US LACROSSE CHAPTERS TRAINING GUIDE
2013
PART 1: US LACROSSE OVERVIEW
OVERALL LACROSSE PARTICIPATION
Over the past decade, the number of men, women and youths playing
lacrosse has increased another 9.6% each year to reach the estimated
684,730 people playing today.
Level
2001
2008
2009
2010
2011
Youth
125,000
265,214
297,271
324,673
361,275
High School
100,925
218,823
227,624
255,314
275,281
20,293
29,822
31,614
32,431
33,929
Professional
150
300
180
180
180
Post-College
7,563
10,071
11,342
12,201
14,065
253,931
524,230
524,230
624,593
684,730
College
Total
WHO IS US LACROSSE?
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Largest, all-encompassing resource for lacrosse knowledge.
Founded in 1998 as the National Governing Body of men’s, women’s and youth lacrosse.
Largest lacrosse organization in the world, focused primarily on youth (U19) lacrosse, education, safety
and opportunities for all.
Volunteer-based organization - national board of directors and executive committee with equal
representation from the men’s, women’s and youth games.
Headquarters is located in Baltimore, Md., with a staff of more than 70, plus volunteers and interns.
US Lacrosse has a network of chapters covering 43 states, committed to developing and promoting the
game starting at the grassroots level.
501 (c) (3) not-for-profit organization relies on membership dues, annual giving grants, endowments,
sponsorships to achieve organizational mission and vision.
Membership base grown to 400,000+ in 2011.
For more information about US Lacrosse’s organizational structure, board of directors, staff directory, and
strategic plan, please visit http://www.uslacrosse.org/UtilityNav/AboutUSLacrosse/Overview.aspx.
US LACROSSE
OUR MISSION
US Lacrosse is the national governing body of lacrosse. Through responsive and effective
leadership, US Lacrosse strives to provide programs and services to inspire participation while
protecting the integrity of the sport.
OUR VISION
We envision a future which offers people everywhere the opportunity to discover, learn,
participate in, enjoy and ultimately embrace the shared passion of the lacrosse experience.
CONTACT
US Lacrosse  113 West University Parkway  Baltimore, MD 21210
Phone: 410-235-6882  Fax: 410-366-6735  info@uslacrosse.org
www.uslacrosse.org  www.laxmagazine.com
US LACROSSE GROWTH
As the sport continues to grow, US Lacrosse membership has grown at an
average of 12% over the past 5 years to reach the current 385,540+
members today.
Level
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
Youth
150,710
172,729
189,607
223,701
255,171
High School
56,946
66,224
67,953
74,855
85,017
Adult
29,959
31,579
31,467
33,552
36,049
243,282
277,249
296,165
341,369
385,540
Total
**Note: The Total Membership figure is the summation of classifications other than those listed above.
USL MEMBERSHIP VS. PARTICIPATION
800000
600000
400000
Membership
200000
Participation
0
2007 2008
2009 2010
% of Participants
that are USL
Members
2011
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
49%
47%
44%
45%
44%
WHAT DOES US LACROSSE DO?
• US Lacrosse Provides:
– Membership Services & Benefits
– Men’s and Women’s Game
Management
– Men’s and Women’s National Teams
– Sport Development Programs &
Services
– Marketing and Communications to all
constituencies
– Special Events
– Lacrosse Hall of Fame and Museum
– Fundraising
BENEFITS OF USL MEMBERSHIP
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12 Issues of Lacrosse Magazine
Access to Events
Instruction from the game’s best players, coaches,
and officials
Annual email communication program highlighting
constituent specific benefit information
Membership card and bag tag
Enrollment in a Chapter
Supplemental accident Insurance for players and liability insurance for programs
Staff Support/Information Center
10% Off- Members receive 10% off all purchases at the US Lacrosse Store.
Partnership Benefits (e.g. Sports Authority coupons)
Access to Grants and Education
Membership Benefit Video
For more information on the Benefits available to all USL Members, please click HERE.
MEN’S /WOMEN’S GAME MANAGEMENT
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US Lacrosse staff members and volunteers play a critical role in developing the
rules and best practices for the sport.
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US Lacrosse, in conjunction with volunteer committees, develops and authors the
rules for the Women’s game
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For the Men’s game, US Lacrosse is a consultant with the National Federation of
High School (NFHS) and NCAA for the Men’s game
To purchase a rule book, please click HERE.
MEN’S /WOMEN’S GAME MANAGEMENT
In 2011, US Lacrosse deployed its first set of youth rules for the boys and girls game.
Along with developing the new rules with national volunteers, US Lacrosse also
produced its first Youth Rules and Best Practices Guidebook
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RULES- developed to focus on player development, team play, sportsmanship and safety
BEST PRACTICES- provide guidelines for youth lacrosse organizations to make sure the emphasis is where
it should be– on the health and well being of the children, and their enjoyment and development in the
game.
The rules and best practices in these guidebooks were
developed in conjunction with the US Lacrosse Sports
Science and Safety Committee, a diverse group of
professionals that specialize in a variety of disciplines
within the sports medicine field. Please click HERE to
reference the rules and best practices for each game.
For more information about rules for other levels of play, please click HERE.
ALL AMERICA PROGRAM
US Lacrosse annually coordinates All-American and
Academic All-American awards for boys’ and girls’ high
school players.
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All nominations must be submitted to the appropriate chair for
your region (varies by game)
All nominations are reviewed by a selection committee before
players are named an All American or an Academic All
American.
For additional information about the Boy’s All American Process,
please click HERE.
• USL Contact: Brian McGettigan (bmcgettigan@uslacrosse.org)
and Stephen Berger (sberger@uslacrosse.org)
For additional information about the Girl’s All American Process,
please click HERE.
