teaching kids how to play the right way—as part of a team. We build well-rounded athletes, we teach about values outside of lacrosse, and we create time for our athletes to have lives off the lacrosse field.  Our goal is to foster a life-long attachment to the game—and that can’t happen if a player becomes too beat up and burnt out before he even reaches high school.

7.      High Level Competition.

We compete at a high level (our 2033 Team played in the AAA level of the GHCLC in 2025).  We play to win—but we don’t put winning over our mission or our values. 

We are excited to add a few new families who share our perspective and approach.  For more information, please also refer to our Club Teams’ Philosophy page, or feel free to reach out to marylandlacrosseclub@gmail.com with any questions.