Program Feature: The Top Gun Fighting Clams: A Powerhouse in Massachusetts Lacrosse

Since its inception in 2000, the Top Gun Fighting Clams has established itself as one of the premier lacrosse programs in Massachusetts and New England. With a focus on player development, college recruitment, and competitive success, the Fighting Clams have become a cornerstone of the Massachusetts lacrosse scene.

A Legacy of Excellence

The Fighting Clams program has an impressive track record of developing talented players and helping them reach the next level. Over the past two decades, they have placed more than 800 players into over 100 collegiate lacrosse programs. This remarkable achievement speaks to the program’s commitment to nurturing talent and providing opportunities for young athletes to excel in the sport.

Program Structure

The Top Gun Fighting Clams organization is divided into two main branches:

Littlenecks

The Littlenecks serve as the youth development arm of the program. This elite youth club lacrosse program offers young athletes the opportunity to play highly competitive lacrosse year-round. The Littlenecks focus on:

• Participating in tournaments against top regional competition
• Year-round skills training
• Consultation with coaches from competitive high school programs
• Preparing young players for higher levels of lacrosse

As players approach high school age, the Littlenecks help them navigate the transition to high school lacrosse and potentially join the Fighting Clams program.

Fighting Clams

The Fighting Clams represent the high school level of the program. Featuring top players from the region’s most competitive high school programs, the Clams receive year-round instruction to improve their skills and prepare for college lacrosse. Key aspects of the Fighting Clams program include:

• Comprehensive recruiting services
• Guidance and “marketing” to college coaches
• Focus on player development and college placement

Unique Approach to Team Selection

One of the distinguishing features of the Top Gun Fighting Clams program is its fluid approach to team selection. Unlike many club programs that assign players to permanent “A” or “B” teams, the Clams use a more dynamic system

• Players are members of their respective class, not a specific team
• Every player is considered for AA and A placements when applicable
• Players have the opportunity to earn and defend their roster spots
• This approach allows the program to field top teams at prestigious events while giving a high percentage of athletes exposure to elite competition

Summer Tournament Schedule

The Fighting Clams participate in a variety of lacrosse tournaments throughout the summer Including these PrimeTime Events: 

• PrimeTime Shootout
• PrimeTime Bulldog Brawl
• PrimeTime Mid-Summer Classic
• PrimeTime National Invitational
• PrimeTime Brawlin’ at the Beach
• PrimeTime Vermont Lacrosse Classic

Impact on Massachusetts Lacrosse

The Top Gun Fighting Clams have made a significant impact on the Massachusetts lacrosse landscape:

1. Player Development: By providing high-level training and competition, the program has elevated the overall skill level of lacrosse players throughout the state.
2. College Recruitment: With their extensive network of college connections, the Fighting Clams have helped hundreds of Massachusetts athletes secure spots on collegiate rosters.
3. Competitive Success: The program’s success in national tournaments has put Massachusetts lacrosse on the map, showcasing the state’s talent on a broader stage.
4. Youth Development: Through the Littlenecks program, young players in Massachusetts have access to elite training and competition from an early age.

Conclusion

The Top Gun Fighting Clams have become an integral part of the Massachusetts lacrosse community, providing unparalleled opportunities for player development and college recruitment. Through their tiered tournament approach and commitment to excellence, the Fighting Clams continue to shape the future of lacrosse in the state and beyond. As the program evolves and grows, it remains a beacon for aspiring lacrosse players in Massachusetts, offering a path to success both on and off the field.