Where can you find the best girls lacrosse camps in Princeton, NJ. How do these camps help young athletes improve their skills. What are the top programs offered in 2023. Which camps provide the most comprehensive training experience.
Top Girls Lacrosse Camps in Princeton for 2023
Princeton, New Jersey has long been a hub for lacrosse excellence, and its summer camps continue to attract aspiring young athletes from across the region. In 2023, several top-notch programs are offering girls the opportunity to hone their skills, learn from experienced coaches, and prepare for the upcoming season.
Princeton University Lacrosse Camps
Princeton University’s renowned lacrosse program hosts several camps throughout the summer, catering to different age groups and skill levels:
- Elite Camp: Designed for high school players entering 9th grade through college freshman
- Tiger Camp: Tailored for girls entering 7th through 11th grade
- Cub Camp: Perfect for younger players entering 4th through 8th grade
These camps offer intensive training sessions, focusing on individual skills, team strategies, and game situations. Participants benefit from instruction by Princeton’s coaching staff and current players, gaining invaluable insights into collegiate-level play.
HUN School Lacrosse Camps
The HUN School in Princeton offers multiple sessions throughout the summer, providing a comprehensive lacrosse experience:
- Session I: Typically held in June
- Session II: Usually scheduled for late July or early August
- Specialized Shooting/Goalie Clinic: Focused training for specific positions
These camps cater to a wide range of skill levels, from beginners to advanced players. The HUN School’s state-of-the-art facilities and experienced coaching staff create an ideal environment for player development.
Benefits of Attending Girls Lacrosse Camps
Participating in a summer lacrosse camp can significantly impact a young athlete’s development. Here are some key benefits:
- Skill Improvement: Intensive training sessions focus on fundamental techniques and advanced strategies.
- Expert Coaching: Learn from experienced college coaches and players.
- Competitive Environment: Play against and alongside other talented athletes.
- Team Building: Develop important social and communication skills.
- College Preparation: Gain insights into what it takes to play at the collegiate level.
Are summer camps worth the investment? For many young lacrosse players, these camps provide an unparalleled opportunity to elevate their game and gain exposure to high-level coaching and competition.
Specialized Training Programs in Princeton
Beyond general lacrosse camps, Princeton offers specialized training programs to help athletes focus on specific aspects of their game:
Goalie Camps
Goalie-specific camps provide targeted training for this crucial position. These programs focus on:
- Proper stance and positioning
- Save techniques for various shot types
- Communication and field awareness
- Mental preparation and game strategy
Shooting Clinics
For players looking to improve their scoring abilities, shooting clinics offer:
- Advanced shooting techniques
- Dodging and creating space
- Off-ball movement
- Shot selection and decision-making
How can specialized training benefit young athletes? By focusing on specific skills, players can make significant improvements in areas that may be overlooked in general team practices.
Preparing for Princeton Lacrosse Camps
To make the most of your summer lacrosse camp experience, proper preparation is key. Here are some tips to help you get ready:
- Condition before camp: Start a fitness routine weeks in advance to build endurance.
- Practice stick skills: Spend time wall ball training to improve your catching and throwing.
- Review camp schedules: Familiarize yourself with the daily routine and what to expect.
- Pack appropriately: Bring all necessary equipment, including backup sticks and plenty of water.
- Set personal goals: Identify specific areas you want to improve during the camp.
Is there anything specific you should focus on before attending a lacrosse camp? While general fitness and stick skills are important, it’s also beneficial to work on any weak areas in your game that you hope to address during the camp.
The Impact of Princeton’s Lacrosse Legacy
Princeton’s rich lacrosse history adds a unique dimension to its summer camps. The university’s program has produced numerous All-Americans and professional players, and this legacy is evident in the quality of instruction provided at the camps.
Campers often have the opportunity to learn from current and former Princeton players, gaining insights into:
- The Princeton offense: A systematic approach that has influenced lacrosse strategy nationwide
- Defensive techniques: Learning the fundamentals of individual and team defense
- Mental preparation: Understanding the psychological aspects of high-level competition
- College recruitment: Gaining valuable advice on the college lacrosse recruitment process
How does Princeton’s lacrosse tradition enhance the camp experience? The program’s storied history creates an inspiring atmosphere that motivates young players to strive for excellence, both on and off the field.
Choosing the Right Camp for Your Skill Level
With multiple options available, selecting the right lacrosse camp is crucial for maximizing your development. Consider the following factors when making your decision:
- Age and skill level: Ensure the camp is appropriate for your current abilities.
