The Shaker Capitals provide programs for girls and boys in Kindergarten through 6th grade. The Capitals are part of the Empire North Lacrosse Association which provides support for developmental programs in the Capital Region. Included is a summary of our programs. Please email us at [email protected] with any additional questions.

Spring Programs:

Learn to Play: A co-ed introductory session for players in Kindergarten. The program only requires a stick and focuses on learning the game of lacrosse and developing fundamentals such as scooping, throwing and catching. The six week program generally runs from the beginning of May to mid-June.

1/2 Program: Independent programs are provided for boys and girls. The programs introduce positions, continue the development of stick skills and games are scheduled against other local programs. The 5 vs 5 games are coach-refereed and do not include goalies. The Boys program includes full equipment such as helmet, gloves, chest protector and elbow pads, and full contact is introduced in a safe and controlled environment. 

3/4 Program: The program continues developing skills learned in earlier programs. The major difference is the introduction of goalies, a 7 vs 7 format, focus on positional responsibilities and enforcement of offsides. Games include hired referees which permits the coaches to focus on player development and game management. 

5/6 Program: More advanced skills are introduced on a bigger field with 9 vs 9 format. Focus is on preparing the players for the modified program in 7th grade.

The 1/2, 3/4 and 5/6 programs generally run from the beginning of May through mid-June. The season has traditionally ended with a tournament at Shaker High School called Decker Day to celebrate the conclusion of the season.