Each team has at least two coaches: one head coach and one assistant. We're always looking for people to help out as coaches! 

Coach job responsibilities and descriptions are below. Here are some other helpful resources:

Compliance & registration

Certification clinics

Pregame checklist

All MGYL coaches are expected to:

• Complete CORI, fingerprinting, SafeSport training, and required coaching education as dictated by Mass Youth Lacrosse and MGYL. Coaches must be properly trained and badged to be on the field.
• Lead by example: focus, positivity, energy, and engaged team building. Every player is essential to every play.
• Attend all practices and games to the best of your ability.
• Communicate weekly with parents; subscribe to Athletic Field Status Updates for town notifications about field closures/openings and encourage parents to subscribe as well.
• Maintain access to the full roster and contact information at all practices and games in case of emergency.
• Use prepared practice plans and standard warmup formats to help maintain consistency across age groups.
• Start and end practices on time. Be ready to begin warmups 15 minutes before your designated field time (warmups can be on the side).
• Ensure players understand and maintain their equipment:
• Cut shafts that are too long
• Adjust strings for an appropriate pocket depth
• Mold mouthguards
• Tighten eyewear at home
• Follow USA Lacrosse youth rules for stick length and pocket depth
• Encourage seasonally appropriate clothing and secure ponytails/hair.
• Bring all required team equipment to the field: goalie equipment, ball bag, cones, first aid kit, etc.
• Manage goalie equipment: dedicated goalies should keep their gear bag; if rotating goalies, ensure equipment is ready and shared appropriately.
• Make sure no trash is left on the field; players are responsible for their belongings and trash.
• Always ensure a safe environment; stay on site until all players are safely picked up. If you hear thunder: sticks down and clear the field.

Head Coach – Job Description

The Head Coach leads the team’s overall development, ensuring a safe, positive, and competitive environment for players. This role requires clear communication, organization, and leadership both on and off the field.

Practice & Player Development

• Lead overall practice planning and execution using MGYL’s prepared practice plans and warmups.
• Ensure equal playing time as appropriate and rotate girls through different positions to support development.
• Manage goalie rotation:
• If rotating, identify 2 players the week prior so they can get practice time in goal before the weekend’s game.
• Reinforce safety and readiness: confirm equipment compliance, supervise stretching, and build in hydration breaks.

Game & Scheduling 

• By Wednesday before a home game: Confirm game time, location, arrival time, and warmup area with the opposing coach and officials (text or email is fine).
• Two days before a home game: Confirm your team’s roster and headcount. Confirm game location, arrival time (typically 30 minutes early), and warmup area with your team. Determine your game roster and plan substitutions in advance to support equal playing time and rotation through positions.
• Game day responsibilities: Bring ball bag and goalie equipment bags. Ensure the field is safe and properly set up: Cages and cones placed as needed,  For U11, ensure modified/shortened field dimensions; officials can help confirm placement. Meet with officials and opposing coach(es) before the game to review rules. Ensure all players and goalies have proper equipment (no earrings or jewelry) and are dressed appropriately (including hair tied back).
• If a game needs to be cancelled or rescheduled, contact Molly Huddleston ASAP.

Assistant Coach - Job Description

The Assistant Coach supports the Head Coach in all aspects of practices, games, and team management, with a particular focus on safety, skill development, and building team spirit.

Practice Support

• Support the Head Coach with planning and running practices, using MGYL practice plans and warmup formats.
• Lead warmups, small-sided drills, position-specific stations, or scrimmages as directed by the Head Coach.
• Reinforce safety practices during practice:
• Check that equipment fits properly and is worn correctly.
• Supervise stretching and hydration breaks.

Game Support

• Assist with pre-game warmups and help players transition quickly and safely on and off the field.
• Help monitor substitutions and support the Head Coach’s plan for equal playing time and positional rotation.
• Help ensure the field and sidelines are organized, safe, and free of trash after games.
• Motivate players and help build team spirit, resilience, and sportsmanship throughout the game day experience

Communication & Team Culture

• Support positive communication with parents by reinforcing league expectations and the Head Coach’s messages.
• Step in to help manage communication or logistics if the Head Coach is unavailable (e.g., helping relay field changes, arrival times, or last-minute updates).
• Model and encourage respect for officials, opponents, and teammates at all times.