🔁 CLA Player Pathway

Every Age. Every Stage. Every Season.

At Carolina Lacrosse Association (CLA), we guide boys and girls from their very first stick to top-tier competition. Our structured, inclusive pathway is built around three key stages that support players throughout their journey — locally, regionally, and nationally.

CLA Pathway Overview

The Carolina Lacrosse Association (CLA) provides a comprehensive and inclusive pathway for both boys and girls, guiding players of all skill levels from their first steps in lacrosse to national-level competition. Our program is built on three key stages:

  1. CLA Start: Introduction to lacrosse.

  2. CLA Play: Year-round academies, leagues, and spring competition options.

  3. CLA Travel: Regional club teams, including Select and Elite levels.

CLA START - Where the Journey Begins

For players brand new to the game or early in their development. Focus: Fundamentals. Confidence. Fun.

What’s Included:

  • Free Introductory Clinics

  • Weekly Skill Sessions

  • Local Park & School-Based Programs

🎯 Perfect for: K–8th grade beginners looking to try the sport in a low-pressure, high-energy environment.

CLA PLAY - Train. Compete. Grow.

For players seeking year-round development, structured leagues, and spring team options — all while staying close to home.

What’s Included:

  • Train & Play Academies – Seasonal weekly training + games

  • Seasonal Leagues –

    • Polar Bear League (Winter)

    • Spring Rec League (Spring)

🎯 Perfect for: Players who love to compete, improve, and play consistently.

CLA TRAVEL - Compete at the Next Level

For dedicated athletes ready for high-level coaching, regional teams, and elite tournament play.

Program Tiers:

🔹 Select Teams

  • Regional focus

  • Fewer tournaments

  • Ideal for multi-sport athletes or families balancing other priorities

  • Includes recruiting support and access to Southern Stars opportunities

🔸 Elite Teams

  • National-level competition

  • Top-tier coaching

  • Recruiting mentorship + exposure

  • Premium gear & tournament schedule

  • Direct access to CLA Premier events like Southern Stars and Carolina Gold

Travel Teams by Region:

  • Team Carolina (Charlotte Boys)

  • Carolina Miners (North Boys)

  • Style Lacrosse (Girls – All Regions)

🎯 Perfect for: Players serious about taking their game to the next level, whether that’s regional dominance or college recruitment.

→ Team Carolina Boys | Carolina Miners Boys | Style Lacrosse Girls

Need help figuring out which stage is for you?