CLL
Return of CLL Regional Combines
CLL is re-launching Regional Combines across the country for the Fall of 2025 and Winter of 2026. Each Regional Combine provides players with the opportunity to work closely with CLL staff in a controlled environment to showcase their skill, athleticism, and lacrosse IQ in preparation for the 2026 competition calendar.
Previously held on single days, Regional Combines have been expanded and each will be held over three (3) days. Regional Combines include; position specific coaches Chalk Talks to expand on Lacrosse IQ, Athletic Testing to provide players with benchmarks and rankings amongst players competing in their same age category, advanced Drills to improve situational awareness, and conclude with full-length and officiated Scrimmages under the IIJL Rule Book.
[PHOTO: Players completing athletic testing at 2022 Ontario Regional Combine.]
Since pausing Regional Combines three (3) years ago, CLL staff have identified a hole in player development. Specifically, players lacking Lacrosse IQ when trying to make the jump from Minor to Junior, Junior B to Junior A, or beyond. This conclusion is reinforced by the fact our Canada international program has never won Gold at the IIJL World U18 Lacrosse Championship.
"Players were the most success when our staff had the ability to work with them and introduce them to advance junior and professional strategies, prior to being named to a team." Said Chris Fox, CLL President.
Due to 'Association' interference, CLL paused Regional Combines three (3) years ago. "It was obvious what the 'Associations' were trying to accomplish" Fox added. "Instead of tying things up in litigation, we decided to pivot and assemble our rosters by invitation only—that's over."
[PHOTO: Players break during position specific drills at 2022 Saskatchewan Regional Combine.]
During Player Exit Interviews, players and parents overwhelmingly requested more coaching, training, and programming in the environment CLL has cultivated over the last decade.
In addition to identifying players for inclusion on the World Junior, World U18, and World U16 rosters Regional Combines are being used to select the IIJL Commonwealth Cup (February 23 - March 6, 2026 in Melbourne, VIC Australia) and inaugural IIJL North American Cup Series (August 7-9, 2026 in Peterborough, ON) CANDT rosters as well.
Lastly, to provide more opportunities for players who attend Regional Combines that may not be available to compete with CLL in August at IIJL championships a series of domestic tournaments, with dates and locations to be announced, have been added for those players and will take place in the Fall of 2026.