• USL Contact: Liz Piper (lpiper@uslacrosse.org) and Melissa
Coyne (mcoyne@uslacrosse.org)
NATIONAL TEAMS
US Lacrosse coordinates all aspects of the men’s and women’s national teams program. The US
teams compete in sanctioned world championships through the Federation of International
Lacrosse.
The US team program has four primary teams:
1. U.S. Men’s Team (selected every four years)
2. U.S. Women’s Team (selected annually)
3. U.S. Men’s U-19 Team (selected every four years)
4. U.S. Women’s U-19 Team (selected every four years)
The National Teams hold clinics in conjunction with local chapters (see slide 28)
For more information about the National Teams, please click HERE.
SPECIAL EVENTS
US Lacrosse sponsors numerous events over the course of the year that appeal to players, coaches, officials, and fans of
the game.
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Champion Challenge–
features the U.S. Men’s and Women’s National Teams taking on the nation’s best collegiate competition
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WCLA National Championship-
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National Tournament-
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West Regional Championship-
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Central Regional Championship-
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Northeast Regional Championship-
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Southeast Regional Championship-
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All- American Showcase-
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Women’s Collegiate Lacrosse Associates National Championship
Celebration of the women’s game (division championships, US Team exhibition, high school all-star game)
U-11, U-13, and U-15 teams from the West compete
U-11, U-13, and U-15 teams from the Midwest compete
U-11, U-13, and U-15 teams from the Northeast compete
U-11, U-13, and U-15 teams from the Southeast compete
Features the nation’s elite high school players representing all corners of the United States.
9.
U-15 National Championship-
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Hall of Fame Ceremony
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Provides the highest level of national lacrosse competition for U-15 boys’ and girls’ teams
a celebration to honor the men and women, past and present, whose contribution to the game of lacrosse has been deemed worthy of their
induction into the National Lacrosse Hall of Fame.
National Convention–
The largest and most comprehensive educational and networking event in the lacrosse world
For details, exact locations, dates, and to register for each of these events, please click HERE.
SPECIAL EVENTS- NATIONAL CONVENTION
The US Lacrosse National Convention is the largest and most comprehensive
educational and networking event in the lacrosse world for coaches, officials, and
administrators held every January. There’s no better way to kick off the season than
by joining the sport’s best and brightest for a weekend of learning and networking, all
with the goal of “Raising Your Game” when you return to your local lacrosse program.
Convention Includes:
• Coaching Education Sessions
• Officials Education Sessions
• Guest speakers
• Live Field Demonstrations
• And much more!
For more information, please click HERE.
USL MUSEUM & HALL OF FAME
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Museum: Come discover and relive the origins of America’s oldest sport at the Lacrosse
Museum and Hall of Fame, located in Baltimore, MD!
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National Hall of Fame: initiated in 1957, the Hall of Fame annually inducts individuals based
on outstanding lacrosse achievement and/or contribution. The mission of the Lacrosse Hall
of Fame is to honor men and women, past and present, who by their deeds as players,
coaches, officials, and/or contributors personify the great contribution of the sport of
lacrosse to our way of life.
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For more information about the Museum, including pricing and hours, please click HERE.
For more information on the National Hall of Fame or to nominate someone to be inducted, please
click HERE. All nomination forms must be received by December 15th.
Chapter Halls of Fame: All chapters have the opportunity to establish and induct local “Hall
of Famers” into a Chapter Hall of Fame.
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To see a listing of Chapter Hall of Fames, including all inductees, please click HERE.
USL FOUNDATION—FUNDRAISING
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The philanthropic arm of US Lacrosse, the USL
Foundation works to generate resources above
and beyond membership revenue to support the
mission and vision of US Lacrosse.
Your donation directly impacts the programs and
services of US Lacrosse, enabling us to build on
our shared passion to strengthen the sport
through excellence.
To learn more or make a donation, please click
HERE.
LACROSSE MATTERS, YOUR GIFT MATTERS. DONATE
TODAY!
PART 2: US LACROSSE PROGRAMS
AND SERVICES
USL PROGRAMS AND SERVICES
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New Start Program
Physical Education Lacrosse Grant
First Stick Program
Gold Stick Program
Positive Coaching Alliance
AED Grant Program
Fast Break Initiative
Coaching Education Program
Officials’ Training Program
US National Team Clinics
NEW START PROGRAMS
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The New Start Program is a free resource for both members and non-members of
US Lacrosse. It provides all of the necessary tools, resources, and information you
need to launch lacrosse in your area.
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Simply apply online to receive immediate access to these materials:
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The US Lacrosse New Start Manual
Sample By-Laws
501 C3 (non-profit) provisions
US Lacrosse Risk Management Manual
The Preventing Physical and Sexual Abuse Guide
First Aid Kit Contents
Recruiting and Retaining Officials Information
Equipment Assistance Contacts
Copies of the USL Participation Survey
A School Presentation PowerPoint
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Please click HERE to learn more about the program.
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USL Contact: Meghan Mulford (mmulford@uslacrosse.org)
PHYSICAL EDUCATION GRANT
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Physical Education Lacrosse, also known as soft lacrosse, is a great way to
introduce the sport to your students and community.
US Lacrosse offers two physical education (PE) grant opportunities to assist
educators and other lacrosse stakeholders in introducing the sport of lacrosse.
1. National PE Lacrosse Workshop Program- provides in-service training opportunities
AND also awards equipment to workshop participants.
2. PE Equipment Grant Program- provides soft lacrosse equipment (30 soft lacrosse sticks,
30 soft lacrosse balls, 1 copy of the US Lacrosse PE Curriculum Guide and Reproducible
packet).
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Please click HERE to learn more about the PE Grant Program and to apply online.