- Camp focus: Determine if you need general skill development or specialized training.
- Duration: Choose between day camps or overnight experiences based on your preferences.
- Coaching staff: Research the qualifications and experience of the camp instructors.
- Facilities: Consider the quality of the training facilities and equipment available.
Should you opt for a more challenging camp or one that matches your current skill level? While pushing yourself can lead to growth, it’s important to find a balance where you can learn and improve without feeling overwhelmed.
Beyond the Field: Life Skills Learned at Lacrosse Camps
Lacrosse camps offer more than just athletic training. They provide a unique environment for personal growth and development of important life skills:
- Leadership: Many camps incorporate leadership training and team-building exercises.
- Time management: Balancing a full schedule of activities helps develop organizational skills.
- Resilience: Overcoming challenges on the field builds mental toughness.
- Communication: Working with new teammates and coaches improves interpersonal skills.
- Goal setting: Learning to set and work towards achievable objectives.
How do these life skills translate beyond the lacrosse field? The lessons learned at camp can have a lasting impact on academic performance, future career success, and personal relationships.
Nutrition and Recovery at Lacrosse Camps
Proper nutrition and recovery are crucial components of a successful lacrosse camp experience. Many Princeton-area camps place a strong emphasis on these aspects, providing education and resources to help athletes perform at their best:
Nutrition Tips for Campers
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after training sessions.
- Eat balanced meals: Focus on a mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats.
- Snack smart: Choose nutrient-dense snacks to maintain energy levels throughout the day.
- Timing matters: Learn about pre- and post-workout nutrition for optimal performance.
Recovery Strategies
- Proper cool-down routines: Importance of stretching and gradual activity reduction
- Sleep hygiene: Understanding the role of adequate rest in athletic performance
- Active recovery: Engaging in low-intensity activities on rest days
- Injury prevention: Learning proper techniques to minimize the risk of injuries
Why is nutrition and recovery education important for young athletes? By instilling good habits early, camps help players develop a holistic approach to their athletic careers, promoting long-term health and success.
Technology Integration in Modern Lacrosse Camps
As technology continues to advance, many Princeton lacrosse camps are incorporating innovative tools to enhance player development:
- Video analysis: Using slow-motion replay to break down and improve techniques
- Performance tracking: Utilizing wearable devices to monitor player metrics
- Virtual reality training: Simulating game situations for decision-making practice
- Online resources: Providing campers with digital playbooks and drills for continued learning
How does technology enhance the lacrosse camp experience? These tools allow for more personalized instruction, data-driven improvement, and engaging learning experiences that appeal to tech-savvy young athletes.
Building Lasting Connections at Lacrosse Camps
One of the often-overlooked benefits of attending a lacrosse camp is the opportunity to build lasting connections with fellow players and coaches. These relationships can have a significant impact on a young athlete’s development and future opportunities:
Networking Benefits
- Meeting players from different regions and backgrounds
- Forming friendships that can last throughout high school and college careers
- Connecting with college coaches and gaining insights into recruitment processes
- Learning about different playing styles and strategies from diverse perspectives
Long-Term Impact
- Potential for future team tryout opportunities
- Access to a broader lacrosse community for support and advice
- Increased confidence in social situations within the sport
- Exposure to different college programs and potential career paths in lacrosse
How can young athletes make the most of networking opportunities at lacrosse camps? Encourage campers to be proactive in introducing themselves, participating in group activities, and staying in touch with new connections after the camp concludes.
Evaluating Your Progress After Camp
As the summer lacrosse camp experience comes to an end, it’s important for players to reflect on their progress and set goals for the future. Here are some strategies for evaluating your development:
- Self-assessment: Compare your skills and knowledge pre- and post-camp
- Coach feedback: Review any evaluations or comments provided by camp instructors
- Performance metrics: Analyze any statistical improvements in your game
- Peer comparisons: Reflect on how you performed relative to other campers
- Goal review: Assess whether you achieved the personal objectives you set before camp
What should you do with this evaluation? Use the insights gained to create a personalized training plan for the off-season, focusing on areas that still need improvement while building on your newfound strengths.
