About Kougarz
Elite Player Development
Kougarz is a premier box lacrosse organization serving the North Shore of Massachusetts. We specialize in developing 5th through 8th grade and high school players through high-level training and competitive gameplay. Our program features age-appropriate competitive teams, ensuring development and competition suited to every player.
Character & Teamwork
Our program emphasizes skill development, teamwork, and sportsmanship. We provide young athletes with the tools they need to excel both on and off the field through character building and team unity.
Competitive Tournament Play
Our team competes in tournaments against other competitive programs throughout the region. Players gain valuable experience facing top-level competition while representing Kougarz in organized league play and championship events.
Massachusetts Lacrosse Community
Located in the heart of Massachusetts' lacrosse community, we are committed to fostering the next generation of lacrosse players through innovative training methods and a supportive team environment.
Coaching Staff
Experienced coaches with elite-level playing backgrounds
Derek Yannone
Derek brings elite-level experience to Kougarz, having played collegiately at Endicott College where he developed his passion for the game. Currently a free agent in the National Lacrosse League (NLL), Derek has been coaching for over 6 years with faceoff specialists, where he teaches toughness, grit, and perseverance. He combines professional-level insight with a deep commitment to developing mental and physical resilience in young athletes.
Matt Faucher
Matt completed his lacrosse career at Endicott College, where he was always focused on fundamental skills and higher-level thinking in the sport. This dedication to the mental aspects of lacrosse made him both a smart player and an intelligent coach. His coaching philosophy emphasizes technical precision, strategic understanding, and developing the cognitive skills that separate good players from great ones.
About Box Lacrosse
Understanding the fast-paced indoor game that develops elite lacrosse skills
What is Box Lacrosse?
Box lacrosse is played indoors in a hockey rink-sized arena with boards and glass. Teams play 6-on-6 (including goalies) in a fast-paced, high-scoring environment that emphasizes quick decision-making, precise ball handling, and aggressive play.
Benefits for Young Players
Box lacrosse accelerates skill development through increased touches, confined space play, and constant action. Players develop better stick skills, field vision, and physical toughness that directly translates to improved field lacrosse performance.
Why Choose Box Lacrosse?
Many of today's top college and professional players credit box lacrosse for their development. The indoor game teaches creativity, quick thinking, and advanced stick work that gives players a competitive edge on the field.
Game Format & Season
Games are normally played in four 15-minute periods with a 30-second shot clock. Our season runs during the winter months, providing year-round lacrosse development and keeping players sharp between field seasons.
How to Join Kougarz
From registration to competing on the floor
Register
Sign up for tryouts online and secure your spot.
Attend Tryouts
Show up ready to compete and show your skills to our coaching staff.
Team Placement
Get placed on a team suited to your age group and skill level.
Compete
Train and compete against top regional programs throughout the season.