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USL Contact: Meghan Mulford (mmulford@uslacrosse.org)
FIRST STICK PROGRAM
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The ultimate grassroots initiative for new and developing youth (U-19 and below)
lacrosse teams nationwide. This program is designed to deliver comprehensive
USL developmental and safety resources, equipment, USL membership and
coaching training to awarded teams. The end goal of each two-year partnership is
to develop self-sustaining youth lacrosse programs that operate by USL national
standards and best practices.
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Please click HERE to learn more about the program.
The application is available in April on the website and is due on
July 1st.
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USL Contact: Morgan Cook (mcook@uslacrosse.org)
GOLD STICK STANDARDS
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A self recognition program to honor and promote those leagues and events that
operate under all recommended USL standards and best practices. The Gold Stick
Standards embody the “Honor the Game” culture of our sport, and articulate the
most worthy objectives of youth sports programs.
US Lacrosse is currently working with a select number of leagues throughout the
country to pilot the Gold Stick Program, which will roll out nationally in the
summer of 2013.
The Seven Standards for Leagues in the Gold Stick Program:
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Rules
League Administration
Safety and Risk Management
Player Safety and Sportsmanship
Screened, Trained, and Certified USL Coaches
Trained/Certified USL Officials
Membership
Please click HERE for more information on the Gold Stick Program.
USL Contact: Billy Hook (bhook@uslacrosse.org)
POSITIVE COACHING ALLIANCE (PCA)
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US Lacrosse and PCA share the following vision: To equip all coaches with the training and
tools needed to become “Double-Goal Coaches”, where goal #1 is striving to win, and goal
#2, the more important one, is teaching life lessons via lacrosse.
PCA Double Coach 1 Course (Coaching for Winning and Life Lessons) is a current requirement
for the US Lacrosse’s Level 1 Coaching Certification. The course may be completed online or
at a live workshop.
Sportsmanship Matching Grant Program- USL will subsidize 50% of the cost of a 1-year PCA
Partnership to awarded organizations, consisting of up to 3 workshops, 100 free PCA books,
and much more.
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To learn more about the Grant Program and to APPLY, please click HERE
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If your chapter would like to host a PCA Clinic, please contact the
Sport Development Department at sportdevelopment@uslacrosse.org
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For more information about the Positive Coaching Alliance, please click HERE
AED GRANT PROGRAM
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In 2006, US Lacrosse entered a strategic alliance with Cardiac Science to provide
greater educational resources and special AED pricing for US Lacrosse members.
AED Matching Grants:
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AED Unit & Training Package- for $1395, awarded teams will receive one Powerheart AED G3 Plus
Automatic Unit, CPR Certification, as well as AED training and Program Management from Cardiac
Science
AED Unit Only- for $700, awarded teams will receive one Powerheart AED G3 Plus Automatic Unit,
complete with Rescue Coach and CPR metronome to pace chest compressions.
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To apply for an AED Grant, please click HERE. Applications are accepted twice a
year, with the first cycle due June 1st, and the second cycle due September 1st.
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For more information about the AED Grant Program, please click HERE
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USL Contact: Meghan Mulford (mmulford@uslacrosse.org)
FAST BREAK INITIATIVE
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An initiative started in 2005, designed to infuse a fledging lacrosse area with resources to
launch the sport from the roots up through educating COACHES, OFFICIALS, PLAYERS, and
ADMINISTRATORS all in one action packed weekend.
Targets an area that has a limited amount of lacrosse being played, but displays strong
enthusiasm for the sport and a willingness to learn and work with US Lacrosse to grow the
game responsibly.
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The local US Lacrosse chapter is responsible for hosting the Fast Break weekend
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US Lacrosse will provide some or all of the following programs for FREE to the attendees:
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Coaching Education Program
Officials’ Training Program
PE Lacrosse Workshop
For more information and to see what chapters have hosted before, please click HERE
If you would like to host a Fast Break weekend, please contact Meghan Mulford
(mmulford@uslacrosse.org)
COACHING EDUCATION PROGRAM
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The US Lacrosse Coaching Education Program (CEP) includes:
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Steps to become a Certified Coach:
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Level 1 and Level 2 Online courses for Men’s and Women’s Lacrosse
Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 Instructional clinics for Men’s and Women’s Lacrosse
Full Certification for Level 1 and Level 2 Men’s and Women’s Lacrosse
Continuing Education Opportunities
USL Membership
Purchase and pass a USL/NCSI Background Screening
USL Level 1 Online Course
Level 1 Instructional Clinic
PCA Double Goal Coach Workshop
If your chapter would like to host a CEP Clinic, please contact the Coaching
Education Department (cep@uslacrosse.org)
For more information on the CEP, please click HERE
OFFICIALS TRAINING PROGRAM
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USL develops and maintain the national standards and training programs for the certification
of men’s game and women’s game officials at all levels.
Online Courses: developed in 2012, each course will take the learner through the basics of
foul recognition in each game.
Resources such as videos, manuals, and senior officials’ mentorship programs are all available
online
Instructional Clinics: A platform of nationwide USL clinics offer men’s and women’s game
officials on and off field education, training, and evaluation.
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To find a local training clinic in your area, please reach out to the local DISTRICT TRAINING
COORDINATOR (MEN’S GAME) or the LOCAL BOARD CHAIR (WOMEN’S GAME)
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Scholarship Programs: The Officials Education Department awards scholarships to deserving
officials to subsidize the travel and registration costs associated with attending the USL
National Convention. For more details and to APPLY, please click HERE.
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For more information about the Officials Training Program, please click HERE
USL Contact: Charlie Obermayer and Lucia Clark (officials@uslacrosse.org)
US NATIONAL TEAM CLINICS
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US Lacrosse offers US National Team clinics for youth and high school players (age
6-18) each year. These clinics offer an excellent opportunity to learn from the top
players in the US, while also serving as a fundraiser for the US National Teams
program and the local chapter host.
