Required Equipment
All players are required to have the following equipment to participate in lacrosse:
- helmet
- mouth guard
- shoulder/chest pads
- arm pads
- gloves
- cup
- cleats
- stick
There are many local sporting goods stores that carry lacrosse items such as Dick's Sporting Goods and Universal Lacrosse on Rt 22 .
Of course there are many vendors online that provide everything you could possibly need (and your kids want) for the game of lacrosse. However, if you have a new player, or you as a parent are new to the sport, it is recommended that you visit at least one of the local stores with your child to understand how each piece of equipment is meant to fit to ensure the proper protection. Many will have a discount for items purchased by mentioning Ridge Youth Sports, Inc. as your organization.
There are a couple of lacrosse specialty stores in our area. These stores will ensure proper fitting of all equipment.
Universal Lacrosse
Locations in NJ: Somerville, Skillman, Randolph, Moorestown, Freehold, Westfield, Flemington
906 RT 22
Somerville, NJ 08876
To visit their website CLICK HERE---> Universal Lacrosse
Lacrosse Unlimited of Madison, NJ
307-B Main Street
Madison, NJ 07940
973-377-1770
To visit their website CLICK HERE---> Lacrosse Unlimited
Label Equipment
It is very important that every player label every piece of equipment. You spent a lot of money on this gear! Make sure that if something gets left behind (and it will) that the person who finds it can easily determine who it belongs so you can get it back.
Helmets - write the name on a piece of tape on the outside of the helmet;
Pads and Gloves - typically not much room on the smaller pieces, but use a Sharpie and get at least a last name on a tag;
Sticks - use a Sharpie and write on the shaft both name and phone number, then cover with a piece of clear tape so that sweaty hands don't rub it off;
Gear Bags - use a bag tag or a piece of paper inside the bag with everything you can think of: Ridge Lacrosse, player's name, grade and phone number.
A Note About Mouth guards...
It is a good idea to stock up on mouth guards. Every child is required to wear one and they get lost very easily. Players are not permitted to practice or play games without one.
It is NOT the coaches responsibility to provide players with mouth guards.
Be prepared! We recommend that you buy several at a time. Have your player carry one extra in his gear bag and keep an extra at home - you'll need it. They come in several colors (and even flavors!) but black and green are difficult to find on the ground when dropped so maybe try bright colors. Also, they sell ones that tether to the helmet.
Got Stinky Gear??
Most do at some point. You can wash it! When you get to the point you can't take the smell any longer, toss arm guards, shoulder pads and gloves in the washing machine. A short or delicate cycle with mild detergent is fine. Do not put anything in the dryer. AIR DRY ALL ITEMS. Word to the wise: wash these items when you have a few days between practice or games to allow ample time for air drying. Your nose will thank you!