U19

Central Alberta Lacrosse League (CALL) is excited to launch a U19 Division for the 2026 season. This program is designed for athletes who want to keep playing after U17 but are not pursuing Junior lacrosse. One practice a week, a minimum 8-game season, certified officials, and a chance to stay in the game in a flexible, development-focused environment.

Who Is the U19 Division For?

The U19 Division is intended for:

• Athletes who are NOT going to play Junior in the 2026 season

• Athletes who did NOT play Junior last season

• Players who want to keep a stick in their hands, stay active, and continue developing their skills

• Athletes who are not ready or not interested in the time, travel, and fee demands of a Junior schedule

Important Eligibility Disclaimer

The CALL U19 Division is NOT for players who:

• Are trying out for Junior in 2026

• Are already on a Junior Protected List

• Appeared on a Junior roster last season

• Intend to play Junior in the 2026 season

If an athlete plans to pursue Junior, the U19 division is not the correct placement.

Age Eligibility

• For the 2026 season, U19 is open to players born in 2007 or 2008.

• Players remain technically eligible to try out for Junior under ALA/RMLL rules, but those who intend to play Junior are not eligible for this U19 program.

Registration Details

• Registration opens: January 15

• Registration closes: March 20 (may be extended based on interest)

• How to register: Through the Central Alberta Lacrosse (CALL) website

• For the first season (2026), CALL will accept and control all U19 registrations.

• After the inaugural season, CALL will review interest and structure and may allow clubs to open their own U19 registrations for 2027.

Practices & Locations

• One (1) practice per week

• Practice locations will be based on the geographic distribution of registered athletes

• CALL will strive to minimize travel by forming regional practice groups where possible

Season Format

• Minimum 8-game season

• Game format will depend on numbers:

  • 5 vs 5 or

  • 4 vs 4

• Crossover weekends with other LGBs will be explored if there is interest and schedule alignment

• A playoff weekend will be added if registration numbers support a meaningful playoff format

• Season is expected to run from mid-April to late-June

Coaching & Officiating

• All games will be officiated by certified officials qualified to work U19 games

• Coaches must meet Competitive Introduction requirements for U17 and Junior lacrosse

U19 Officiating Incentive

To help grow the officiating pool in Central Alberta:

• Any U19 player who has not previously officiated with the ALRA will be offered:

  • Free ALRA official certification, paid for by CALL

  • A partial refund of their U19 player fees if they officiate games during the 2026 season

This is a great opportunity for athletes to earn money, stay involved, and support the game from a new perspective.

Why U19 Matters

The U19 Division helps to:

• Keep athletes in lacrosse who might otherwise stop playing after U17

• Provide a smoother and more flexible bridge toward adult and Junior programs

• Add “another option to keep sticks in hands” for older youth

• Support long-term player retention and the sustainability of clubs and programs across Central Alberta

Questions?

For more information, eligibility questions, or club planning support, please contact:

Central Alberta Lacrosse League (CALL) - Executive Director
centralalbertalacrosse@gmail.com