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If your chapter is interested in hosting a National Team Clinic, applications are
available online starting in August each year. In addition, the National Teams
Department will send an application via mail to every Chapter President every
August.
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For more information about National Team Clinics, please click HERE.
USL Contact: Stacie Wentz (swentz@uslacrosse.org)
PART 3: US LACROSSE REGIONS AND
CHAPTER NETWORK
THE REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT TEAM
Sara Noon- Managing Director of Membership and Chapters
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E-Mail- snoon@uslacrosse.org
Phone- (410) 235-6882 ext 114
Steve Kirr- Director of Regional Development
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E-Mail- skirr@uslacrosse.org
Phone- (410) 235-6882 ext 122
Lindsay Comodore-Associate Director of Western Regional Development
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E-Mail- lcomodore@uslacrosse.org
Phone- (410) 235-6882 ext 189
Michael Cochran- Associate Director of Eastern Regional Development
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E-Mail- mcochran@uslacrosse.org
Phone- (410) 235-6882 ext 131
Ashleigh Logan- Chapter Relations Associate
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E-Mail- aslogan@uslacrosse.org
Phone- (410) 235-6882 ext 190
SARA NOON
Managing Director,
Membership
STEPHEN KIRR
Director, Regional
Development
LINDSAY COMODORE
Assoc. Director of Western
Regional Development
MICHAEL COCHRAN
Assoc. Director of Eastern
Regional Development
ASHLEIGH LOGAN
Chapter Relations
Associate
USL REGIONAL BREAKDOWN
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US Lacrosse is represented by 64 regional chapters
serving 43 states throughout the country.
Chapters are divided into the following regions:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
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Pacific (8 chapters)
Mountain (5 chapters)
North Central (1 chapter)
South Central (6 chapters)
Great Lakes (8 chapters)
South East (8 chapters)
Mid-Atlantic (16 chapters)
New England (12 chapters)
Each chapter has an Executive Board that works
with USL National
The establishment of Chapters is designed to unite
lacrosse enthusiasts within a given geographic
region to advance the objectives of US Lacrosse.
For more information and a full listing of chapters,
please click HERE.
CHAPTER DNA
“A US Lacrosse Chapter shares the
same DNA as US Lacrosse. Chapters
are seen as a volunteer led extension
of USL and its
501(c)3 charitable status sharing local
responsibility for serving the lacrosse
community.”
––Chapter Effectiveness Subcommittee (CES)
Report, June 1, 2012
CHAPTER DEFINITION
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Chapter Definition A chapter of US Lacrosse is an extension of the national organization. A chapter unifies,
promotes, and provides programs and services to the many aspects of men’s and women’s lacrosse in its
geographic area. Each chapter serves as a conduit to the national headquarters of US Lacrosse and has the
authority to conduct business conforming with the approved requirements outlined in the Chapter
Agreement (version, September 2009) and the US Lacrosse Board/Council/Committee member Conflict of
Interest Policy.
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Each chapter of US Lacrosse is responsible for the following:
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To serve as a geographic focal point for the education and development of lacrosse. And to bring US Lacrosse
programs & services to members in their jurisdiction.
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Actively and consistently communicate to chapter members.
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To serve as the unbiased, umbrella support organization for the responsible growth of the sport in their area.
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To honor players, coaches, and officials whose skill and conduct on the field and in their business and professional
lives inspire in the youth of the nation a high regard for the game of lacrosse.
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To completely understand the purpose and responsibilities of US Lacrosse - to organize all levels of men’s and
women’s lacrosse under one given body, and to regularly and effectively interact with other chapter areas in the areas
of lacrosse promotion, expansion, preservation, information, education and networking.
CHAPTER AS REGIONAL SUPPORT
• Chapters support the US Lacrosse mission and vision.
• Chapters promote US Lacrosse national priorities and implement national
strategies.
• Chapters promote programs and services to all members, players,
leagues, groups, families, coaches, officials, program administrators, and
others in the lacrosse community to inspire participation while
protecting the integrity of the sport.
• Chapters supplement the national organization, but do not replace it.
CHAPTER INCORPORATION
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Requirement
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Why Incorporate?
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If you go to this link: http://www.irs.gov/charities/article/0,,id=167760,00.html you will find a link and
phone number to every state. If you click on your state, please note you will be asked to leave the IRS
website to go to an independent state website for information.
Costs
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If some unfortunate incident should happen (such as an injury at a tournament or fund raising event), and
the injured party decides to sue, those managing an unincorporated organization are more likely to face
personal liability. Incorporation does not guarantee the chapter leadership will not be sued , but it does
provide a measure of defense. The corporation would be the defendant instead of the individuals.
IRS Information about Incorporation
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US Lacrosse requires each chapter to incorporate in their state. For legal reasons at both the national and
local levels, it is in the best interest of the chapter to maintain an incorporated status.
The costs for becoming incorporated will vary from state to state. The costs will include a filing fee and in
some states an advertising fee to publish the fact of incorporation. In addition, unless someone does the
legal work for free (“pro bono”), there will be the costs of preparing the legal documents - the articles of
incorporation (“charter”) and bylaws.
IMPORTANT:
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Chapters are prohibited from incorporating or setting up an account as "US Lacrosse XX" or “US Lacrosse XX
a Chapter of US Lacrosse”. The individual chapter name must come before ‘US Lacrosse’. It needs to be of
the form: “The XXXXXX Chapter of US Lacrosse, Inc.”.
OBTAINING AN EIN
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What is an EIN?
