The Ultimate Guide to Lacrosse in Ottawa
Lacrosse is Canada’s national summer sport, combining speed, strategy, and physicality. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn the game or a seasoned player competing in high-level leagues, Ottawa has a thriving lacrosse scene for all levels.
In this guide, you’ll discover:
✅ The best soccer facilities in Ottawa
✅ How to join leagues & training programs
✅ The essential gear every player needs
✅ Pro tips to improve your game
✅ Our club spotlight and soccer directory
Why Play Lacrosse?
Lacrosse is an exciting, full contact, and fast-paced sport with countless benefits:
✅ Enhances Hand-Eye Coordination – Fast-paced passing and shooting improve reaction time.
✅ Builds Speed & Agility – Constant movement develops endurance and quick reflexes.
✅ Improves Teamwork & Communication – Essential for both offense and defense.
✅ Great for All Ages & Skill Levels – Youth, recreational, and professional leagues available.
“Lacrosse is probably the best sport I ever played.” – Jim Brown (NFL Hall of Famer & Lacrosse Legend)
Top Lacrosse Leagues & Clubs in Ottawa
Looking to join a team? Check out these top lacrosse organizations in the city:
🥍 Gloucester Griffins Junior Lacrosse Club – Junior lacrosse offering house and competitive teams.
🥍 Nepean Knights Lacrosse – A strong minor and junior program for boys and girls.
🥍 Ottawa River Lacrosse Club – Offers youth development programs, focusing on skill-building.
🥍 South Ottawa Blues Lacrosse – A community-driven club supporting players of all levels.
🥍 Carleton University Ravens Lacrosse – A competitive university-level lacrosse team.
🥍 University of Ottawa Gee-Gees Lacrosse – A strong collegiate program playing in CUFLA.
Many clubs offer beginner-friendly training programs—contact them for details!
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Best Lacrosse Fields & Arenas in Ottawa
Need a place to practice or play? Here are some of the best lacrosse venues in the city:
📍 Nepean Sportsplex – Hosts local lacrosse games and training sessions.
📍 Fred Barrett Arena – A great facility for box lacrosse leagues.
📍 Carleton University Stadium Field – Home to the Ravens lacrosse team.
📍 UOttawa Matt Anthony Field – A prime field for university-level and club lacrosse.
📍 Bell Sensplex – A multi-sport facility that accommodates lacrosse training.
📍 Walter Baker Sports Centre – Frequently used for youth and recreational lacrosse programs.
Many teams train at community centers and local high schools—check with your club for practice locations!
Essential Lacrosse Gear
Having the right lacrosse gear is crucial for performance and safety. Here’s what you need:
✔ Lacrosse Stick – Attack, midfield, defense, and goalie sticks tailored for different positions.
✔ Helmet & Face Mask – Required for protection in box and field lacrosse.
✔ Gloves & Arm Guards – Essential for shielding hands and arms from checks.
✔ Shoulder Pads & Rib Pads – Protects against impacts during gameplay.
✔ Mouthguard – Mandatory for safety in all leagues.
✔ Cleats & Turf Shoes – Provides traction for quick cuts and dodges.
✔ Lacrosse Balls – Official game and practice balls.
✔ Training Aids – Rebounders, shooting targets, and agility ladders for skill development.
Need recommendations? Check out our Best Lacrosse Gear Picks for expert reviews!
How to Improve Your Lacrosse Game
Want to elevate your skills and dominate the field? Follow these tips:
🔥 Work on Stick Handling – Practice cradling, passing, and catching with both hands.
🔥 Improve Shot Accuracy – Aim for corners and practice shooting on the move.
🔥 Enhance Defensive Positioning – Stay low and force attackers to weaker angles.
🔥 Increase Speed & Agility – Sprint drills, ladder drills, and quick cuts improve movement.
🔥 Watch & Analyze Games – Learn strategies from professional and collegiate matches.
Pro Tip: Box lacrosse players benefit from strength training, while field lacrosse players should focus on speed and endurance!
Join Ottawa’s Lacrosse Community
Looking to connect with fellow lacrosse players? Here’s how to get involved:
🥍 Join a Lacrosse Club or League – Find a team that fits your skill level.
🎟️ Attend Local Lacrosse Games – Support Ottawa’s junior and university teams.
🥍 Participate in Summer Camps & Clinics – Get coached by experienced players and trainers.
🏆 Enter Lacrosse Tournaments – Compete in local and provincial events.
📢 Follow Ottawa Lacrosse on Social Media – Stay updated on signups, news, and gear deals.
Final Thoughts: Get in the Game!
Ottawa offers a thriving lacrosse community with competitive leagues, developmental programs, and excellent training facilities. Whether you’re just starting or aiming for a higher level, there’s a place for you in Ottawa’s lacrosse scene!
🥍 Grab your stick, hit the field, and play lacrosse with OttawaActive!
💬 What’s your favorite lacrosse memory? Share your experience with us! #OttawaActive
