Philosophy & Goals
The SCYL philosophy is all players participate equally (i.e. equal playing time) in all games, on evenly balanced teams (based on player’s grade, age, skill, and experience), playing a local game schedule: Level 6/7/8 (6th, 7th & 8th graders), 4/5 (4th & 5th graders), 2/3 (2nd & 3rd graders) & K/1 (Kindergartners & 1st graders). There are NO ‘A’ or ‘B’ or ‘stacked’ teams.
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Our primary goal is for all players, coaches, parents, officials & and program leaders to have a fun, rewarding experience while always demonstrating sportsmanship on and off the field. Together we learn, share & and teach the fundamental skills and teamwork required to play the game well. Our common objective is for more boys and girls to enjoy youth lacrosse at all levels.
WHY SCYL?
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Girls & Boys Youth Lacrosse Skill Development & Games for Grades 1-8
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Serves all SC Communities
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Volunteer based organization led by parents, coaches, refs and district directors
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Statewide, Independent League that all interested parties can join:
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Rec Departments
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Grade Schools (Public and Private)
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Churches and small Youth Sports Organizations
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Unified coaching philosophy and skills development
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Simplified Format - 6’s
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End of Season State Jamboree
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Focused on growing the game by lowering the barriers to entry, including fees
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Proven model: SCYL is modeled after the the most successful youth leagues in the country
WHY SIXES?
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Smaller rosters
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One coach per team— less volunteer coaches needed
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Simplified rules
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Shorter game times​
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Less fouls
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Faster game play
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Minimal equipment for grades 1-3
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Shorter fields
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Games are played on one half of the field​
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4 teams can practice on one field at a time
Training &
Certification
SCYL provides training, certification & age-specific rules of play for all our member programs, coaches, players & officials with a particular focus on player safety, sportsmanship & fair play for a positive, fun experience for all participants.
SCYL hopes to represent every town in South Carolina. The State will be split in four to six geographic regions with thousands of players competing in 1st to 8th grades.
Coaches
Our coaches are trained to be teachers of the game and role models focused on character development, team camaraderie and players learning the fundamentals—especially the ‘fun’ part. SCYL is an inclusive organization open to all SC communities where, collectively, we strive to provide a safe, enjoyable, learning experience for all participants in an environment NOT swept up in the pressure-filled, win-at-all-cost mania still too common in youth sports today.
Billy Bitter
Parent and Volunteer Coach
As a passionate parent and coach in the South Carolina Youth Lacrosse league, I can't say enough about how wonderful this experience has been for me. The league provides a fantastic opportunity for players of all skill levels to come together and enjoy the sport we love. What's also impressive is the commitment to player development. Coaches and organizers are dedicated to helping players improve their skills sets from mastering fundamentals to learning defensive footwork and elite dodging technique. The sixes format is a great way to maximize touches and play at high speeds without stoppage of play.
Mike & Jessie McGee
K-1st Grade Parents
SCYL has been incredible for our daughter's progression in the sport and her love for the game. The coaching and skills have been fun, approachable, and engaging. She's always excited to go to practice after a long day of school and loves the energy Coach Billy gives every day. We're looking forward to future camps and teams with SCYL!
Emily Johnson
Parent and Volunteer Coach
This is my first season coaching with South Carolina youth lacrosse, and I have nothing but great things to say about the program, and the Director, Taylor Blenckstone. It is clear that the organization is committed to going above and beyond to grow the sport of lacrosse in Charleston. They are willing to pivot at any turn to create opportunities for kids to get more time with a stick in their hand, I am very optimistic for the growth of the sport in Charleston specifically because of this organization.