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How to obtain a Federal EIN
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Federal Employee Identification Number
Each Chapter of US Lacrosse must obtain its own federal Employer Identification Number (EIN). This is a
separate task from becoming incorporated. As an incorporated entity, separate from US Lacrosse, with its
own EIN, the Chapter will be considered as a tax exempt entity under US Lacrosse’s Group Exemption
number, so the local chapter is not required to file for its own determination letter from the IRS. See Section
5 for more detailed guidance on non-profit status. The local chapter will conduct all business under its own
EIN for any tax exempt activities or business.
http://www.irs.gov/businesses/small/article/0,,id=97860,00.html
Your chapter can obtain an EIN through the IRS at
Here is a link to applicable IRS phone numbers for further guidance:
http://www.irs.gov/help/article/0,,id=96730,00.html
How to change your chapter information with the IRS:
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For a chapter to change its address for IRS purposes only, go to www.irs.gov and search for 8822. Complete
section two of form and send to appropriate address noted on page 2. The direct link to IRS Form 8822 is
http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f8822.pdf. A chapter change of address should occur when the address on
file belongs to a past board member who is no longer affiliated with the chapter in any formal capacity as an
executive member. As a recommendation, the address on file should belong to either the president of the
chapter or the Treasurer. Once a change of address is processed the chapter should immediately contact US
Lacrosse with the updated information and provide a copy of the change to the person responsible for
filing your tax return.
CHAPTER TAXES
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TAX YEAR:
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TAX EXEMPTION:
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In 2003, US Lacrosse moved to a December 31st Fiscal year end. In order to have consistency among
all chapters, it is now required that all Chapters adopt a December 31st year end for their
corporation.
US Lacrosse chapters have the incredible benefit of being able to fall under the organizations tax
exempt umbrella. While chapters must obtain their own EIN, and Incorporate in their own state they
still benefit greatly from the 501(c)(3) status under US Lacrosse. A chapter may choose to operate
with their own 501(c)(3) if they choose, however; they may have to incur certain responsibilities such
as increased IRS filing requirements.
What’s a “501(c)(3) organization”?
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“501(c)(3)” refers to a section of the Internal Revenue Code, which is the law that governs federal
income tax. A non-profit organization is exempt from federal income tax because it meets the
requirements of section 501(c)(3).
PART 5: CHAPTER PROGRAMS
CHAPTER SPECIFIC PROGRAMS
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Chapter Recognition Program
Chapter Grant Program
Chapter Hall of Fame
Chapter Fundraisers
Chapter E-Mail Blast
CHAPTER RECOGNITION PROGRAM
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US Lacrosse is pleased to recognize the hard work of local US Lacrosse chapters
through the Chapter Recognition Program. This program is designed to recognize
chapters for their outstanding performance in fulfilling US Lacrosse’s mission to
provide programs and services to inspire participation while preserving the
integrity of the sport.
– This award is granted quarterly and the awarded chapter receives a certificate, outreach
via several USL channels of communication, announcement at national convention
chapter events, and grant funding.
– Chapters are nominated by the Chapter Relations Department and staff at USL, then
contacted for an interview.
– The awardee is selected by vote of the chapters’ committee after reviewing recent and
upcoming activities of the chapter, compliance status as well as long term goals.
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For more information, and to read about past awarded chapters, please click HERE.
USL Contact: Ashleigh Logan (aslogan@uslacrosse.org)
CHAPTER GRANT PROGRAM
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US Lacrosse annually provides grants to its chapters in order to assist with the
funding of programs and services to support the growth of the sport in local areas.
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The number of grants awarded and the amounts awarded depend on how many applications are
submitted and the actual programs for which they are funding.
Chapters must submit a Grant Application in order to be awarded
Only 100% compliant chapters are eligible to apply
Application Period is June 15th – August 15th
All applications are reviewed by the Grant Review Committee
Award Letters are distributed by October 1st
The Chapter Grant Program will be offered biannually starting in 2014!
•
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For more information and to read about past awarded grants, please click HERE.
USL Contact: Ashleigh Logan (aslogan@uslacrosse.org)
CHAPTER HALL OF FAME
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•
Many chapters annually or biyearly host local Hall of Fame events to recognize and induct
local “famers” who have accomplished an outstanding lacrosse achievement and/or made a
noteworthy contribution to the sport.
Chapters are responsible to nominate, select, and honor the local lacrosse legends at a Hall of
Fame event of their choice.
•
For a full listing of Chapter Hall of Fame Inductees, please click HERE.
•
Please see a few of the local Hall of Fame events highlighted on our CHAPTER NEWS page.
Please e-mail Ashleigh Logan with a Listing of Inductees, Location and Date of your Chapter’s
next Hall Of Fame Event.
CHAPTER FUNDRAISING
•
We encourage chapters to hold local fundraisers to supplement the financial
support from US Lacrosse.
•
Recommended Fundraisers:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Local Tournament
Hall of Fame Events
Host a Moe’s Southwest Grill Benefit Night
Odor Balance
•
In addition to the above, please feel free to invent your own Chapter Fundraisers
and share those that work with us at US Lacrosse and the chapter network!
•
For more information about the Recommended Fundraisers, please click HERE.
E-MAIL BLAST PROCEDURE
US Lacrosse can send out an e-mail blast to your chapter members on your behalf up
to one time per month.
•
How to send an E-Mail Blast:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Draft the content within a word document, pdf, e-mail, etc. Please include all artwork needed.
E-Mail content to Ashleigh Logan at least 2 weeks before it needs to be sent out
Ashleigh will submit the content to the Communications Department and a List Request to the IT
department.
The Communications Department will integrate the content into a USL template and distribute to
your chapter members.
•

NOTE: due to the workload of the Communications Department, this process takes 8-10 BUSINESS DAYS. We
do our best to accommodate each request as quickly as possible.
If you would also like to send the blast to surrounding chapters, please contact the other chapter
president first for their permission. You will need to e-mail the desired content, ask for their approval,
and then forward their approval to Ashleigh.
MEMBERSHIP LIST REQUEST
US Lacrosse can provide you with a list of current USL Members in your
Chapter at any given point. We can also provide a listing of USL Members by
State.
