The number of teams varies each year based on the number of participants and the distribution of skills. Typically, we aim to form multiple teams at each grade level to ensure that all players are placed appropriately according to their skill level and developmental needs. There will be 1 Academy Team per grad year, 2 Pre-Academy U12 Teams, and select teams as needed. 

We understand that players may have other commitments. We encourage a full-year commitment to ensure maximum development and team synergy; however, we can accommodate partial-year participation on a case-by-case basis, depending on the circumstances and team needs. 

T1 teams are comprised of players from various towns across the region. We pride ourselves on drawing talented athletes from a wide geographic area, fostering a diverse and dynamic team environment.  

Academy – State Team  
North – Northern Chicago Suburbs (Winnetka, Lake Forest, Glenview and more!)  
West - Western Chicago Suburbs (Naperville, Lisle, Downers Grove and more!)  
Tri-CIty – St. Charles, Batavia, Geneva, South Elgin and surrounding towns  

Movement between programs is based on player development and readiness, evaluated through continuous assessments and performance in matches. Roster space is also a determining factor. 

To determine the best team for your child, we consider their performance during tryouts, ongoing skill assessments, and our observations of their understanding of the game and commitment level. Our coaches are dedicated to placing each player in an environment where they can excel and continue developing their skills. We encourage you to discuss your child’s developmental goals and any previous evaluations with our coaching staff, who can provide personalized advice on the most appropriate team placement for your child. 

Player evaluations are conducted twice a year, in winter and summer, using a standardized assessment developed in accordance with USA Lacrosse’s LADM Curriculum. This approach allows us to evaluate players against a national standard, rather than solely in comparison to current teammates, ensuring fairness and objective growth tracking.

In our Academy programs, playing time is determined by coaches based on tournament dynamics and team goals and is not guaranteed. In our Select programs, we strive to balance competitive play with equal playing time, ensuring that all players can participate and develop during tournaments.

For tournaments outside our region, Team ONE reserves hotel blocks in advance for all teams. This ensures that accommodations are managed efficiently and reduces the logistical burden on individual players and their families.

Joining a Team ONE club team involves several costs, including dues, uniform fees, personal travel expenses, and additional costs for special events or extra training sessions. These are outlined at the start of the season to ensure transparency.

High School Academy players receive a Sports Recruits profile, which includes recruiting guidance and one highlight film. Our Academy Director provides direct support and guidance to athletes wishing to continue their lacrosse careers at the collegiate level.

We support and encourage our athletes to be multisport participants. However, this can affect roster planning, so we ask to be informed in advance about any potential conflicts to accommodate and plan accordingly.

At Team ONE, player safety is a priority that extends beyond physical health to include mental health and burnout prevention. Our coaching staff is trained to foster a positive sports environment, and we engage parents to join our mission in creating a safe and educational space for learning and playing lacrosse.