Transitioning Camp Skills to Regular Season Play
The true test of a successful lacrosse camp experience is how well the skills and knowledge gained translate to regular season play. Here are some tips for making a smooth transition:
- Practice consistency: Maintain the intensity and focus you had during camp in your regular training
- Implement new techniques: Gradually incorporate the new skills you learned into your gameplay
- Share knowledge: Bring camp drills and strategies back to your school or club team
- Mental preparation: Apply the psychological tools and strategies learned at camp to game situations
- Seek feedback: Continue to communicate with coaches about your progress and areas for improvement
How can coaches and parents support this transition? Encourage open communication about the camp experience and provide opportunities for players to demonstrate and share their new skills with teammates.
Future Trends in Girls Lacrosse Camps
As the sport of lacrosse continues to evolve, so too do the summer camp programs. Looking ahead, we can anticipate several trends that may shape the future of girls lacrosse camps in Princeton and beyond:
- Increased specialization: More camps focusing on specific positions or skills
- Year-round programming: Extended off-season training opportunities
- Virtual coaching: Integration of remote learning and online mentorship
- Cross-training emphasis: Incorporating elements from other sports for overall athleticism
- Mental health focus: Greater attention to psychological well-being and stress management
How might these trends impact the development of young lacrosse players? By offering more diverse and comprehensive training options, future camps may provide even more tailored experiences to meet the evolving needs of athletes in an increasingly competitive sport.
As we look forward to the 2023 summer lacrosse season in Princeton, it’s clear that the array of camps and clinics available offer exceptional opportunities for young athletes to improve their skills, make lasting connections, and prepare for success both on and off the field. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn the fundamentals or an advanced player aiming to refine your technique, Princeton’s lacrosse camps provide the perfect environment for growth and development in this exciting sport.
Camps & Clinics – RV GIRLS LACROSSE
Camps & Clinics |
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Sports Camps – Summer Programs in Princeton
Field Hockey Camp
Dates: Aug.
7 – 10th
Time: 9:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Hun Summer Field Hockey Camp is a place to learn the game, love the game, and grow the game. Whether you are just starting out, or you are looking to take your game to the next level, this camp will help you build your individual, tactical, and team skills to be the best player and teammate you can be. Open to girls and boys grades 5th through 9th, each day will consist of both skill work and small team play that will be fast-paced and fun so you get maximum touches on the ball and confidence with each day. The camp will also focus on goal setting and leadership development as we look to be our best both on and off the field.
register
- Coaching Staff
- Camp Highlights
- Tuition
Tracey Larson Arndt is a Pennsbury HS and Penn State Alumni. As a former student of Penn State University, Tracey was an All-American, Academic All-American, Big 10 Freshman of the Year (1996), and Big 10 Player of the Year (1999).
She made her international senior debut for the Women’s National Team in 1999. She was a member of the team that won the silver medal at the 2003 Pan American Games as well as a member of the 2002 World Cup team. Her coaching experience includes Varsity Coaching at both Pennsbury HS and Princeton Day School, where she led both teams to state tournament berths. Currently, she is a USA Level 2 coach and a Level 1 instructor as well as the head field hockey coach and Co-Director of Athletics at the Hun School.
- Lunch included
- Individualized instruction
- Low camper-instructor ratio
- Quality teaching of basic skills for beginners and advanced players
- Competitive games
- Competition prizes
Lunch is included in the cost of camp, which is $240 for the week.
Girls’ Basketball Camp
Dates: June 26 – 29th
Times: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Run by Head Varsity Girls’ Basketball Coach Sean Costello, this camp is open to girls in grades 4th through 8th and provides quality instruction and individual attention.
Fundamentals are emphasized in the morning during skill sessions followed by games and tournaments during afternoon play. A talented staff of current and former coaches, alumni, and current students assist at the camp. Lunch is included. Email Coach Sean Costello with any questions.
register
- Daily Schedule
- Coaching Staff
- Camp Highlights
- Tuition
9:00 a.m. – Group instruction, individual position skills, drills
11:30 a.m. – Lunch
12:15 p.m. – Position work and team defense
12:45 p.m. – Pre-game warm up
1:00 – Games and competitions
2:30 p.m. – Wrap up, awards, motivational address
3:00 p.m. – Dismissal
Sean Costello serves as Co-Director of Athletics at The Hun School. Mr. Costello collaborates with Tracey Arndt in leading the Athletic Program for Middle and Upper School students, and serves as head coach for girls’ varsity basketball.
Mr. Costello previously served as associate director of athletics at the Shipley School and as general manager of Maplezone Sports Institute in Aston, Pennsylvania.
- Individualized instruction
- Low Camper-instructor ratio
- Quality Teaching of basic Skills for beginners and advanced players
- Competitive Games
- Competition Prizes
Tuition for Basketball Camp is $240 for the four days, and includes lunch.
