Discussion thread regarding the For the Love of the Game Lacrosse club.

I want to know why fl$ is so much more expensive than the other clubs?

Supply and demand for a very high quality program in a lax crazy area? Also, they only have one team per grade so they do not have the revenue support of 2 or 3 teams per grade like their main competitor Express.

regardless they call themselves a non-profit and they are charging more than anyone else.
a bit nuts.

While they have boys teams from 2012 down to the 2017 age groups, they only have two girls teams : one for the 2012 and one for the 2017 groups. Are they going to expand into other girls age groups?

On pricing, there guys are $1700.00 which is about $500.00 more expensive than others. Now, their June camp is included for five days which might explain the difference. Any feedback on their camp? Not exactly sure that it draws anyone outside of the club based on the web sites.

Tryout - $125
Registration - $1700
Tournament Fees - $600

Total - $2,425

Not-For Profit?????

Ouch...I'm sure this post is not part of the fl$ marketing plan! Aside from the cost...it seems to be a well respected program - at least in the higher grades.

high quality program?
supply and demand?
fl$ DEMANDS more money and the dilussional parents SUPPLY it.
is that what you mean?
fl$ does nothing more than Express, 91 etc. and yet they charge a lot more $
One good team 8th and a gtreat team at 11th grade. Thats it.

And the girls teams are very week as well. It's as if the girls are an after thought.

Who has a gun to your head forcing your kid to play for fl$? If they can get it, more power to them...if not, they will meet the market...

$1.700 for registration plus $600 for additional tourney fees?
What the [lacrosse] does the $1,700 actually cover?

My son plays for the 2012 fl$ team and if it wasn't for them he wouldn't have made it to the college he is going to now. They have there own recruiting pages through there website that the player can set up there own profile and send it to college coaches. The older teams are 1300$. We had to high quality coaches that wern't PARENTS. They have a full time worker for the company. They have have spent numerous hours contacting college coaches for my son. Learn the facts before you open your mouth.

looks like you should have gone to college and learned how to spell.

fl$ does nothing more than any of the local travel teams except charge a heck of a lot more money.

Yet there are other kids on the same team who they have not helped who have had to go outside of fl$ to help them

Anonymous = Incredulous

Man up and register, accountability matters.

You have a very direct comment for someone who knows nothing about the club. My daughter, one of the "weak" ones you describe is on the 2017 team. Considering this team just came together in a few weeks before the season, with players that had not traveled before, they did very well. The made it to 3rd place at Lax By The Sea in their very first tournament beating Liberty Black. They also went to finals on other tournaments. We had one day where we did not play well and our goalie was sick that day. As far as the price, yes, they are expensive. All I can say is that we absolutely loved our coaches. Our parents were all nice and got along. Some of us are now personal friends outside of the club. Everyone could not do enough for each other and the kids. The program is well run and very professional. The amount of items our child received was unbelievable including a winter apparel package. Everything was a name brand name and very well made. Overall it was a fantastic experience for may daughter who is now practicing hard with a private coach for tryouts because there is no other club for her but fl$. The bottom line is the girls were coached the right way. Everyone got in the game and the kids had fun.

What the heck are you doing talking about girls lacrosse at 3 in the morning? Get a life.

My son plays for fl$ and he has had a wonderful experience. Yes the cost seems. Higher than some of the programs but the tournaments were outstanding. They were not based on "winning" as much as going to the best tournaments to be seen by coaches. I looked at other programs previous years tournaments and decided fl$ was the best before he tried out. They offer community service opportunities and leadership with older players working as role models with younger players. I think you need to pick a program that fits for your son/daughter and your wallet. fl$ has been a pleasure!

Thanks For the Love of the Game Parent who can afford the $2,500. I just looked at the rosters. fl$ = Affluent Neighborhoods - Garden City, Manhasset, Cold Spring Harbor, etc. fl$ = For the Love of The Green $$$$$

I would not be able to afford their fee but I do not have a problem with people that can. Its their money and can do what they want with it.It seems to me you may be a little jealous of the "affluent ".

Not jealous at all and I can afford the fee. I just find it a joke they actually call themselves For the Love of the Game. It's pretty obnoxious actually that they are the most expensive program in all of travel lacrosse and still say it's for the love of the game.

So, you judge things based on their name. Brilliant!

Well Anonymous, we thank you for your valued opinion and please write again as we hang on to your every word in order to be able to continue living.

What I do at 3 in the morning is none of your business.
This forum is for constructive comments about lacrosse stop starting trouble.

Yes, exactly a pleasure! Don't knock it cause it seems expensive...other clubs have little start up fees but you end up spening money for a "sports package" and fees too.....they are doing everything they can to build up a quality program.

There are plenty of QUALITY programs that don't charge an arm and a leg to play, so again I ask you - why should anyone pay that kind of money?

You are asking a subjective question : how are you measuring the value of a particular program? BOTC has been shining the light on program costs while also providing discussion threads about the features of each program. Those combined allow the readers to decide on overall value.

There is NO reason to think that fl$ is any better than any of the other top programs around - express, 91, Team LI, Outlaws.
There is no proof of that on the field.

Depends on what constitutes "better"

From my experience, fl$ doesn't rate itself solely on how many games it wins. Everyone likes to win but that does not define who they are. There were never any misrepresentations of what the program was about or how much it was going to cost.

These were the main points at the Organization Meeting right after tryouts:
- The only way you get into a great school is with great grades.
- Community service is a requirement (they provide opportunities).
- Your school team before fl$.
- Good sportsmanship is a requirement.
- Polite and courteous behavior off the field while representing fl$ is a requirement

If that is an organization you would like to be associated with then tryout. If not, don't tryout.

Excellent post - certainly words of wisdom welcome for the BOTC College Board. Thanks for the contribution.

Summer results were posted on the For the Love of the Game web site.

Overall nice performances this year - particularly strong were the Boys 2012, Boys 2014, Boys 2015, Boys 2017, and Girls 2017/2018 (as they get into the girls side of development).

Very interesting community service requirement - something many more colleges are seeking in freshman activities.

For The Love Of Money
Are You kidding me Non For Profit

A little education for you. Non-Profit does not mean you can't make money. They can't have a "profit" at the end of they year. The way they don't have a profit is by using the money for salaries and expenses. The American Red Cross is a non-profit, their CEO makes over $400,000 per year. His salary is an expense.

So If fl$ Guys took ARC CEO Job They would have to take a pay Cut

Anyone have any info on fl$ 2018 team for this year? My son is trying out. Word is, team is already set with CSH kids, along with a few others, hand picked by a certain coaches brother. (hoping it's just a silly rumor) I'd really hate to waste my son's time and talent, along with my $, on a tryout that's already in the bag.

The pay cut remark is very funny.

That said, between my 2 sons, I have been involved with 3 travel organizations and in my opinion fl$ was by far the best.
- Best coaching
- great competition
- very friendly parents
- most organized with tournament and hotel bookings
- best facility to upload college recruiting info
- best community service opportunities
- great all around attitude

The price tag is very high compared to other teams. It is also very possible to have a great experience with a less costly organization. I just think fl$ provides that on a more consistent basis.

I may not be able to afford fl$ this year but I will certainly always have good things to say about them. At least now I have a better knowledge of what to look for should I go elsewhere.

The rumor has always been that all the boys teams are pre set prior to tryouts. Do not know that for a fact but it is what has been told to me.

Not a rumor.

It really is unfortunate that Anonymous people can spew unfounded antagonistic comments.

From a registered user that has actually been involved with the organization, I can tell you my son made an fl$ team without prejudice. We never met or spoke to anyone from fl$ prior to the tryout.

The best thing to do is call a director of a program and ask them yourself. Make a list of all your hard nosed questions and then make your own judgement by how they respond.

That's good to hear, I was thinking about signing my son up for the tryout but people have told me it is a waste of time. Good to hear from someone who is involved and I will sign him up now.

does anyone know how many players the for the love of green 2016 team needs? i guess some of the kids are going to barracudas. any info would be appreciated

My son played for the 2016 team last summer. Three from that team are playing on Express Orange and at least 1 is on Express Blue. Two others are going to Team 91.

thank you for the feedback. i heard there was a lot of talent on the team last yr, but some parents were not happy. not sure what the issues were.

For the tryout fee, one of the founders is sending out an email to all who signed up to make sure they are trying out still. If they don't and want to give up the spot for someone on the waiting list, please let them know. By the way, the $125 you paid to tryout IS NOT REFUNDED! Seems to be a very good "Not for Profit". You can look them up to see how much they made, as a designeated and approved Not for Profit. Made at least mid 6 figures!

$125.00 for someone to look at your kid at a tryout? That is the highest pricing that we have seen reported to BOTC. At some point, you have to decide what constitutes value-for-money at these tryouts and you, the people who are consumers for this market, will control the pricing by supporting clubs that offer a price point that is acceptable.

Remember that not-for-profit is a tax filing status, not a statement that money is not being made.

Wow!!!! $125 for a 6th grade girl to try out?? That's ridiculous. PLUS $1700 annual fee! That $1825 bag should have diamonds on it!

The girls teams are absolutely terrible!! This is a waste of your MONEY

They are? Not really, you should check the stats before you open your mouth. The girls did very well last year considering that team was put together at the last minute coming in 3rd - only one team away from playing YJ Blue. We had one bad day in Penn because our goalie was sick. Going to semi finals at LaxFest also. Don't listen to this person. Girls teams were wonderful to be on. Great coaches, great parents, great kids. If you can't afford it don't try out.

There was a lot of talent on the 2016 team last year. The main issue that some parents had was the lack of practice once middles school lax was over.

Girls teams were absolutely horrible. Are you serious mentioning how well they did at LI Lax Fest? Who did they play? They were constantly put in the weakest divisions.

