What is the difference between MCLA teams and varsity (NCAA) teams?
Most MCLA teams are striving for a balance between a varsity experience and a traditional club lacrosse experience. The term “virtual varsity” has been used to describe this mix, although that term shouldn’t be used loosely. The only real differences between club and varsity lacrosse are official recognition as a varsity team by that school’s athletic department, which qualifies the team for NCAA competition, and the restrictions the NCAA has placed on the varsity recruiting process. Beyond that, the line becomes (very) fuzzy. Varsity teams run the range from fully funded, big-time programs like Johns Hopkins, Duke, Virginia, Maryland, and Syracuse that offer the maximum allotment of 12.6 scholarships, well-paid full-time coaches, and the support of a big-time athletic complex, to programs with part-time coaches, limited budgets, no scholarships and limited support. Some varsity teams even charge player dues or have the players fund raise to help offset costs, much like club teams. MCL
