MAC Joining American Lacrosse Collective - FAQs

What is the American Lacrosse Collective (ALC)?

The American Lacrosse Collective is the organization bringing together a connected player development model. It isn’t a team. It provides the structure, coaching collaboration, and opportunities that connect players from state-level competition all the way to national exposure.

What is changing?

The Minnesota Athletic Club (MAC) is becoming part of the American Lacrosse Collective. Families will continue to know MAC, but players will now have access to a larger development network, expanded coaching resources, and additional opportunities.

 Is MAC going away?

No. MAC remains an important part of the American Lacrosse Collective. It will now serve as the East Metro State Team, providing elite opportunities for players throughout the eastern Twin Cities and surrounding communities.

 What is the benefit to my player?

Players can expect:

• High-level coaching from experienced staff.
• More competitive scrimmage opportunities.
• Team and position-specific training.
• A clear development pathway from the East Metro State Team to the Minnesota State Team to Team America.
• Opportunities to compete against top talent from around the region and across the country.
• Consistent coaching philosophies and player development throughout the Collective.

Will practices change?

MAC will continue operating as the East Metro State Team. Players selected to NLC or Team America will also have additional opportunities to participate in those programs throughout the year.

 Will costs increase?

No immediate changes are being announced. Participation in NLC or Team America will be separate opportunities and communicated independently.

Why is this good for Minnesota players?

·     This partnership creates something Minnesota has never truly had before.

·     Players can now develop within one connected system.

·     MAC provides an elite East Metro State Team experience.

Will MAC still feel like MAC?

Absolutely. The relationships, culture, and coaching philosophy that have made MAC successful aren’t changing. Joining the American Lacrosse Collective expands the opportunities available to our players while preserving the identity and traditions that families have come to know.

Will my son or daughter still wear a MAC uniform?

Yes. MAC will continue to compete as the Minnesota Athletic Club. Joining the American Lacrosse Collective expands the opportunities available to our players while preserving the MAC identity. Players selected to NLC or Team America will wear those uniforms only when representing those programs.

      Who will be leading MAC moving forward?

MAC will continue to be led by the people our families know and trust.

Jace Childs will continue serving as the Director of MAC and oversee the day-to-day operation of the program, including coaching, player development, communication, scheduling, and team operations.

Rich Limpert will remain actively involved as part of the American Lacrosse Collective leadership, helping guide the vision of the program, mentor coaches, assist with player development, and support the continued growth of MAC while serving as the Head Women’s Lacrosse Coach at Palm Beach Atlantic University.

For our families, that means the leadership and culture that have built MAC remain firmly in place while gaining the additional opportunities and resources that come with joining the American Lacrosse Collective.

Are coaches staying the same?

Yes. The coaching staff and leadership that have built MAC remain the foundation of the program. Families can expect the same culture and commitment while also benefiting from collaboration with coaches throughout the American Lacrosse Collective.

Where will MAC practice?

Our primary practice locations will include:

• M Health Green Fields
• M Health Fieldhouse
• Oltman Middle School’s new lacrosse fields

These facilities provide excellent outdoor and indoor training opportunities throughout the year.

What tournaments will MAC attend?

Our planned tournament schedule includes:

Fall

• Shadowlands

Summer

• Lake State Showdown
• TI Invitational
• Middle of the Map

Additional scrimmages and competitive opportunities may be added through the American Lacrosse Collective.

 What happens next?

Nothing changes immediately for current MAC families. Over the coming months we’ll share more information about:

Expanded training opportunities and additional events and experiences through the American Lacrosse Collective

  Is the American Lacrosse Collective a team?

No.

The American Lacrosse Collective (ALC) is the organization that connects the pathway and provides shared leadership, coaching standards, and player development.

The teams within the Collective are:

• MAC – East Metro State Team
• NLC – Minnesota State Team
• Team America – National Exposure Teams