Kicking Off Lacrosse Season with Goals, Memories, and Good Sportsmanship

As the lacrosse season kicks off on Monday, January 27, I’m reminded that each year brings a fresh opportunity to set goals and chart a path for the first two weeks of the season. This is my time to gather my team and prepare not just for the X’s and O’s but for the journey ahead, both on and off the field.

It’s also a time of year when I fondly remember the hours I spent with my son Gordon, a prolific lacrosse official, discussing the rules, the nuances, and the many quirks of this incredible game. While we enjoyed many different activities together, lacrosse was always the glue—a topic that bonded us, inspired us, and fueled endless conversations.

Now, while I still "talk" to Gordon multiple times a day, the responses I get are...well, let’s just say they’re quieter than I’d prefer. Sometimes, I feel like I’m tossing my thoughts into the abyss. But every so often, I’ll spot something in nature or receive a subtle sign that reminds me Gordon is still right here, keeping an eye on me from the best seat in the house.

Looking back, I’m filled with pride thinking about the foundation we built—quite literally—with Atlanta Youth Lacrosse. For 27 years, Mary Jo, our kids Caitlin and Gordon, and their friends pitched in to create one of the top youth programs in the country. From building benches, shooting cages, and even a Scorers Tower (still standing strong!) to lining fields, setting up goals, coaching, officiating, and keeping scores, we worked to ensure every kid and their family fell in love with lacrosse. It was always about more than the game—it was about creating an unforgettable experience.

Now, as we launch into another season, youth and high school players are sharpening their skills, conditioning, and preparing for what’s ahead. No matter how the season ends—whether your team wins it all or takes a few more losses than planned—the real victory is in the experience. It’s about the memories made with teammates, the encouragement from coaches, and hopefully, the love for the game that keeps kids coming back year after year.

A Friendly Reminder from a Longtime Coach:

Cheer for your team. Celebrate their efforts. And for the love of lacrosse, leave the officials alone. They’re human (yes, even the youth officials), and they deserve respect.

As many of you know, Gordon was a passionate advocate for mental health and a dedicated educator of officials around the world. His legacy reminds us that officials are crucial to the game—and they’re doing their best. So, next time you’re tempted to "offer feedback" from the sidelines, take a breath, focus on the joy of watching your player, and remember that your positive energy makes a bigger difference than you realize.

Here’s to a great season ahead—on the field, in the stands, and in our hearts.

Here is a great video of all the things kids built at our fields - STAR VIDEO

Caitlin (Nick - Caitlin’s husband and a Soccer Coach and soon to be Lacrosse Coach), Mary Jo and Coach Lou

If you would like to Donate to the Gordon J. Corsetti Mental Agility Foundation please click here

Mental Agility Donation