You obviously must have seen them if you feel so comfortable to comment on the status of their skills. So, don't you know who they played? They beat Liberty Black in New Jersey and they made the semi-finals at Lax Fest. They only had one weak team they played in their group. They played Team Elevate and beat them and Express. There were no YJ teams or any team on that level playing there. No, they were not terrible. Should I post some video? Why do you sound so hostile? These are children we are talking about. There is room for everyone here on Long Island to play in a variety of teams. I look at these boards every day and, I am amazed how serious people take all of this. The bottom line is that the girls on our team played very well, made new friends, loved their coaches and have been training together since July. Fun + learning = Great Lacrosse Experience.

great post

Don't worry about all the nasty people out there. It's great to see girls at whatever level, playing, making friends and enjoying themselves. This forum is a bit of a crazy place where some parents want to stick it in your face. Some people don't get it,there is an attitude that exists out there that if your daughter isn't on YJ Blue, why even waste her time playing? (or whatever elite A team you want to stick in there). Love your quote "Fun + learning = Great Lacrosse Experience."

Thank you for the nice words. Actually a few parents from that team have noticed the nasty remarks, I just think its uncalled for. There are ways to project an opinion without sinking to that level in a public forum about 11 and 12 year old kids. I am pretty sure I know where that person is from....sour grapes. Fun + learning = Great Lax Experience!

Just left the girls tryout for 2018, yikes. Wish I didn't fork over $125, talent was limited and turnout was terrible. Live and learn I guess. Hopefully Liberty will be better, my daughter didn't make Top Guns (huge talent pool) and Yellow Jackets is an issue with distance.

Yes, I was there also, there didn't seem to be alot of girls for 2018 but the 2017 team looked great.

You mean all of the emails that fl$ sent out about try out spots filling up and only a few were left were not true?

Anyone have any idea about the number of kids, and or talent pool for 2018 boys try outs this weekend?

Anyone know how the 2016 team is going to look this year? Any good talent at tryouts?

I don't know about all the kids but from the names I heard that made the 2018 boys team that should be very good.

Nothing on the website yet - curious where you heard these names? Do you know if all the boys who made the 2018 team have been contacted?

How's 2016 going to be?

just word of mouth from a few kids in my home town - nothing official - they are probably going down the list like every other team until they get their commitments and team gets filled.

By calling yourself 420lax you are anonymous too! So stop with the comments about being anonymous--use your name!

Registered Users have given personal information to BOTC. As far as this forum is concerned that is all that is required. It adds credibility to the post. Anonymous can be used by anyone to start false rumors or be antagonistical. The only time I bring up the registered user vs anonymous comments is when I think someone is doing just that.

You don't have to agree with me on anything. The point is to express ideas and opinions to help improve our lacrosse environment. When I know someone is posting garbage, I'll call them out on it. If for some crazy reason the posts get out of hand, BOTC will have a much easier time getting a hold of me then they will you.

I think the advantage of the screen name is you get a continuity of the posts by that screen name and you know who you are talking to or arguing with - with everybody posting as "anonymous" you kind of lose who it is you are talking to you, replying to a post you made, ect.

2016 Boys team looks to be good. There was some turnover (a few went to 91 and a fewe to Express) but there is a very good core remaining. Goalies will be two of the top two anywhere. One Middie might not lose a face off all season

If they lost a few kids and didn't add anyone, it will not be a very good team. That 2016 was mediocre at best last summer.

fl$ 2018 looks like a pretty good team. Kids from Express Orange, 91 Orange and team LI, are on the team. Might not be a super team, but should be very competitive. Congrats to the boys who made it. Also, many thanks to fl$ folks who notified people right away. Everything handled quickly, and professionally!!

Rosters are up...

My son is going to try out for the fl$ 2015 boys team (first time) at the end of November. However, on the fl$ calendar the 2015 boys team is entered in a tournament at Hofstra. How would that work when the team hasn't been made up yet? Is it just the kids from this past summer who have not decided to to play elsewhere yet? BTW, same goes for some of the other older teams - tournaments prior to the tryouts.

2016 looks to be better than last year

I think they picked up better game changers but then their second and third line of middies are weaker than last year for sure. They have some weak kids who I believe should not have made the team considering fl$'s high expectation of players

It better. Last year's team was mediocre at best.

I don't understand your math....a few kids left so obviously added a few...much more size and speed this year than last year...in the OB Spring league last year, the 2016 team lost 2 games, both to the Raiders by one goal. Far from mediocre. One bad tournament at Tri State - where they tied Team 91, lost to an older Laxachussets team and then had a six hour wait until the next game.

yeah, i agree 2016 should be very competitive this year

They had a very good caliber of kids on 2016, but they werent as athletic or fast as barracudas. But, they had great game knowledge and stick skills. That's what it comes down to in the end.

How'd they do in the play offs at TriState and who did they play in the OBLL last spring? They didn't play 91 in OBLL.

How did they look this weekend?

I think they were one of the teams on Saturday. My sons team played on Sunday and we went undefeated for 91. But, all of the tough teams played on Saturday, such as Outlaws, Radiers, Express, etc. So they must have had some competition because I recall asking my sons coach what is with the lack of competition and he said all of the tough teams play on Saturday.

Why did 91 not get to play the tougher teams? They usually do- no?

91 2018 Orange wasn't at same tourney as fl$

How did the fl$ 2015 boys do in the Blue & Gold Hofstra tournament? If they haven't lost too many kids I would guess they did pretty well. Not sure if Express Orange was there.

Express 2018 Orange was not at the same tournament either. Who did the 2018 fl$ play?This being the first year of this fl$ team it was formed with players from other teams that left.Many of them making the B teams at other organizations.I am sure you will see this team grown and drop some of these players when the get a few more to leave or get cut from the A team from elsewhere.

Not sure where your info is coming from? There are a number of kids on this 2018 team that played on Express Orange, 91 Orange and Team LI A team last year. As well as a couple that played up on fl$ 2017 team last year. Along with others from Cold Spring, GC and Manhassett. Not exactly B team kids. This is not a crazy over the top win at all cost team. It's much more about individual developement and being a team. fl$ is about having the kids grow as players at this age.(more intense as they get older) They are much more even handed about playing time. Not as concerned about winning the Summer Lax Blast 6th grade "made up" Championship. Will they beat 91 or Express? Who cares, it's 6th grade! Will they be better players and not burnt out? Absolutely! Will some of the best 2018 players from 91 and Express try out next year for fl$? YES.
Here's a little education for you. If you think you're son is showing up at a tryout for Express or 91 with 150++ other kids and making one of their 2018 Orange teams, think again. It is a fact, any kid who made one of those teams this year (2018)who was not on the team last year was either asked before the tryout to play, or had some other in. These two teams in particular started looking at, and approching kids for this year, before thier summer seasons where even over last year.

My son (2018) did not play for express or 91 last year and had the exact same connections both of them as well as fl$ and that was none, except for knowing town friends on 91 and express, we never got recruited or contacted by anybody in the organization, but since he is just an OK player I would have been shocked if anybody did reach out to us.

my son wanted to try out for all three teams and that was the plan until he made express orange, once he made that team we decided not to try for the others because this was were he wanted to play, so far we could not be happier, great kids, great parents and great coaching. Honestly if 91 or fl$ tryout had been first we would have tried out and if he made one of those teams he probably would have played there but we are so happy that it worked out the way it did. so please don't state your opinion as "FACT" it is just an opinion like everybody else.

Your son, who you say is just "ok" and he made 2018 Orange?? That's amazing... Best of luck, I stand corrected.

His being OK was not the point, my point was that not every kid was recruited as you said as fact, and as far as my kid being just OK, he is 11 and they all are OK. he is also OK in school at xbox and soccer, he is 11 and it is hard to imagine any kid being considered anything but OK.

I would put many express and 91 B teams against most clubs A teams and have very competetive games. Being what you call a B team kid is not as terrible as you guys make it sound. These kids are 11 for christs sake..get a grip on your uber vicarious living through your children. My sons B team has tons of fun, and at this age that is all that matters isn't it? Or am I wrong?

Gents relax. I'm on your side. I was just responding to the guy who was bad mouthing the fl$ team. I got a little fired up. If your son made the Orange exp team, congrats. Excellent coaching, might be best 6th grade team anywhere. B team guy, no disrespect. This whole summer thing should be about kids getting better at the sport they love, A or B its all good. Like I said above, its 6th grade. Who cares?

I was not bad mouthing the team at all!Fact, this is the first year fl$ of this team because of the age group.So makes sense that it is made up of some players from other teams. I happen to know many of the kids and parents and my son also tried out and made the team....so thats where my info came from!! Fact...this team will have many more players come from other programs in the future,it is the nature of the process players leave and tryout and move for various reasons.

I think he was talking about Oyster Bay from 2011 for 2016.

yes because 91 plays in the A division while fl$ plays in AA

AA brackets are fairly new to the scene. Not all tournaments use the AA rating but it is catching on. Why not? Isn't 11 louder than 10?

Team 91 Orange teams play in the same brackets as Express Orange, Outlaws Black and fl$ so I don't understand your comment.

How did fl$ do at the Fall Haverford Tournament this weekend?

Anybody know when the fl$ 2015 roster will be posted? I don't have a son on the team but I'd like to see the names. All of the other teams are posted so hopefully this one will be too. Thanks.

2015 roster is posted on the fl$ webiste

fl$ 9th/10th graders are at the Tri-State Holiday Shoot-Out Christmas Tournament in Hightstown, N.J. Also competing in the 9th-10th grade tourney are two teams each from Tri-State and the Duke’s Lacrosse Club (PA) as well as the Hermits (St. Augustine, NJ).