• In order to request a listing, please contact Ashleigh Logan.
Please Remember:
– US Lacrosse can only supply Membership List to the Chapter President or with
approval of the Chapter President to another executive board member
– All Membership Information is STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL
– The Chapter can not provide any Membership Information to any third party
USL BRANDING
• Branding Guidelines:
– Please reference the below link for the USL Branding Guidelines for the US Lacrosse logo, and
the US Lacrosse Chapter Logos.
– US Lacrosse Branding Guidelines
– The Chapter can not provide the US Lacrosse logo to any third party vendor without first
obtaining the written approval by US Lacrosse.
• Banners:
– US Lacrosse can get a Chapter Banner, featuring your Chapter Logo produced for you. If you
need a Chapter Banner for an upcoming event, please contact Ashleigh at least 3 weeks prior
to the event.
• Chapter Logo:
– If you need your Chapter Logo file (.jpg or .ia), please reach out to Ashleigh
CHAPTER PROMOTIONAL ITEMS
US Lacrosse has partnered with Target Marketing to build a website where Chapters can order promotional
items and branded apparel.
http://www.targetlogosonline.com/uslacrosse/
HOW TO PLACE AN ORDER:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Go to http://www.targetlogosonline.com/uslacrosse/
Log-In to your account
Select the item you’re interested in
Select the logo you want to personalize the item with (Primary Logo or Chapter Logo)
Indicate the Quantity you would like to order
Push “Add to Cart”
Review order, and select “Checkout”
Complete the necessary Billing and Shipping Information
Pay by Credit Card or elect to be Billed
Confirm Order
If you do not see the item that you are looking for, please visit http://www.tmgcatalog.com/ to view Target
Marketing’s full product catalog. Any item not offered on the site, must be approved by USL before ordering.
CHAPTER SPONSORSHIP PROCESS
If your Chapter has sponsorship opportunities to present to the lacrosse market, please:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Notify USL Chapters Director (Steve Kirr) and USL’s Sponsorship Manager (Rob Scherr).
Identify which company has solicited you, or which company you would like to solicit.
Identify terms including the value and cost of the sponsorship, category of
sponsorship, Chapter region represented, and length of the proposed agreement.
Identify the full list of assets and benefits associated with all activation, including
tangible and intangible benefits (what you are doing for sponsor and what the
sponsor is doing for you). If there are specific cost for certain assets or programs,
please include those costs.
•
Please also include any ideas or thoughts on where the potential sponsorship relationship can go in
the future (3-5 years down the line).
Our goal is to assist you with the valuation and setting up of the sponsorships to make
sure you are getting the maximum amount of resources you require to run effective
programs and events.
ANNUAL CHAPTER RESPONSIBILITIES
Complete CHAPTER CERTIFICATION (formerly known as Chapter Compliance) by May 31st
Conduct an ANNUAL MEETING of it’s membership
Submit MINUTES from all Chapter Meetings
Have a minimum of TWO EVENTS PER YEAR TO PROMOTE LACROSSE (tournaments, youth festival teams,
golf events, play days, clinics, Hall of Fame ceremony, CEP, etc.)
5. Administer a minimum of ONE CHAPTER GRANT OR OUTREACH PROGRAM ANNUALLY (provide funding,
equipment, and/or other support to a local entity)
6. Integrate SPORTSMANSHIP, PARTICIPATION AND DIVERSITY into all applicable chapter programs and
services.
7. Establish and Maintain the CHAPTER’S WEBSITE (template provided by USL)
8. Comply with US Lacrosse’s GUIDELINES FOR THE USE OF ITS LOGO AND NAME (Chapters must identify
themselves as ‘a regional chapter of US Lacrosse’ and use the Chapter logo supplied by US Lacrosse)
9. Do NOT ENDORSE ANY THIRD PARTY PRODUCT/SERVICE or permit the chapter/USL name/logo on any
third party marketing without prior consent
10. Acknowledge that any MEMBERSHIP LIST IS PROPERTY OF USL and the Chapter can not disclose this
information to anyone else without approval from USL. (Chapter Membership List can only be requested by
or with the Chapter President’s approval)
1.
2.
3.
4.
PART 6: CHAPTER CERTIFICATION
CHAPTER CERTIFICATION
• CHAPTER CERTIFICATION CHECKLIST:
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Board Roster
Chapter By-Laws
Financial Summary
Tax Documentation
Chapter Agreement
Conflict of Interest Policy
Participation Survey
D&O Insurance Policy Coverage
Chapter Effectiveness Initiative
Minutes from all Board Meetings
Constituent Planning & Budget
Submit Annually by May 31st
Submit Annually by May 31st
Submit Annually by May 31st
Submit Annually by May 31st
Submit Annually by May 31st
Submit Upon Change/Add.
Submit Annually by Dec. 31st
Submit Annually by May 31st
Submit Annually by May 31st
Post on Chapter Website
Submit by July 1st
Please submit documents to Ashleigh Logan. Chapter Certification Tool coming soon!
BOARD ROSTER
•
WHAT IS THIS?
– A listing of all Chapter Board Members including their name, e-mail address, mailing address,
USL Membership #, and beginning and end term dates.
•
WHY DOES IT MATTER?
– It is important to provide a listing of ALL chapter board members; executive committee and
extended board positions. This section allows US Lacrosse staff to monitor the current
chapter board.
•
WHO NEEDS TO COMPLETE THIS?
– The chapter president is responsible for ensuring completion of this section. He/She will need
to ask their board members to update their information when necessary. The Chapter
President will have the ability to change the role of individuals that make up the board, but
can not edit the contact information for individual board members. They will need to make
those changes within their own profiles.
•
THINGS TO CONSIDER:
– Please update the Board Roster upon any change in officer or addition of a new position.
