Faith Renner, Founder of Just Play Lax
In New Jersey, lacrosse is more than a sport—it’s a legacy. In Texas, it's still finding its roots. Faith Renner has lived in both worlds. After playing collegiately at Virginia Tech and Rutgers, she moved to Dallas and found herself coaching in a completely different environment—one where kids were still learning what lacrosse even is.
Rather than trying to replicate the hyper-competitive pipeline she knew, Faith pivoted. She, along with a friend and local lacrosse parent, founded Just Play Lax—a grassroots program focused on inclusion, fun, and confidence-building for kids K–12. What started as a few local clinics has grown into a community-driven movement offering 6v6 tournaments, rec-league play, and even events with lacrosse legends like Charlotte North and Kyle Harrison.
“There’s so much pressure in youth sports,” Faith said. “But what kids really want is to have fun, feel connected, and touch the ball. That’s where confidence grows.”
Growing the Game the Right Way
Faith’s philosophy is simple and powerful:
No fear of mistakes
No drama or politics
No gatekeeping
Kids show up, they play, they try, and they grow. Whether it's their first time holding a stick or they’re a D1 commit, everyone’s welcome.
Even in the height of the pandemic, Just Play provided an outlet. “That year taught me everything,” Faith said. “These kids needed connection. They needed joy. They needed each other.”
Real Coaching, Real Impact
Faith’s sessions are fast, fun, and rooted in reality. One of her favorite coaching cues: “If the ball flies out of your stick, just keep going.” It sounds simple, but it’s a powerful shift. Instead of stopping to recover mistakes, kids learn to adapt, problem-solve, and stay in motion.
“Every coach should know what they’re about,” she added. “Pick your two or three values and say them every practice, every email, every huddle. The kids pick it up. It sticks.”
What’s Next
Faith isn’t trying to build an empire. She’s building access. Just Play will continue to offer small-sided events, low-cost entry points, and teams for her two daughters as they grow into the game.
Her advice to others trying to grow lacrosse in new markets? “Start with your community. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Know who you are, and stick to it when things get hard.”
Because it’s not about building stars. It’s about building belonging.
Let’s Grow Together
At Signature, we’re proud to highlight leaders like Faith who are keeping lacrosse what it should be—fun, challenging, and accessible. To learn more about Just Play Lax or start something similar in your area, follow her journey and keep the conversation going.