Teams
A- Tri-State 1 (Red)
B- Dukes Blue
C- Dukes Green
D- Tri-State 2 (Green)
E- Hermits
F- fl$

Wednesday’s Games
11:00 AM- Tri-State 2 vs. Hermits
11:35 AM- Tri-State 1 vs. Tri-State 2
12:10 PM- Dukes Green vs. Hermits
12:45 PM – Dukes Blue vs. Tri-State 2
1:20 PM – fl$ vs. Tri-State 1
1:55 PM – Dukes Green vs. Tri-State 2
2:30 PM- Dukes Blue vs. fl$
3:05 PM- Dukes Green vs. Tri-State 1
3:40 PM- Dukes Blue vs. Hermits
4:15 PM – Dukes Green vs. fl$
4:50 PM – Dukes Blue vs. Tri-State 1
5:25 PM- fl$ vs. Hermits

Thursday – Playoffs
10:00AM- GAME 1- SEED 4 V SEED 5
10:35 – GAME 2-SEED 3 V SEED 6
11:10 – LOSER GAME1 V LOSER GAME 2
11:45- WINNER GAME 1 V 1 SEED
12:20PM- WINNER GAME 2 V 2 SEED
12:55 – CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

scores? - 2017 also in NJ - 3-0 beat express 11-1

Calm down, it was the Express E team.

I just found out that on top of the $1700 fee to fl$, we have to pay another fee for each of the 4 summer tournaments. Another $350. Are these guys kidding? What am I paying $1700 for???? fl$ is a rip off!

Well, I think you guys did have "one" practice so far in 2012...

You are obviously not part of fl$ (nor am I)and have way too much time on your hands.

HUH?

I don't believe anyone involved with fl$ is ignorant to the fact that tournament fees are NOT included in the $1,700.00. They are doing more than 4 tournaments and it is going to cost way more than $350.00.

If you think fl$ is a rip off, fine. Just make a case with facts so it's credible.

I find it amazing that someone like Lacrosse Magazine would highlight MW as someone who is changing youth sports "for the better." MW claims in the article that he "he didn't like what was going on in the pay for play model" and that is why he started fl$. Are you kidding me? You are the "pay for play" model. You took money form "key contributors" and put their kids on teams when other more talented kids got cut. You are the most expensive "pay for play" program on Long Island.

MW "doesn't believe in travel lacrosse until the 7th grade." This is such hypocritical garbage. What about your teams below 7th grade? What about fl$ lite?

MW also wants to take credit for his "charity" work done for the Roosevelt program. Maybe lacrosse magazine should check with it's own local board at the Long Island Metropolitan Lacrosse Foundation to see who really helped the Roosevelt kids. Charlie Russo is the person who really helped Roosevelt.

BOTC felt it would be appropriate to reproduce the text of the full article regarding Mike Winkoff to provide a fair and balanced view. The article highlights Mr. Winkoff as one of the Top Ten people in the Lacrosse Community making a difference.

Reprinted from Lacrosse Magazine, January 2012, Page 59

MIKE WINKOFF, Age 50
Resides in Massapequa, N.Y.
Affiliations : For the Love of the Game, Lax4All
Day Job : Owner, Pioneer Mortgage Network, Inc.

Roosevelt (N.Y.) High School graduated notables like NBA Hall of Famer Julius Erving, shock jock Howard Stern, comedian and actor Eddie Murphy and hip hop artist Busta Rhymes. The redominantly black Long Island school has had its share of standouts in football, baseball and track and field — but never lacrosse.

Mike Winkoff hopes to change that. Roosevelt is at the center of his not-for profit Lax4All program that spawned in 2009 out of For the Love of the Game, the select organization he formed in 2006.

“I watched my son play football against Roosevelt,” Winkoff said. “I thought, ‘Wouldn’t it be great if these kids had the opportunity to play lacrosse?’” Winkoff’s son Corey rose through the lacrosse ranks and graduated from Penn last year second among the school’s all-time assists leaders. But not
everyone gets the same opportunities.

“I didn’t like what was going on with pay for-play,” Winkoff said. “I got out when Corey made the Empire team. We started our own program.”

Winkoff’s team played with L.I. Select on its uniforms for one season, but changed them to fl$ to reflect its true purpose. fl$ fields top teams — they won the US Lacrosse U15 Boys’ National Championship last year — but also focuses on off-field development.

“It’s based in education,” Winkoff said. “We give them tutoring. They must do community service.” fl$ has grown from three teams in 2006 to six boys’ and five girls’ teams from seventh grade to rising seniors.

Such opportunities did not exist in Roosevelt before Winkoff created Lax4All. It started modestly with one PAL team, and then grew to two PAL teams in 2010. A middle school team formed last year, and a JV team is in the works. Winkoff envisions a varsity team in the foreseeable future. “We’re trying to do this throughout the country,” he said. “We want to not just do it in African-American communities, but in communities that don’t have the game. These kids love it.”

This summer, Winkoff will unveil his newest youth program, fl$ Lite. Players cut from youth travel teams will receive qualified coaching and strong competition. “We don’t believe you should start playing travel until seventh grade,” Winkoff said. “They’ll all play.”

In four decades coaching, Winkoff has seen the opportunities lacrosse brings if people are given chances to play. “It makes you grow when you work with them,” Winkoff said. “I’ve always had the passion because I love coaching kids.”

Here's the facts:
-This is our first year on fl$
-I have no axe to grind with fl$ or the staff (i'm not an LI Express spy)
-Never had to pay additional tournament fees (other than travel and hotels of course) on previous teams.
-No mention of additional fees at sign up (Find it on website if you can)
In fact at website under "fl$ Experience" includes at least 4 tournaments along with all the free swag No mention of additional fees Go ahead and look http://www.leaguelineup.com/newsitem.asp?url=4theloveofthegame&itemid=2873337.

So to keep it simple
!. fl$ costs more than any other team +
2. Tournament fees not included and not made known ahead of time=
3. fl$ is a rip off (at least compared to every other team on LI)

Is that more credible?

Credible is doing a comparison against another club with an apples-to-apples, line by line comparison. It is completely unfair to suggest that a program that is more expensive is a "rip off". Similarly, you should be comfortable asking how much the program costs "all in".

This is one of the beauties of BOTC in that we allow for these types of consumer cost comparisons to be done in the open for the benefit of the parents purchasing these services.

he says he didn't like what was going on with pay for play so he started an overpay for play organization? I am not part of fl$ and everybody that I know that is involved with fl$ loves the team and the organization but I don't get what he didn't like about what was going on with pay for play, was it that they they didn't charge enough? or that people don't know how to pick there own charities to donate to and that by paying all this money to fl$ they can have Mr. Winkoff decide what charities needs your donation?

Ok if you don't like the term "rip off" , how about "disproportionally high priced compared to the relevant market for youth lacrosse travel teams in the LI area" and "lacks full disclosure in it's pricing" ?

Does that display sufficient amount of nuance in my choice of language?

Let others be the judge, but I think "rip off" captures it rather succinctly.

Sorry you did not see it coming. I really just don't know how it's possible you missed it.

Any other fl$ families unaware of this before signing on? Past or present.

Every club seems to operate a little bit differently. Is this information somewhere on the website? My kids don't play for this club, but I was keenly aware of exactly what was included. If this info is not available on the website or printed litature then the club is to blame. If it is, you have no reason to complain for not doing your homework.

My son is on fl$ and has played for a few years with them. At tryout time, the website did say that tournaments are not included with the fee....while it may be more expansive than some clubs, the fee does include a week of camp during the summer. The camp is very well run and a lot of fun for the boys.

So they "force" you to pay for the camp upfront as part of their registration fee? Wow!!

nobody is FORCING anyone to do anything. You have a choice, you are either going to register you kid to play for them or you aren't. Most kids enjoy playing and going to camp with the kids they play with so having an fl$ camp isn't a bad thing. If your child is playing for an elite/travel team then you are obviously into lacrosse for everything you can get from it, you say "force" like you weren't planning on sending your child to a summer camp.

are you "forced" to pay for the camp even if you do not want to attend or can not attend? are you forced to pay for the camp in order to play for fl$? depending on the answers to those questions would then determine if you are "forced" to pay for the camp

no matter what the answers are you aren't being forced to play for fl$. There are plenty of other options out there you can just go play for another team that doesn't "force" you to pay for camp.

the questions remain, can you play for fl$ and not attend the camp or not pay for it or are you "Forced" to pay for the camp if you want to play for fl$, LAXMOM your condescending posts and answers are ridiculous, we all know we do not have to play for fl$ but some of us might want play for fl$ and just not have to pay for the camp of the charities that the directors force upon you if you want to be on this particular club. I have way too much respect for women to believe that you are a lax mom, you gotta be a dude

The camp is something that is included in the registration fee. So from your point of view, it seems you that you think that with all clubs you are forced to where their uniforms, helmets, forced to use their practice fields, their coaches. It is a choice of where you play, and each club, includes different things in their fee.

True - but some organizations do have options, LIExpress gives you the option of buying a helmet, gloves and shooting shirt but you do not need or have to buy them, and I understand that the cost will include certain basic things that you mentioned, you need a jersey to play on the team but you do not need to go to the camp and you do not need to donate money to charity

Understood - price includes camp and it is known up front that it does. They are not hiding it, if you don't agree with it, you don't have to play or go to the camp. They don't force you to donate to charity. In fact, as a 501(c)(3) organization, any monies given to fl$ be it for registration, can qualify as a tax deduction....after tax cost of fl$ may actually be cheaper than most clubs.

ok we get it you think fl$ is too expensive..man talk about beating a dead horse. They cost X amount which includes a camp...like the previous post said..can you pay less for express if you dont attend 3 practices? or are you "forced" to pay for all of them. The camp is included in the price just as the express price includes 10 practices..whether you attend is up to you but it is included. Holy cow can you really be this dense?
Why do so many people from the express love to point out what they consider to be flaws in every other club? If everyone on this board tells you that the express is by far the best lacrosse club in the world and your player must be amazing to part of such an esteemed organization, will you let the camp thing go?

A full page of one person complaining about the cost of one club. There is a list of other clubs down the side of this page....find the less expensive alternative and move on. Don't want to pay for camp, don't want to give to charity, don't want to stop complaining about fl$...they will be lucky to get rid of you. You are probably the same parent who complains about playing time and coaching.

fl$ also has a Girls 2016 team.

Any truth to speculation that fl$ won't have their 2015 boys play against Express Orange because so many fl$ boys tried to switch sides? A bunch of fl$ kids tried out for Express but few if any Express Orange tried out for fl$. Interesting. Curious why so many were ready to jump the fl$ ship but clearly the boat wasn't big enough for everybody. Save that discussion for another time. There is nobody else on the Island in the league of either team so they need to play eachother more than just in Florida - and that's a maybe anyway. At least a few scrimmages are in order this summer.