– Although each individual board member is responsible for updating their contact information,
and maintaining a current membership, the chapter president is responsible for seeing that
this task is completed.
CHAPTER BY-LAWS
•
WHAT IS THIS?
– This document (like the Chapter Agreement) details operations for the chapter including term
limits, board composition, and voting protocol. Template is provided by US Lacrosse.
•
WHY DOES IT MATTER?
– The Chapter By-Laws are important because they determine how chapters are governed.
•
WHO NEEDS TO COMPLETE THIS?
– Each executive board member (President, Vice President, Treasurer, and Secretary) will need
to complete this step. It requires each member to review, and answer questions regarding the
document.
•
THINGS TO CONSIDER:
– If your chapter operates as an independent 501c3, and has a restricted fund that doesn’t allow
for alignment with the USL bylaws template, the last section allows for an addendum to be
attached. Any changes to the template bylaws will need to be reviewed and accepted by the
US Lacrosse staff and Governance committee.
FINANCIAL SUMMARY
•
WHAT IS THIS?
– A financial statement that reports all of the chapter’s expenses and revenues for the previous
fiscal year.
•
WHY DOES IT MATTER?
– US Lacrosse chapters are responsible for appropriately spending resources to support the
members and constituents within their chapter area. In order for US Lacrosse to gauge the
impact of each chapter’s investments in the community, a financial report must be produced
annually. This also allows the USL Finance department to review and audit chapter spending.
•
WHO NEEDS TO COMPLETE THIS?
– Each chapter will need to complete this requirement annually. The Chapter President is
responsible for completion of this task, but many assign the execution of the task to the
Chapter Treasurer.
•
THINGS TO CONSIDER:
– The more detail included in the financial report, the better. US Lacrosse will review all
financial summaries submitted, and will ask the chapters to elaborate if sufficient information
is not provided. If necessary, US Lacrosse staff will ask the chapter questions about certain
line items.
TAX DOCUMENTATION
•
WHAT IS THIS?
– Each chapter must submit a 990, 990EZ, or ePostcard to the IRS annually. Submit the IRS
confirmation to US Lacrosse when sent to the IRS but no later than November 30th. For more
information about tax filing requirements for non-profits, please click HERE.
•
WHY DOES IT MATTER?
– Each chapter is included within the US Lacrosse 501c3, through group exemption. It is
imperative for the chapters to submit tax returns annually, so as to not jeopardize the tax
exempt status of the National Governing Body (US Lacrosse).
•
WHO NEEDS TO COMPLETE THIS?
– Each chapter will need to complete this requirement annually. The Chapter President is
responsible for completion of this task, but may assign the execution of the task to the
Chapter Treasurer.
•
THINGS TO CONSIDER:
– Failure to complete this task puts the chapter and US Lacrosse at risk for the revocation of taxexempt status.
– When you file your chapter’s tax return, the first name in the name block must be the name of
the parent organization, aka: US Lacrosse, Inc. The second line is the name of the subordinate
filing, aka: the chapter. Please also make sure that you use the tax ID of the subordinate, and
not that of the parent (even though the parent's name is on the tax return).
CHAPTER AGREEMENT
•
WHAT IS THIS?
–
•
WHY DOES IT MATTER?
–
•
It details the responsibilities of the chapter in order to maintain good standing with US Lacrosse.
WHO NEEDS TO COMPLETE THIS?
–
•
The Chapter Agreement is the “contract” between the Chapter and US Lacrosse.
Each executive board member (President, Vice President, Treasurer, and Secretary) will need to
complete this step. It requires each member to review, and answer questions regarding the
document.
THINGS TO CONSIDER:
–
–
It is imperative for each board member to review and sign the document. The document includes
many details regarding the operations of a chapter, all of which need to be digested by all executive
board members.
If your chapter needs to make any changes to the USL Chapter Agreement terms, the last section
allows for an addendum to be attached. Any changes to the agreement will need to be reviewed and
accepted by the US Lacrosse staff and Governance Committee.
CONFLICT OF INTEREST
•
WHAT IS THIS?
– A document where each board member is asked to disclose any conflicts of interest they may
have.
•
WHY DOES IT MATTER?
– It is important to disclose any possibilities of conflict with the organization, when holding a
leadership position within a chapter.
•
WHO NEEDS TO COMPLETE THIS?
– The Chapter President is responsible for ensuring board completion of this section. Each
chapter executive board member (President, Vice President, Treasurer, and Secretary) is
required to complete their own Conflict of Interest form.
•
THINGS TO CONSIDER:
– Any conflicts of interest must be disclosed to hold a leadership position on the chapter board.
PARTICIPATION SURVEY
•
WHAT IS THIS?
–
•
WHY DOES IT MATTER?
–
•
The Participation Survey is very important for US Lacrosse and the Communications Department.
The participation survey is routinely used by athletic departments, school districts and other
governing associations to help make decisions regarding sponsorship of the sport of lacrosse in their
programs. USL also receives frequent requests from local, regional, and national media seeking
current participation information and historical date to analyze trends.
WHO NEEDS TO COMPLETE THIS?
–
•
The US Lacrosse Participation Survey is produced annually to monitor participation at different levels
of the sport across the country. The primary source of data for this report are surveys completed by
the active US Lacrosse regional chapters. To see past Participation Surveys, please click HERE.
The Chapter President is responsible for completion of this task. He/She may assign the task to
another board member, however the president will be accountable for meeting the deadline
(December 31st).
THINGS TO CONSIDER:
–
The Participation Survey is completed through this link. Further instructions and webinar are
detailed on the Chapter Certification tool.
D&O INSURANCE
•
WHAT IS THIS?
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–
–
•
WHY DOES IT MATTER?
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•
All chapters are required to have a current D&O policy in order to protect against any claims.
WHO NEEDS TO COMPLETE THIS?
