The league introduced the 8v8 format in 2025 to increase touches, enhance player development, and make the game more exciting and inclusive for all athletes. Many 12U players are new to the sport or still building their fundamentals, and in a full-field game they don’t always get enough opportunities to handle the ball. The 8v8 format provides more frequent involvement, more meaningful touches, and greater impact for every player.
This creates a faster-paced game where athletes stay engaged and are constantly involved. Think of it like soccer meets basketball—more touches, quicker decision-making, and plenty of chances to develop skills. The result is a game that’s not only fun to play, but also helps every player grow and improve.
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Dates: Practices will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:30-6pm, 3/5-5/21. 12U Games will begin the weekend of 3/21. Teams will have one game per weekend on Saturday or Sunday through 5/17. No games or practices over Spring Break.
Time: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 4:30-6pm
Games: 3/21-5/17, one game or scrimmage per weekend.
Location: IMS Turf Fields
Coaches: Our players will be coached by a combination of MIGLAX adult coaches, parent volunteers (see below) and MIHS Varsity and JV players.
Volunteer Parent Head Coach (8U, 10U and 12U only)
We need parent volunteer coaches! Our program is growing and each team is required to have an adult leader (league rules) 18 years of age or older. You will be assisted by two HS player coaches who will help head coach your team by running practices and games. Parent coaches help keep drills moving, supervise athletes and keep everyone safe. Don't be intimidated - our program director plans your practices and provides plenty of resources for all coaches to follow each week! Keep in mind that 8U, 10U and NOW 12U play is small sided play (width wise), incredibly akin to basketball. Easy to coach and supervise! Please email [email protected] if you have any questions.
Pinnie Purchase:
A reversible Islanders pinnie will be a required item to purchase ($35) when you register, unless you purchased and would like to reuse your 2025 pinnie. We have selected a waist length reversible that is slightly boxy to allow players to layer underneath in the early cold spring season. These are true to size but we recommend sizing up to allow for layers/weather! All players are expected to wear their pinnie on their outermost layer.
This pinnie is reversible and the design will be consistent between the grades of 3 and 8 for the next several years. Your assigned reversible number will be yours until you finish your youth lacrosse career in the 8th grade. You may opt to select a reversible that is slightly larger this year so that you do not have to buy one the following year.
Equipment:
All players should wear cleats, dress for the weather (rain or shine) and bring the following to each session (there will be no sharing of equipment of any kind):
- Waterbottle
- Eye Gear
- Stick
- Mouthguard
- Mask
Please see our equipment info page for more information.
Refund Policy:
Refunds of MIGLAX registration fees will only be granted in the event of a change in the status of the player. Possible reasons for granting a refund include a change in the player’s health, a change of address, a change in family status, or similar consideration.
The amount of refunds granted will be determined as follows:
- On or prior to program start date, 100% of the total registration fee, less $15 to cover administration fees.
- After program start date, no refunds will be granted except for a change in the player’s health preventing that player from practicing or playing with the team or if the family is moving off Mercer Island. The amount of the refund will be pro-rated based on the length of the season remaining and will in no event exceed 50% of the registration fee, less $15 to cover administration fees.