Express tryouts were early so a lot of kids from a lot of teams tried out fl$ kids might have tried out because spots were not guaranteed, by the time fl$ tried out express players had already made deposits. As far as not playing each other, it seems to be the trend on Long Island, because they are in such a competition for players that the top organizations are not playing each other on a lot of age groups. the kids are the loser in that situation.

Exactly, Express waited to announce tryout dates and not surprisingly scheduled them before the other teams. They also made the kids commit before the other teams's tryout dates.

Seems like this worked very well for the Express - picked off one or two fl$ kids and also collected a lot of deposit money from panicked fl$ parents. I blame fl$ for this after they were disappointed with performance versus Express last summer and told everybody to go ahead and try out for other teams because nothing was guarenteed. Where did they think they were going to get better players than what they already had? What if Express had taken more than one or two? Will be interesting to see if there are any changes in the tryout process this year. There has to be a better way without so much anxiety and turmoil. U15 in FL will tell if they upgraded the 2015 squad or not. You can bet the Express is feeling pretty good about their chances to take fl$'s crown.

The 2016 girls team struggled at shamrock they even lost to YJ 2018

OMG give them a break its a new team and their first time together with no practice.

fl$ tryouts for 2013- were predetermined before the tryouts.
Originally they capped tryouts at 69 kids. This year over 100.
They hired a new coach from hot shots who who brought 5 kids for 2017.
They knew some boys didn't stand a chance but still encouraged them to try-

Does anyone from 2017 know some of dads and the director had a pow wow?to discuss how bad some of the kids were ?

Anyone who played last year knows the attack from manhasset was a bully with a mouth , fl$ we place importance on being a family?! Where was that value last year?

2017 had one coach , paid for two?! No explanation

One tournament , no coach ??? He was stuck in traffic

A lot of bs is said with fl$ but if ur gonna hold a tryout make it a tryout
Be fair, don't seek out players from your town!

Shame , shame

On charging so much and not even havin the courtesy of a phone call to tell the child thanks but we went with someone else?!
Thanks for leaving kids hanging/////
Love waking up a child and telling him he wasn't good enough
For the team they already had picked out in August.


So disappointed
Yes we all want to win
But quite frankly none of your teams did well last year

Maybe if it wasn't about the money the coaches would have done their jobs.

Wow - right on the money!

Wow - that cuts deep. I've heard similar stories about fl$.

It's not true

Cus anyone who watched the 2017 team knows their attackman from manhasset if foul, loudmouth and curses at his own teammates. Not once was he ever punished or taken out of the game by his coach. Its to bad,,,, they let a Lil kid be such a hot dog

Talent or no talent he's a selfish player

Where was the fl$ philosophy then?

Be very, very, very, very, careful with giving tax advice. You obviously do not know what you are talking about and can get this team in a heap of trouble.

8th graders losing to 6th graders. Facts are facts.

Ok this is it. Let's be clear, TAX EVASION means you take the fl$ cost and put it on your tax return as a deductible cost per this IDIOTS advice . Here is this IDIOTS quote:
"Understood - price includes camp and it is known up front that it does. They are not hiding it, if you don't agree with it, you don't have to play or go to the camp. They don't force you to donate to charity. In fact, as a 501(c)(3) organization, any monies given to fl$ be it for registration, can qualify as a tax deduction....after tax cost of fl$ may actually be cheaper than most clubs:"
This is TAX EVASION The IDIOT who posted this could be liable for all of this. Great going!!! Be careful, you are indeed liable for your statements!!!!! Do not take tax advice blind posts!

Yes..the organization has changed. It was all predetermined and unfair. What happen to the love of the game...

Thanks for the $125, and no, we won't even give you a courtesy call or email, thanking you for the donation, if you didn't make the team...doesn't sound like a "love of the game" type organization...

Why does everyone think fl$ is an acronym for "for love of the game" it is really "for love of the GREEN"

Predetermined - - what age group and what positions? There was a large pool of talent at the tryouts last weekend, with kids from many different clubs there.

Altruistic intentions early then overtaken by success and greed - has been human nature for thousands of years. The directors are making quite a nice life for themselves from this non-profit.

2017 and 2018 girls a walk on team again this year. Despite the rumor probably started by housefro who thinks her son or daughter is a superstar- there is no "cap" on how many kids can tryout. Bottom line- spend $2125 and your precious child gets a uniform and a keychain.

Did anyone say there wasn't talent.
Maybe you should read-

Before you answer

Everyone knows wink met with parents over the summer. Because their kids are so talented and they discussed who should be cut and who should stay,
This is what happens wihen certain people brag about what they said and didn't say to wink


And when you bring a coach from a team that folded -hot shots- and bring 5 players

Then I'd say the team was pretty much predetermined

A spade is a spade!
Read

Sorry Mr Anonymous' but It is not difficult to figure out which parent wrote this. I have no problem with these blogs criticizing clubs or questioning directors but there is nothing lower or more classless then when an adult publicly attacks and insults a 13yr old. You should be very embarrassed. Your son wasn't cut because the fl$ tryouts were fixed - your son didn't make the team because a better player took his place. That's lax on Long Island, get over it.
No program is perfect but the fact that fl$ 2017 was able to retain their top core players despite a mixed season last year speaks volumes.

Very disappointed in Wink..He didn't do the right thing and crushed many kids. A lot of kids stuck it out on teams that were not refined, and unfortunately, a lot of good talent was hindered by the bad. Great job!!! Wink...The fl$ loves the buck!!

predetermined and fixed..call a spade a spade.

Oh isn't that great!!!! not...

I'm glad others are starting to call him out on this stuff. He takes credit for everything and the blame for nothing. He even takes credit for a kids college recruiting when he did NOTHING to help him. To top it off he has his own people nominate him for a US Lacrosse award that is an absolute crock. Once again taking credit for things he should not. The program was very good in the beginning and has now gone backwards. They charge New [lacrosse] Yankee prices for Houston Astros baseball.

Sorry to hear that your experience was not a good one with fl$. We have experienced not making teams, gossiping parents, fixed tryouts and unbelievable politics, but NOT with fl$. They do promote good values to the kids and I agree that fl$ should have called the kids that did NOT make the team and the kids who did make the team could've gotten an email, that is constructive feedback... but if you don't like the program, then no need to tryout or go back to that team. There are teams we will NEVER tryout for and that is our prerogative. The families on our team are wonderful and we are a close bunch.... we make the team a great one, the club just brought us together and the coaches train the kids. We don't win all the time, but we have a [lacrosse] of a time watching the kids play lacrosse and spending time together. We the parents set the values, not the club.

I would have to agree...

New fl$ Easton Helmet $200 (i.e. fl$ raised the price $200 from the prior year)

Mandatory fl$ Headwrapz for $50.....

Helmet is recalled by Easton....then as a consolation prize they give out Easton heads (unstrung) and shafts that not one kid used or wanted. Priceless!

Totally agree and as for this poster calling the girls teams walk-on that may be true for a couple of players they have trouble attracting talent because of the price point but the core group is solid and has alot of lax talent. We don't claim to be YJ's and you know what we are ok with it. We have also a close bunch, great kids everyone gets along and we love watching the kids play. What is the matter with everyone these days? Why does everyone feel that they need to rip everyone apart all the time? Do you see any fl$ parents on here complaining about the program, that it was terrible, that they never would go back? I don't feel ripped off. My daughter loves fl$, her friends, her coaches and so do I. Why does lacrosse always have to be about being D1 level. I know my kids is not and it's fine. If we like our club then you should not care so much. Everyone on here sounds like a bunch of parents that have kids that were cut and I feel sorry for the kids but anyone who is part of lax knows you have your kid try out for more than one team. It is what it is. Enjoy your winter lacrosse.

Read this whole thread and you will find fl$ parents who are not happy. You will also find out real quickly how many of their girls left from last year. They may not be on BOTC, but they are already on other teams.

In your case you seem like you are happy because your daughter is not a top player but you can afford to pay their ridiculous prices and have her on team. Good for you.

This year's fl$ helmet is actually a Custom Pro7 Cascade Helmet. $155 Dollars per helmet....All Navy with chrome Carolina blue mask

Who cares about a helmet !!!! Who is coaching the teams. I will pay for coaching not a helmet.

The helmet information was in response to the person posting false information.

fl$ posts a listing of every coach on their website www.[lacrosse]:

Bob Jahelka Director
Mike Winkoff Director
Corey Winkoff Director
Shane Sweeney fl$ Lite-Boys 2022 Coach
Tony Barone fl$ Lite - Boys 2022 Coach
Mark Rizzo fl$ Lite- Boys 2021 Coach
Stu Fast fl$ Lite - Boys 2020 Coach
Greg Rhodes fl$ Lite- Boys 2020 Coach
Chris Leahy Boys 2019 Team- Coach
Tom Holman Boys 2019 Team- Coach
Will Kogel Boys 2019 Team-Coach
Matt Paolano Boys 2018 Team-Coach
James Kern Boys 2018 Team- Coach
Robert Coscia Boys 2017 Team- Coach
Eric Dunne Boys 2017 Team-Coach
Brian Soper Boys 2016 Team & U15- Coach
Justin O'Connell Boys 2016 Team- Coach
Karl Hedstrom Boys 2015 Team- Coach
Brian Tower Boys 2015 Team- Coach
Mike Hungerford Boys 2014 Team- Coach
John Nessler Boys 2014 Team- Coach
Katie McGinty Girls 2014 Team- Coach
Jenna Spenard Girls 2014 Team- Coach
Kristie Leggio fl$ Girls Director & Girls 2015 Team- Coach
Jessica Wiegand Girls 2015 Team- Coach
Christina LaPenta Girls 2016 Team- Coach
Casey McGrath Girls 2017 Team- Coach
Ashley Babst Girls 2017 Team- Coach
Morgan Chiarenza Girls 2018 Team- Coach
Kerri McGinty fl$ Girls Director & Girls 2018 Team- Coach
Jackie Sileo Girls 2019 Team - Coach
Nicole Sileo Girls 2019 Team- Coach
Christine Collins fl$ Lite Girls Director
Ashley Janelli fl$ Lite- Girls 2020 Coach
Kait Brosco fl$ Lite- Girls 2020 Coach
Samantha Losco fl$ Lite- Girls 2021 Coach
Katelyn Piegare fl$ Lite- Girls 2021 Coach

The 2015 team is not competitive. Actually they were the one who were cut from other teams!