–
•
Directors & Officers Liability insurance protects sports organization and their members from claims
arising out of wrongful acts or errors and omissions. Coverage under this program is provided to any
member of the organization while acting in an official capacity on behalf of the chapter.
Chapters are to acquire D&O Insurance through Bollinger Insurance Solutions.
For more information, including pricing, please click HERE.
The Chapter President is responsible for completion of this task. He/She may assign the task to
another board member, however the president will be accountable for meeting the deadline.
THINGS TO CONSIDER:
–
Bollinger Insurance will typically send notices to each chapter when their policy is up for renewal.
Please keep an eye on your policy dates, so the chapter always has a current policy.
MINUTES
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WHAT IS THIS?
–
•
WHY DOES IT MATTER?
–
•
This is important so US Lacrosse staff can see what was discussed and covered at each board
meeting, and minutes can be shared with constituents that did not attend the meeting.
WHO NEEDS TO COMPLETE THIS?
–
•
Chapters are responsible for recording minutes from all chapter board meetings and submitting
them by uploading them to their chapter website. See sample template on next slide.
The Chapter President is responsible for completion of this task, but generally this falls as a
responsibility of the Chapter Secretary.
THINGS TO CONSIDER:
–
Minutes can be submitted in any form, but US Lacrosse suggests using the template on the next
slide.
MINUTES TEMPLATE
[Meeting T itle]
[Pic k the dat e]
[Meeti n g T ime]
[Meeti n g Loc at i o n ]
Meet i n g c alled by
T ype of meeti n g
Fac ili t a t or
Note tak er
T imek e e p er
Atten d e es
[Agenda T opic]
[T ime allot t e d]
[Pres en t e r]
Dis c us s ion
•
If you would like to use this
template, please download the
template from HERE.
•
After each board meeting, please
upload your Meeting Minutes to
your chapter website.
Conc lus i o ns
Ac tion Items
Pers on Res pon s i b l e
Deadl i n e
[Agenda T opic]
[T ime allot t e d]
[Pres en t e r]
Dis c us s ion
Conc lus i o ns
Ac tion Items
Pers on Res pon s i b l e
Deadl i n e
Pers on Res pon s i b l e
Deadl i n e
[Agenda T opic]
[T ime allot t e d]
[Pres en t e r]
Dis c us s ion
Conc lus i o ns
Ac tion Items
CHAPTER EFFECTIVENESS INITIATIVE
•
Background: In June 2011, a new subcommittee of the Regional Chapters
Committee was established. The Chapter Effectiveness Subcommittee (CES) was
given the charge to further develop the:
1. Core Strategies
2. Performance Indicators
3. Optimum Financial Model
4. Revised Chapter Agreement and Chapter By-Laws
•
Outcome: A series of recommendations that can assist the Chapter network in
more efficiently and effectively providing support and services to the growing
lacrosse community, including the following:
• Develop a regional staffing model to support the chapter network
• Provide expanded resources to constituents and constituent organizations
• Revise Chapter By-Laws to provide concrete guidance on board structure and
term limits. Chapter Agreement revised 2/2012.
RESOURCE ALLOCATION PROCESS
Effective January 2014, national resources will be allocated on an equitable basis among the
Chapter network based on specific criteria including the density of USL membership within a
Chapter area.
Step
1
Step
2
Step
3
Chapter Compliance Support
$2,500 will automatically be deposited at the beginning of the
calendar year to cover compliance costs.
Chapter Program Budget Support
Develop/submit a Chapter Constituent Support Budget (CSB) for the
upcoming calendar year (details on slide 60-62).
Chapter Grant Opportunity
A Chapter Grant Program opportunity will be available to the local
chapters twice a year.
CSB PLANNING PROCESS
•
WHAT IS THIS?
–
•
WHY DOES IT MATTER?
–
•
In order to receive funds, each chapter will need to submit a plan and budget to support the
members and constituents within their chapter area. Without completion of this step, the chapter
will not receive funds from US Lacrosse.
WHO NEEDS TO COMPLETE THIS?
–
•
Constituent planning is the basis for distribution of funds for US Lacrosse chapters.
The Chapter President is responsible for completion of this task, however it is crucial for all executive
chapter board members to partake in the execution of the task. The process is a collaborative effort
between the chapter board, and constituent groups within the chapter area.
THINGS TO CONSIDER:
–
Constituent Planning is one of the most important pieces of the process. It is the vehicle for chapters
to receive money from US Lacrosse to support their areas. It also allows US Lacrosse staff to monitor
the progress and impact each chapter has in their area.
CSB PLANNING PROCESS
WHAT IS THE CSB?
•
(CSB) is the Constituent Support Budget, it is a budget planning process created by the (CES)
Chapter Effectiveness Subcommittee in 2012.
•
The CSB is an integral part of the New Resource Allocation Budget program which replaces
the old rebate system in 2014.
•
The New Resource Allocation Budget is the method that Chapters will use to receive funds to
operate the chapter, provide programs and services for constituent organizations and apply
for grants to augment the needs of the constituents in their region.
•
The CSB Planning session is the process that each US Lacrosse Chapter will undergo with all
of its constituent organizations , groups, leagues , townships , counties and or municipalities
that require programmatic needs.
CSB PLANNING PROCESS
THE CSB PROCESS HAS 3 PHASES:
 PHASE 1: Chapter Leadership Meeting to develop Performance Indicator Plan
– Self assessment
– Plan vs. Actual review
 PHASE 2: Chapter/League meeting to develop priority list of programs and services
 PHASE 3: Chapter leadership meeting to finalize CSB
– Allocations against performance indicators
– Allocations to support needs of groups/leagues
– Work with USL staff to build your Constituent Budget
THANK YOU!!
On behalf of all US Lacrosse Staff, thank you very much for
everything you do!