Jr. Bandits Academy

Jr. Bandits Academy

Jr. Bandits Academy

Grades 2-4 | Learn the Fastest Game on Two Feet!

Registration is not currently open. We will update this page when we have an official registration date

The Jr. Bandits Academy is designed to introduce boys and girls in Grades 2-4 to the exciting game of box lacrosse. Whether your child is picking up a stick for the first time or looking to build a stronger foundation, this six-session program focuses on developing fundamental skills in a fun, positive, and structured environment.

Throughout the program, participants will learn progressively each week, with new skills building on previous sessions. The Academy concludes with a game on the final day, giving players the opportunity to showcase everything they've learned.

Program Details

Location: Epic Center, 2793 Wehrle Dr., Williamsville, NY 14221

Session Dates:

  • Monday, February 22

  • Monday, March 1

  • Monday, March 8

  • Monday, March 15

  • Monday, March 22

  • Monday, April 5

*All dates are subject to change.

Times: 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Registration Fee

  • Runners: TBD

  • Goalies: $50

    *All Jr. Bandits programs have a strict no-refund policy.

Who Can Register?

  • Boys & Girls in Grades 2-4

  • Limited to 40 runners and 4 goalies

  • Registration is first come, first served.

What Players Will Learn

Each session will build upon the previous week's instruction and focus on developing:

  • Proper stick handling

  • Passing and catching fundamentals

  • Shooting technique

  • Ground balls

  • Offensive and defensive positioning

  • Box lacrosse concepts and game awareness

  • Small-area games and skill competitions

The final session on April 5 will feature a game where participants can showcase the skills they've developed throughout the Academy.

All Participants Will Receive

  • Six on-floor instructional sessions led by select Bandits players and local coaches

  • Jr. Bandits reversible pinnie

  • Jr. Bandits T-shirt

  • Two ticket vouchers redeemable for any available 2026-27 Buffalo Bandits regular-season home game (subject to availability)

  • Player of the Session prizes

  • Access to purchase exclusive Jr. Bandits Team Store merchandise

Equipment Required

Participants must provide their own equipment.

Runners

  • Lacrosse helmet with cage (field helmets are permitted)

  • Shoulder pads

  • Elbow pads

  • Lacrosse gloves (hockey gloves are permitted)

  • Athletic cup (recommended)

  • Lacrosse stick (no long poles or wooden sticks)

  • Indoor athletic shoes (no cleats; play will take place on sport court)

  • Kidney pads and bicep pads (recommended)

Goalies

  • Full goalie equipment (equipment is not available to borrow and must be supplied by the participant)

  • Goalie stick

Why Box Lacrosse?

Box lacrosse helps players develop:

  • Faster hands and quicker decision-making

  • Improved stick skills

  • Better offensive creativity

  • Strong defensive positioning

  • Confidence with the ball in tight spaces

These skills translate directly to field lacrosse while helping players become more confident and creative in a fast-paced environment.

Program Goal

Our goal is to provide young athletes with a fun and positive introduction to box lacrosse while building confidence, developing fundamental skills, and fostering a lifelong love of the game. By the end of the Academy, participants will have a strong understanding of the basics and be prepared to continue their development through future Jr. Bandits programs.

We look forward to welcoming your family to the Jr. Bandits Academy this winter!

Stay Connected

Follow @BanditsYouthLax for Academy updates, registration announcements, and future Jr. Bandits programming.

  • Instagram: @BanditsYouthLax

  • X: @BanditsYouthLax

  • Facebook: @BanditsYouthLax

Questions?

Please contact Dan Ristine at Dan.Ristine@Bandits.com for additional information.