Dear Poster: I always read this forum and I am very aware of every post. I don't see that many have left. I personally know only one girl that left the program last year for another team. If they are older girls in high school that is not what I am talking about. You don't have to be a YJ to be a top player in lacrosse. Most of the YJs are a certain type of agressive player that excels in that fast paced forum. I have alot of YJ friends that are great people with great kids. My point was just that I know that intense kind of play is not for my kid. Your so uninformed its ridiculous. The 1,700 that we used to pay gave us an unbelievable Under Armour package, adult professional coaches, a full week of camp. If it is a couple of extra hundred over, who cares I don't. You do. Don't worry about what fl$ parents pay and clearly your kid is not on any team right now cause you seem mezmerized with the team they didn't make. Don't be such a nasty poster. You might get one back.

Bye the way, I did just take a moment to skim back through and there seems to be alot of boy parents that have a problem with the management and the price. A couple of nasty girl comments. The girls program is very new and moving on to better things. Usually, the only people who post on forums like this tend to be people who are angry and upset with something. If people are happy, they don't bother. Most of my friends on the team don't bother with these boards. There is too much negative engery. Just like college review forum, only the unhappy students post there. Please come to our tents this summer, have something eat and something cold to drink. Talk to our parents and see how happy we are. Don't base your opnions on two or three posts.

That's great but the info about fl$ raising the price by $200 for the 2012 season and getting a helmet that was recalled was totally accurate.

Not their fault the helmets were recalled. My son liked the shaft.

So they were plus $50 even with the helmet

Inside Lacrosse Top 25 Young Gun Sophomore list just came out. Three fl$ boys!! Congrats!

Interesting too - No Express Orange Sophs.

No "I" in team, fl$ has the best players, Express was the best team.

There's no "WE" either, coach.

The players on that list would have been on the list anyway. No club makes a kid into that kind of player. Just chance or aggressive recruiting that landed them on one roster vs another.

The other way to look at it is there are 22 non-fl$ players on the list. How come 23 of the top 25 aren't from fl$ for that age group?

Please.

But there is in Win

Bottom line is that none of those list's that you see are worth the paper that they're written on. Do you really believe that US Lacrosse or ESPN spend the time and money to eveluate high school age players in a meaningful way? It's a handful of people giving their opinion to an editor or columnist at a publication - and everyone involved has an agenda!

If fl$ has the best players and still lost then the difference between Express and fl$ must be a huge margin in coaching. These talented boys deserve better.

Will be interesting to see which boys "defect" to the Express given that the tryouts are basically back-to-back. I think there could be a decent size shakeup on both teams.

I disagree. I bet both Express and fl$ 2015 have nearly identical rosters. Maybe 2 or 3 changes on each team (at most).

That hasn't been the recent history - more like 6-8 changes on each. The proof will be in which kids show up to the other's tryout. Will be lots of freaked out & on-edge parents as usual. Looking forward to the drama.

Does that include the one that lists the express as the #1 club in the country, the same one that the express people flaunted endlessly, or is that one accurate and its just all the others that are worthless?

Top to bottom name an fl$ team that is better than an Express team. I don't know of any but then again I don't know all the grades. But in the older grades the Express dominates.

Not one single player from Express Orange will tryout for fl$. Last year, however, at least 5 fl$ players tried out for Express.

The better question is how many players on the Ballers will try out for Express and/or fl$? Ballers have a few very good players who are looking to join a better team. This is a very important summer for 2015 kids.

Interesting. Anybody know why no Orange kids trying out for fl$? They can't all be safe - there are always a bottom 5 on the bubble. The parking lot at Field of Dreams will no doubt be crowded again with fl$ bumper stickers during Express tryouts.

Why single out the Ballers? Jesters, 91 etc. too! You'll probably have another 200 trying out for maybe 6 to 8 spots on both teams combined. 96% chance you are doing nothing more than making a donation to the Express and fl$ retirement funds. And even if you are in the 3-4%, if your son is on the wrong end of a short bench and the coach is going only 15 deep, it won't matter that he is on the team because no colleges will see him play much. Better off just going to a bunch of recruiting camps and school propsect days.

Relax. You don't need to be on Express Orange or fl$ to get recruited. Somehow 99% of the kids on D1 and D3 rosters did not play for either club - or come from Long Island for that matter. Take a look.

They are kidding themselves. Look at the history. Very few if any "Johnny Come Lately, Where You Been?" ever make these teams over their existing proven players. These teams are pretty much locked up already. Good luck with the Blue team, which is where 4 or 5 fl$ kids got placed last year.

Not to mention the one or two long time St. Anthony's families that have put their dues in on the Express Blue team and are ready for a promotion. There might be one or two of those already baked in. For those on the outside trying to get in, you have no idea what you are dealing with. Best of luck.

Forget making Orange but could make Blue and just the Express name would be beneficial for recruiting. No coaches know who the Ballers are. Since Express Blue doesn't make all the best tournaments you will have to add other recruiting events on your own. Or they could try for fl$ but that's probably not going to happen either unless they have a decent amount of turnover.

it is the name (number) on the back of the jersey not the front is a cliche but for the 2015's it is true. July of 2013 will be a little late for many kids looking for top 25 D1 recruiting, most of the kids are already on the radar and if they are not then November is a big month for them. the important names for next summer are Jake Reed, Mavrick, Top 205, and the Nassau Suffolk showcase teams not fl$,91,Express, Ballers or Outlaws.

I agree with part of your post - there is alot more to recruiting than being on fl$ or Express. But, I disagree with you about the timeframe urgency - although you are right about being late for the ACC and Hopkins by next July. But, the Patriot league, IVYs and several other great D1 conferences will still be filling out their 2014s and may only have a couple of 2015s done by next summer -plenty of time if you are not hung up on the ACC and playing on Memorial Day. I know because we are making a lot of visits with my 2014 son. Don't get caught up in the hype of early commits, it really only applies to the top 5-8. Need proof? Colgate, Lehigh, Hofstra and even Cuse just announed a few 2013s and 2014s. I spoke with one of the Patriot schools over this past weekend and they only have 4 2014s committed so far. There will still be plenty of time for 2015s to find a great spot even by next fall/winter and possibly even the spring/summer of Junior year!

Be careful what you wish for. D1 lacrosse is like having a full time job and going to class at the same time. No joke. Also many programs are offering just $2,000 dollars in scholarship money! On top of it, your son maybe a great player, yet never see the field his first two years if ever...

True that. Morning workout with the team, breakfast with the team, Lunch, Practice, Study Hall, Dinner, film...all with the team. I played in the early 80's, my kid plays now. The difference in time commitment is huge, kinda feel sorry for him.

So true. And many are not taking any money just to be on the team. Or they'll switch his position and he'll hate it like a neighbor of ours who's son was an all american in high school but had his position switched and never sees the field anyway. He now wants to drop lacrosse and transfer because he's in over his head academically. Nightmare. D3 is the way to go as far as I'm concerned.

Dont kill me on this. Just one parents observation on some of the top 2015 at each position. Again, just my opinion to be taken with a grain of salt.

Att-
Concannon, Delina, Dunn, Reynolds, Hawthorne.

Mid-
Sullivan, Tigh, Lang, Liccardi, Dannengellis, Yevoli, Fracarro,

LSM-
Wright, Genova, Desanti

Def-
Germain, Fowler, Colomussi, Kelly, Borges,(Ballers and Jesters had very good D men just dony know their names).

Goal-
Klobus, McGwigan

Again, to be taken as just one persons view.

Dear Readers : Note that BOTC will allow this post with the players names to stand as it puts all of these young student-athletes in a positive light. Any attempt to malign these players will result in immediate expulsion from the board without warning. In other words, the discussion must be on the positive side where these named players (or other suggestions) are involved. Your cooperation is appreciated.

very good list, interesting as it pertains to previous post - 3 of the 22 are Ballers and the previous post says other Baller defenseman are good just didn't know the names, yet previous post felt that no Baller or Jester could make express orange - I think that two Baller's on the list (Desanti and Yevoli) could make any team that tried out for - I would add Tim Mattise (sp?) from outlaws would be on my list of D or LSM

What about 2014's?

Rather than individual kids, what would you say are the deepest pools of talent on the Island by grade ranging from 2017 through 2013?

My ranking is
1) 2017
2) 2015
3) 2014
4) 2013
5) 2016

clearly, you do not know what you don't see. Can't blame you for that though.

And your son is which one on the list?

The best players at each position are TBD ...

Evaluate the best HS varsity players for the best HS teams, when they get there.

IMO, nobody should be able to post kids' names, even if positive. And especially not anonymously. Opens the door to a new world of self-promotion that will eventually deteriorate. Someone will come forward with "John Doe in Islip is way better than ..."

And are all those parents ok with someone identifying their minor sons on a public message board? I don't let my kids have a Facebook page, and wouldn't want them appearing on anyone's list without me knowing and approving beforehand. Just my 2 cents.

It will be interesting to see how many "new" kids try out for fl$ and Express and just as interesting if the new kids make it who will be knocked off. Like musical chairs, a lot more kids than spots. The tension and anxiety is building. Lets get it on!

True. But its already late for kids that are not already on the coaches "wishlist" even if they don't have announced commits. The coaches "wishlist" for schools in the Patriot and IVYs for 2015 is already baked. If you haven't been contacted in some manner I'd be getting concerned.

Ha. Let the freaking out begin - it's going to be a long 7 weeks.

Over already? "Well Joel, you've done some respectible work here - but it isn't quite Ivy League now is it. Sometimes you just gotta say wth? Looks like University of Illinois." For those who remember, a refernece from the movie Risky Business. Good luck to all not on the above list in your hunt for a D3 spot.

Got news for you. The backroom maneuvering already started in the summer. If you haven't already been approached by fl$ or Express good luck hunting for that community college spot. This whole thing is nuts. I wish my kid had just stuck to something like golf or crew where your handicap and erg times are all that matter.

The kids listed above are all great, great players. However, to demonstrate how deep the 2015 class is, I think it would be easy to put together a team that could compete with that "team": Willets, Laviano, Purdie, Campbell, Morris, Mattiace, Gilbert, Henningsen, Jones, Moreta, Myers, O'Connell, Flynn, Kearns, etc. Lots of talented kids.

Ballers beat this team

two lists of 2015's and no mention of Colin Burke, Showcase MVP or Brian Cameron who already committed to Hofstra.

Deeper yet...Duran, Brennan, Zimm, Toes, Thomas, Buscemi, Raffa etc... tons of offensive firepower in this grade but need to hear more about close D.

I agree Cage Sage are you listening... Names should not be allowed. It is an invasion of privacy, especially dangerous when those whose names are used without their permission are under 18 years of age.

I've heard from coaches and club directors that the 2015 class is one of the deepest they've ever seen across both Nassau and Suffolk. My rankings for long island by grad year would be as follows:

1) 2015
2) 2014
3) 2013
4) 2017
5) 2016

Yes, we are always listening.

You can open your own board, make your own rules, and do whatever you want. However, while you are on BOTC, our rules are clearly published, the boundaries established, and we police the board against those rules.

Absolutely not - reporting and discussion of players is not an invasion of privacy.

Which do you think is more dangerous? This community or Newsday's coverage of High School Sports? Do we need to list the dozens of alternative youth sports sites (including those listing college recruitment, interests, tournament appearances, and such) that go far beyond what you see here?

As long as everything is kept positive there shouldn't be a problem with names. Unfortunately, not being mentioned on opinions of "good players" can hurt but not nearly as much as being directly put down.

As we said earlier in this thread, this 2015 discussion will stand as long as we do not go down any dark paths of negative posts. Any negative player posts, as we said earlier, will result in immediate, irrevocable expulsion from the board. With great discussion comes great responsibility. This has the potential to be a very positive and interesting discussion of upcoming High School Varsity players.

There are plenty of student-athletes who do not get picked up in a Newsday article. Are they hurt?

Exactly. Spillane from Carey just committed to Penn State.

Would like to hear some opinions - is it possible to be selected for Under Armour and not play Express? How many Express vs fl$ were selected for this year's team? Thanks.

It is possible to make the UA underclass team without playing for Express. Although the team is predominately made up of Express players, fl$ players (and others) also make the roster every year.

This is from the Express website re: Under Armor team. Clearly a connection with St. Anthony and Chaminade too. Sorry if this is obvious to many of you. Trying to figure out the best program for my son. He is 2018 and we plan on keeping him in a public school. We are leaning to either fl$ or Express. I know we missed the tryouts - new to the Island. Who knows if he'll be good enough for UA but it would be nice to not have below average odds of making it because of the jersey he wears.

•Sam Bonafede - 2014 Chaminade (Princeton)
•Timmy Burke - 2013 Chaminade (Dartmouth)
•Brian Dunne - 2013 Chaminde (Duke)
•Danny Fowler - 2013 Chaminade (Duke)
•Greg Galligan - 2014 St. Anthony's (Georgetown)
•Justin Guterding - 2013 Garden City (Duke)
•Nick Koshansky - 2013 St.Anthony's (Notre Dame)
•Ryan Lukacovic - 2013 Chaminade (Virginia)
•Dylan Molloy - 2013
St. Anthony's (Brown)
•Tim Muller - 2013 Chaminade (Maryland)
•Brian Pratt - 2013 Chaminade (Yale)
•Michael Strack - 2013
St. Anthony's (Navy)
•Tom Zenker - 2013 Chaminade (Duke)

my two cents is he is in 7th grade - put him in the best situation for him to become the best player he can be and the rest will take care of itself - don't worry about making one team that plays one weekend six years from now - six years ago nobody cared about UA and all that mattered was making the Empire team. The Empire Games folded and UA emerged and became huge, now Empire is back and who knows what the future brings.

fl$ does not get the caliber of players that Express does.
fl$ is the kids that cant make Express.
Go for Express. Unless your puting your kid in Chaminade then you may have a shot.

That fee doesn't include any tournaments unlike all of the other clubs, the fee is a few thousand more.

This is an ignorant comment. Over the past several years there has been a lot of movement between the two teams Some kids getting cut from fl$ going to Express and vice versa.

Speak to people on both teams and see how they feel, how their kids are developing. There are other excellent programs where your child will have a chance to develop. It is not too late to get your child on a team - call around. There are often imjuries or families move.

Remember all these teams are a business. The UnderArmour and Brine programs are designed in part rake advantage of a parents willingness to pay for college coach exposure. Pick a team that is the right fit for your child. If your child is not selected for one of the "under arnour" type teams, use the money you saved to hire a consultant (no I am not one) working directly for you and your child to gain college exposure. There are plenty of kids who are not "undr armour all americans" playing D1 lacrosse

Another ridiculous comment.
All families pay for the tournaments no matter whether it is embedded in other costs or not. The fl$ total tournament fee adds a few hundred dollars to the cost - not thousands. Obviously one needs to take travel costs and hotel meals etc into the calculation as well

Travel lacrosse is an extremely expensive proposition for any team.

Any team should be able to provide you with a total cost estimate for all their fees.

Any negative player posts, as we said earlier, will result in immediate, irrevocable expulsion from the board. With great discussion comes great responsibility.

Not enforced obviously 18468 18474 needed editing and should still be edited as the posts remain published

The poster and you owe the player an apology for allowing such a negative post to persist

The comment you are citing is from post #20215 in response to the discussion of the 2015 lacrosse names offered. Note that the conversation has been extremely upbeat across those players.

As particular players were not referenced in posts #18468 and #18474, these were not further edited. At BOTC, we enforce the Board Rules with regularity as needed. This is our one and only response on this item.

Why the thin skin from the fl$ supporters? It's ok to be critical of a program - some programs could benefit if they listen carefully to all sides. I think we all agree that its not ok to be critical of individual players by name, which thankfully I don't see anywhere here.

fl$ does not cultivate players...not many practices and coaching is weak..Many fl$ players make a C team on express and an A team on fl$..facts are facts...

My son made express orange and 91 orange. Let's not be making broad stroke generalizations. Come now..... fl$ also picks their team and if anyone declines.. they don't run out and scramble to back fill. The team is the team. Those that don't want the nonsense gravitate to fl$! Goooooo fl$!

If your son was on fl$, why would you try out for three teams. Where is your commitment to fl$? You don't know what you are talking about. This must be your first child playing lacrosse.. Go fl$!!!

Some of us like to try out for all the top teams:

1). To put the bed silly statements like your son would never make Express or 91.

2). As a back up because you never know what the "plan" is for the team or what the other parents plan is fo rthe boys on a team.

3). Some of us like to see if are good enough for those teams and like to put our sons in the best envirnment for our sons.


Loyalty is a two way street which in many cases has not been proven by prior history.
Rob

Dear Super Dad,

Come down off your high horse...Write back when your son makes a Top DI school. Sounds like you are making your son out to be more than he is. A top player doesn't have to prove themselves they make a college team no matter who they play for. Get with the program...pal..

Nope.. not my first. At the end of the day my kid plays for the team that he gets the most out of and I'm sure you do the same for your child.

fl$ tourney criticized for being held during school week. I agree. What's next? Christmas Day and Easter?

http://insidelacrosse.com/news/2012...ions-coaches-recruit-younger-and-younger

Quoting the article : "This year, for instance, two youth training companies, fl$ Lacrosse of Massapequa, N.Y., and 3d Lacrosse of Denver, announced a Nov. 8-9 showcase for top players in Bel Air. Those dates fell on a Thursday and Friday in the middle of the school year and thus seemed to encourage players to miss class for a recruiting event."

Not only that but only 10 days after Sandy when most kids had already missed 8 days of school. What's another 2? Shameless money grab.

Not saying it is right- but hundreds of young and older kids miss school for hockey tournaments all over the country- a few times a year- not even recruiting events- just part of the travel hockey scene. I often wonder where the line will finally be drawn.

As a parent there is no way I would patronize that! Crazy missing school for that. But many will do it and people will always find a way to make money!!!

We received an offer from another out of state event that same weekend that if we wanted to cancel because of any hardship related to the Hurricane that we could get a full refund. Was any such offer issued by fl$? If not, should have been - its the only decent thing to do.

I don't believe it is pre determined. My son tried out last year and did not make the team. However, there were six kids that got "cut" from the previous season's team. That takes a lot of guts for a program that charges what they do.
As far as what they charge, they earn every penny. The last I saw, the 2013 team had a majority of the kids committed to play at the college level.

Cutting kids from existing teams does take guts. But that is the trend of the future because more and more kids are playing and competition is getting harder as you move up each age group. How many teams in each age group this year?

Lacrosse programs are built on the coaching staff. Kids did not get cut, the coach did. Coach #2 brought in "his Players"- that makes it pre-determined. Which was either a very poor choice or "Gutzy".
The question as to why fl$ is money driven is obvious. Because we'll pay it for our kids.I know the business world on this small Island fairly well and feel more uneasy for my kid than he does. fl$ Coaches wont be liking this. A business model is prodding into their labor of love. I'm out next year "no regrets".

That was a poor choice in my humble view.

Very poor showing for fl$ at the Winter Nationals for '17, '18, and '19 teams. What's going on? Can't attract the talent anymore? Too much money? Too little time on the field?

One thing is for sure if they have a poor year you will see a bunch of fl$ helmets at Express and 91 tryouts come the fall. Nobody wants to pay the cost of the program and get tuned up every weekend. You dont want to play in the B division this summer.

Have lost talent to other programs. Their tryouts were a joke. Money grab! Better players were over looked and really no improvement made to some years. Some really talented players were not invited back to second tryout in favor of friends of friends. Some really obvious weak players at second tryout.

Strong 2015/2014 teams. Although losing a few who are committed to colleges.

Offenisve philosophy of 2016 coach two years ago was "go hard". No teaching, no plays, not much practice. Many players moved on to Express Orange and 91 Orange and have done well. 2016 coach last year held practice in late afternoon once school was done. Too bad the boys couldn't drive themselves to Cantiague Park.

Does fl$ have a 3rd grade (class of 2022) team that plays in leagues, tournaments, etc. or do they just run clinics through their fl$ lite program? Thanks.

The 2017 team happens to very good, the talent at the Winter Nationals was very good. Give them a chance

Not sure if you are talking about girls or boys. Inconclusive on the boys side - should just call the director to confirm. Looking at their website there are no rosters yet posted for 2022 girls or boys but when you click on the tournaments tab you'll see that a 2022 boys team is scheduled for the fl$ tournament.

http://www.[lacrosse]/

Really?!! Heard they got spanked by Dukes and mailed it in in the second half against BBL. Looked almost as though they were the 2019 team playing against Dukes the whole game and BBL 2nd half. Heard the following: stagnant isoloation offense, weak riding attack, and middies not willing to run up and down the field (particularly on the defensive side). On the upside, heard good thinks about their defense, but couldn't stop shots when the middies weren't marking the outside shooters. Granted, Dukes 2017 could make most 2017 teams(including Turtles) look like 2018s and 2019s, but they shouldn't be taken to the shed by BBL, should they?

We will see where the fl$ players end playing in college. They will all be fine. College coaches could care less what the team records are in 8 th grade travel lacrosse. Why dont you check out the rosters from some these colleges. .....guess what they are all not from Long Island. They are looking for athletic talent and projectability. You guys have too much time on your hands.

Says the guy who provided a response to the response

My son is not on this team but he has friends on the team who are very good players. They have a bunch of new players, a new coach and they really dont do much in the fall/winter. Guarantee you come summer they will be a tough out for anyone.

Dude - there were worse teams there than the fl$. What's your ax to grind with the fl$? - just put it out there.

2014 fl$ only had 15 to 16 2014's at the tryout. Had to backfill with 2015's. Was it because kids were already recruited and didn't want to continue to pay $2500+ or other reasons?

Good question - if there is anybody on this board with a 2014 son who did not want to tryout for the fl$, please chime in with the reason - particularly if you've been with the fl$ until now. My guess is that this is not just an fl$ issue and the early recruiting phenomenon is beginning to take its toll with kids who are committed deciding to give up the grind and play a little more of a relaxed / non-recruiting type schedule. I'd be surprised if any 2014s who are not yet committed decided to switch programs at such a late stage. Heaven forbid maybe they might want to do some fishing, play golf, do some travel abroad. Besides, college coaches don't want to see committed kids anyway. There are other avenues for the committed kids. These programs are designed to get kids recruited and it looks like fl$ has accomplished that goal with a good chunk of their 2014s.

According to the roster on the website it looks like there are only two 2015s (Syosset, Manhasset) on the 2014 team. So, to say there were only 15 or 16 at the tryout is misleading. Min 18 + 2 = 20 on the roster.

www.[lacrosse]

My son is on the fl$ 2014. There were definately alot more than 14 or 15 at the tryout - my guess is about 20-25 at the tryout - they did not take everybody and yes they added a couple of good 2015s that they didn't want to lose from the program because the 2015 team was full. Chalk it up to early recruiting.

What's up with fl$ and the Threshers? Some issues brewing in the 2007/2018 age groups?

Wrong you are on the turtles comment...they just beat Dukes down in Philly. get your facts straight.

Who beat the Dukes? Threshers or Turtles? What was the score?

Not sure. Director's nephew (2018) playing for another travel team with two other fl$ players, with the Director there. While the rest of our 2018 team is playing OBLL.

Terps Black beat Dukes twice, just saying.

The recent concern is that fl$ appears to be supporting the Threshers ahead of their own team(s). The Terps and Dukes got thrown in here via a response to a four month old post.

So whats your point? And its Dukes LC (Philly) and Express Terps (Black) from Long Island.

Hear that Threshers program may be combining with fl$.Like Raiders did with 91

I'm sure that there is an explanation and the only people that deserve it are the players and parents of fl$ boys 2018. Hopefully the club does the right thing and addresses the rumors and speculation.

... and everyone considering sending their kids to an fl$ tryout.

For $100 per tryout. Sign up for fl$ and get a Threshers jersey.. bait and switch?

Oh and if your older brother is on too, they will keep u even if there are better kids at tryouts. Building more then just athletes lol. Give me a break. They are all the same.

I'd rather go to a free Threshers tryout, and get an fl$ jersey.

Of course I'd have to give it back after I refused to pay fl$'s prices.

What are you guys talking about. Threshers only had 3 fl$ players filling in. The only reason it was fl$ is because many Threshers boys play on the same Cold Spring team. If Threshers wasn't playing Express in that tournament I'm sure you would have seen a couple of those boys playing for Threshers they also have many CSH boys on that team. Every Team switches players nothing new.

I agree, my son will also fill in for other teams when asked, so this is really a non issue. Stop reading into this, especially when a player gets the option to play multiple games in a tournament as opposed to just a single OBLL game.

Doesn't fl$ have a rule that you cannot play for another club team? Guess that rule does not apply to the director's nephew.

Gee, who could this be? Can you be anymore obvious?

Oh I get it. It's about this guy being obvious.... He's wrong. Its not about different rules for different players. So what your saying is, if the director was at a tournament and a non CSH player was playing for another travel team when he should be playing for fl$, nothing would be said. Now that is really funny!! Come on stop, you got caught. fess up, don't shift blame. Admit to the people you take money from you were wrong and move on. I guess if my son wants to bag half of the next tournament to go play for another team, because he can play more games, all will be fine. Your logic, not mine.

Isn't this what we call "cheating"? Yes, it happens, but if it is perfectly ok for non-roster players to just "show up" what does that say about these tournaments and leagues? What does that say about the clubs involved?

Is it ok for A players for a club to show up to B team games and take their playing time? How about older boys showing up to "help out" a younger age group?

And if a team is short players, that shouldn't be your opponent's problem. Stacking your team with ringers makes it their problem. If the team is short, then you play with fewer middie lines or you move attack to middie, etc.

Wins and losses in this "system" are meaningless if there is no consistency and integrity among the teams.

fl$ has a rule that if you play for fl$ you may not play for another club team. Does that mean those 3 fl$ players will be kicked off the team? Of course not, these are the CSH kids they don't even have to show up for the second tryout and get picked over boys who are dedicated and showed up for both tryouts. Yeah, your club is fair alright.

[Response was stuck in the middle of the original post above]

It worked for the three players and the Thresher club. They could care less about the other teams they are playing. Clearly, fl$, Threshers and their directors need a remedial course in Sportsmanship. It just so happens that the three kids that "filled in" just happened to be two of the best middies from fl$ and one their best defenders. It would be one thing if the kids did it on their own to play with friends, but when the Director of fl$ is their supporting them (as stated above) it raises questions about integrity and character.

Unbelievable!!! You all got to be kidding. Cheating...really. Anywhere you look on long island today most kids are on some select team or another. From what I understand Threshers only has one team and doesn't have the convenience of pulling kids down like Express, 91, outlaws and the list go's on and on. You all know it happens so stop pointing the finger.The only difference here is that it was two different clubs that have boys from the same school district that all play on the same school team. So if CSH decided to play those boys in a tournament does that mean that they wouldn't be able to play for CSH? Absolutely Not.

Call it what you will.... I guess if everybody else does something it's "OK". Hence, we begin to understand the behavior.
The real point was all about playing for another travel team with your director present. fl$ Director present and cheering kids on when they should be playing for fl$ in a game that was going on at the same time. The club states that players can only play on one travel team. So, the organization has some explaining to do. Why would people want try out for a club where kids are not committed to the club? They play where they want when it's best for them. Tough to build a team like that. Probably why fl$ is weaker and weaker in the lower age groups.

Maybe just put the out-of-town boys from fl$ on the CSH town team. Sounds reasonable in your world.

Keep making up the rules as you go. How about the director's rule about no fl$ player can play for another club team. Answer that! So, if we see some fl$ players 'filling' in for an Express tourny where fl$ is not playing that's ok, right? Get the fl$ director to acknowledge that and you may actually have a leg to stand on, otherwise, just admit you are wrong!

That wouldn't be too much of a stretch, they already recruit kids from neighboring towns to play on the CSH PAL team. Anyone see a pattern here???

Well...we will see what happens when both teams are playing in the fl$ tournament. Lets see who plays for whom.

Yes , a TOTAL scam at the the 2019 tryout last fall!
I was told many kids playing were not even at the tryout!
Don't waste your money next fall

Why not?

Ward Melville is doing it at the Varsity level and they have a good chance at winning the State Championship! Their best player is from out of town.

What are you talking about? Wm kids all live in three village????

No they do not.

It's seems that fl$ is out recruiting for players in the 2017 age group ....

good for them.

85 youngsters @$125 per kid. hmmm, thats a lot of moola. FOR HOW MABNY SPOTS??????
I just saw them play and didn't recognize anyone, from last falls try out!!!

why? they already have 26 on the roster

Remember too if their older brother plays the younger one has to make also. Oh and if you are from Garden City or Manhasset. Lol building more then just athletes.

Not true! I know of instances on two different teams (2015 and 2017 where a twin brother made the team while the other did not. In one instance the one had played for another team for a couple years while the brother played for fl$. This year, the prior year fl$ kid was cut while the brother made it.

Nice job by CSH/fl$ Varsity for losing to Friends Academy. One team played like a team and wanted it more than the "team" full of individuals.

Sounds like at least one kid from Friends got cut from fl$!

What about the 'nice job' by the 9 fl$ boys on GC who just won another nassau title yesterday?

Don't be a hater. One year my older child made it and the younger didn't, the next year the younger made it and the older didn't. Oh and we are from Garden City or Manhasset.

Nice job. Nice job to the Express boys as well.

Why is there a push in GC to change what has worked so well? Their kids have played on club teams in the summer and the High School Team has had great success.

Why else? ...money!

And CONTROL. Don't know about GC, but many HS coaches are seeing their significance in the recruiting process greatly deminished. With less of a strangle hold on the kids future, they feel like they lose control of the kid. Especially, the non-starters, who make up 75-80% of the team. A good lax player being recruited by colleges who never sees the field on his HS team is going to be less concerned what his HS coach has to
say. The only time these kids get to play is on club. Now, if the coach controls the summer too he holds all the cards for your kids future as it relates to lax and college. Hence, he now knows the kids will do ANYTHING he says.

think the real number is 4/5......for 2014 and 2015

EXACTLY!!!

Add to it, the coaches who penalize the kids who don't do all their off season work outs, camps, etc.

boy's have to laugh ..a good high school coach will always put the best kids on the the field..... it's high school lacrosse not mid school any more..i feel most parents would rather have professional educator looking after their son than a group just looking out for the money side of the business......

move over club lacrosse for aau lacrosse .....
and we all know how legit that's is !!!!!!!!!!!

Maybe. maybe not. Some coaches may be poor talent evaluates, or they owe somebody, maybe they like brown nosers. Bottom line, I knew a kid who never got on the field in HS but due to club ball he had d1 schools all over him. He ened up choosing a d2, but you get the idea

Not sure what the other town/school programs are doing, but in GC the summer town teams coached by the school district coaches end at 8th grade (going into 9th). That would seem to limit the conflict of interest and any potential unfairness to a HS kid playing on another club team for the summer.

The conflicts of interest are out of control.

The conflicts of interest aren't a problem if you are part of MW and BJ inner circle. It's all about them and their self promotion. So glad we are done with this program. And by the way we won't fill out the "form letter" you sent us to promote your program for you. Do you really need to tell people what to write.

Why doesn't anybody ever complain about the conflicts of interest with the Express? I hear that St A's kids who don't play Express never see the field. That's as wrong as anything else in the club landscape. Yet the St A's coaches seem to be teflon when it comes to scrutiny.

You hear wrong....not true!The process is about control,money and lots of othet reasons. Good coaches should want there players to learn and grow as playerd,good coaching is imporyant and many players dont get that in the younger grades from middle school coaches alone.So families should be allowed to choose what option works for them.Especially if you are being asked to pay for something,what right does that svhool coach have to tell you where you can play and PAY in the summer??? Board of Ed should be reviewing that nonsense!!!

Sounds like the ESM situation. They tell their kids that they can't play elsewhere, but what are they really offering????

This is to upgrade the team, to bring it to another level. not playing well as a team

fl$ tournament past weekend- 4th grade championship was won by fl$. However, the "4th grade" fl$ team had many 5th graders on it. No debate here please- (2) 5th grade boys from same town with the same initials, and many more playing on "4th grade" fl$.

There were other issues as well, but whatever

isn't that cheating? well done fl$.....

Nice try to stir the pot but that would never happen with the fl$. Try again though - If nothing else it's amusing.

I was also wondering how many older kids were on the 6th grade fl$ team. Just saw some pictures of the boys (those don't look like 11/12 year olds). The jerseys did have last names on them; I guess they are on the team.

I'm not an fl$ parent and I know for fact those kids are in 6th grade. I coach some of them and yes some are real big.

Wouldn't put ANYTHING past fl$......How about cheating parents out of their try-out fees? In my opinion, it was pretty obvious there was favoritism last fall. Parents save your money this fall..........

Not a good place to be.

I herd there was 2 3th grade boys on that jesters 4th grade team they were the 2 best players out there playing against 5 th grade boys and they won the game vs fgl the jesters should be the champs of that tournament and I am not a jesters parent

the jesters had 3 th grade boys on that team and they were very good players playing against 5th grade boys wow

I herd those 3th boys came from fl$ they must be doing something wright

I heard fl$ may do tryouts next year for their younger teams (3rd, 4th, and 5th grade) teams and try to compete with the stronger teams (91, Express, Igloo, etc.). Does anyone know if that's true?

I heard they better do something over there... 2017, 2018, and 2019 teams cannot beat top teams in their age groups. A far cry from the U-15 champ team a few years ago. Parents unhappy, no training, lack luster coaching, one practice a week , etc. many top players looking elsewhere for next year.

yup that pretty much sums it up...

fl$ - For The Live of the Green

Lol and building more then just athletes. They should be embarassed with the showings of their middle school teams. Actually their 2017 won nxt cup so I give them that.

fl$ is not the Express or 91! The 2018 and 2017 teams are not very competitive with the top teams.

ummm, news flash, 2017 fl$ just won the NXT cup down in Philly

Did they beat any of the top 10 LI Teams? Wait, never mind I don't think any of them were there.

I really don't understand why people are so down on fl$, fl$ has always stated that they are there to help better the players, to play fair, to provide playing time. I would think that a parent would rather have their child play with an organization that will let them play than be one of those players who sit on the sideline and only play when the team is crushing their opponent. I would be more concerned if the HS level of fl$ was not competitive, that is the age that really matters and when the players get noticed.

The fl$ players and parents are some of the best, overall, in attitude and behavior. They may not win all the time, but they sure have fun and get along outside of the LAX field.

I agree with what you are saying but some people are under the impression because you win a tournament with light competition doesn’t make you a top long Island program from a completive stand point. Anytime fl$ meets up with a high level program they lose. Philly was not a competitive tournament. All the top teams were in Maryland.

There 2017 is not very good as a team. Some good players but not one of the top teams in the age group. The Philly tournament was not very competitive.

Don't forget that a few years ago Team 91 and True Blue were either just starting out or didn't even exist. What makes these two teams is that they have great chemistry because they really have not changed their rosters in two years.
fl$ constantly changes their rosters...last year's team was not great either. I'm sure they will change it up again...it's hard to get things going without ample practices and constant upheavals.

But their best players are some of the best around. They could play on any team and dominate. They just don't have as much depth.

I'm not sure that's true about constantly changing the roster.I heard , many kids on fl$ lite , make the 6th grade team. You know, A bird in the hand is worth 2 in the bush, money-wise that is.Why take the chance with a new kid when you know last years kid is going to pay such a high team fee. And Hey , why not take all the try-out fee's and use the cash for existing kids lax helmets.Lets see, $125.00 try out fee could = a new helmet! Could it be??? I hope not. But then, why charge so much for a try out ?

Yeah but heard their 2018 team got crushed at NXT.

At lax fest as well...

Why does F L $ charge so much $$$ ?

CONSTANTLY CHANGING ROSTER????? Please,
They have numerous kids from the same elementary school on the 2019 team!
How is that possible ? Perhaps Paul Rabil is from that neighborhood and they are all related to him??? WHAT A JOKE
Don't waste your F L $$$$$$$$$$$$

CONGRADS to fl$ for a Fantastic fl$ in 3D Tournament this past weekend.

We had a great time and we are really glad we made the trip

and at their own tournament this past weekend in Maryland.

fl$ had a bit of an air of superiority about them a few years back, they then made a major blunder by holding tryouts to late for the younger teams, they were able to get away with the late tryout for the older established teams because those kids wanted to play for them, but they lost out on a new generation of quality players when they all made other teams before fl$ even had tryouts, they are now trying to re-build those teams but the better players are all established else where.

If you can't afford it, find another team. Stop wasting everyones time with the constant whining about the cost. Go back to the hole you live in but stop the constant complaining.

Thanks so much Manhasset/Garden City/Cold Spring Harbor parent for your elitist comment about affording to play summer lacrosse. Maybe, just maybe - the reason why so many people have the same complaint is because the program is no longer about For the Love of the Game it's now about the money.

Nice, branding someone for being from Manhasset/GC/CSH because they make a money comment. What nonsense, how come not South Massapequa/Kings Park etc etc etc?? You're a JERK

Maybe you should have studied harder in college. Then you could have afforded a house in CSH.

And how old is there best attack man? Be honest.

Hey there jug head, all you have to do is look at the FL$ rosters! It's all right there on their website.Go ahead, take a look at how many youngsters are in the same school, I think in Manhasset.There must be something in the air in that one neighborhood to make such talented kids in that 6th gr team. Hmmm, I wonder if it had anything to do with favoritism during selection time ? Well, perhaps. Maybe selection was a forgone conclusion prior to the try out! And to think of all the other kids who really thought they had a shot at making the team.how disappointing it must have been for some of them.Not to mention the costly price for the honor of trying out for FL$.very sad....

Stop the madness, I know of another town in Suffolk that has 8+ kids less than 1/4 mile of each other that are the top in their grade. What a pleasure to have talented friends who live near bye play together. Id take a group of kids that will play and be together over boys that don't know each other any other day. they will gel and play better as a team, and that is what it is about getting a team better.

Why is this an arguement? fl$ isn't a very competitive team to begin with...stick to Turtles (not a Turtle Dad)

This organization is laughable

Manhasset's 6th grade PAL "A" team went undefeated this year. As did their 5th grade PAL "A" team

Maybe they just have a lot more younger talent than some of the other towns. Maybe they are doing something at the youth level that your town isn't

Not from Manhasset, but have seen Coach Cherry at the sidelines of quite a few youth games the past few years. Always with a smile on and always willing to talk and shake a hand. There is the difference a public school coach out at Youth Games cheering on his community and future players.

The only other HS coach I have seen at tournaments TY is Doller from Sayville (not sure if he has a son who plays youth).

Bill Cherry is a first class act and im not from Manhasset, FYI he has a son playing in the games that he is watching.

Actually he attends many games that his sons are not playing. He was at Stonybrook this past weekend and the only team that played was the 5th grade 32 team. His son is not on that team.

How is the fl$ Girls' program?