Boys’ Basketball Camp
Week 1: Aug. 7 – 11th
Week 2: Aug. 14 – 18th
Times: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Run by Head Varsity Boys’ Basketball Coach Jonathan Stone, this camp is open to boys between grades 4th through 9th and provides quality instruction and individual attention. Fundamentals are emphasized in the morning during skill sessions followed by games and tournaments during afternoon play. A talented staff of current and former coaches, alumni, and current students assist at the camp.
Lunch is included. Email Coach Jonathan Stone with any questions.
register
- Daily Schedule
- Coaching Staff
- Camp Highlights
- Tuition
9:00 a.m. – Group instruction, individual position skills, drills
11:30 a.m. – Lunch
12:15 p.m. – Position work and team defense
12:45 p.m. – Pre-game warm up
1:00 – Games and competitions
2:30 p.m. – Wrap up, awards, motivational address
3:00 p.m. – Dismissal
Jonathan Stone, currently the director of Resident Life at The Hun School, has also served as the head boys’ basketball coach since the fall of 2000. Before arriving at The Hun School, Jon spent two years at the University of Rochester as assistant coach and five years as a professional basketball player in Europe. Jon also spent a year with the Harlem Globetrotters organization as a member of their regular opponent, the Washington Generals.
Jon attended Colgate University, Class of 1992. During his career he was a two-year captain, three-time MVP, two-time Most Improved Player, and still holds the single game scoring record of 52 points.
- Individualized instruction
- Low Camper-instructor ratio
- Quality Teaching of basic Skills for beginners and advanced players
- Competitive Games
- Competition Prizes
Tuition for Basketball Camp is $299 for one week, and includes instruction, a T-shirt, and lunch. Tuition is $575 if you sign up for both weeks.
Request Informationregister
Partner Camps
Alumni Baseball Camp
July 24 – 28
JULY 31 – August 4
Alumni Baseball Camp is open to boys and girls between the ages of 8 and 15. Campers can choose to attend either week. It is a comprehensive skills camp, which focuses on baseball fundamentals, conditioning, and sportsmanship. A talented and knowledgeable group of instructors, composed of alumni and current players, will run the camp alongside Varsity Baseball Head Coach Tom Monfiletto.
Campers will enhance their baseball skills and knowledge of each aspect of the game. Lunch is included. Email Coach Tom Monfiletto with any questions.
Register for Alumni Baseball Camp
- Daily Schedule
- Coaching Staff
- Camp Highlights
9:00 a.m. – Group instruction, individual position skills, drills
11:30 a.m. – Lunch
12:15 p.m. – Position work and team defense
12:45 p.m. – Pre-game warm-up
1:00 p.m. – Games and competitions
2:30 p.m. – Wrap-up, daily awards, motivational address
3:00 p.m. – Dismissal
Tom Monfiletto ’04, camp co-director, is the varsity baseball coach at The Hun School and works in the School’s communications and marketing department. As a Hun student, he earned All-Prep and All-MAPL honors for baseball and football. He is a graduate of Hamilton College where he was the captain of the varsity baseball and football teams.
Tom plans and oversees all aspects of the camp and instruction.
Brian Scanlon ’06, camp co-director, is the owner of a digital marketing company known as Posted Social and also is the CEO/Founder of The Recruiting Coaches which provides custom advice and hands-on guidance to families navigating the college baseball recruiting process. Brian earned first team All-MAPL and All-Prep honors as a catcher at The Hun School and went on to play at Babson College where he became captain his senior year. Brian served as assistant coach and recruiting coordinator for Babson from 2010-2014. Brian helps plan and oversee daily camp operations and works with catchers and infielders.
Steve Garrison ’05, instructor, serves as the varsity pitching coach for The Hun School and is Associate Director of Admission. After earning 2005 NJ Player of the Year honors, Steve was drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers in the 10th round of that summer’s MLB draft. Steve enjoyed an 11-year professional career which included a stint in the big leagues with the New York Yankees.
Steve works with pitchers.
Mike Russo ’08, instructor, is the pitching coach at Princeton University. After an All-MAPL and All-Prep campaign, the Philadelphia Phillies drafted Mike in the summer of 2008. Mike attended NC State for two years before transferring to Kean University where he became the 2011 NJAC Pitcher of the Year. Mike also garnered second-team All-America honors, posting a 10-2 record with a 1.93 ERA. Mike finished his career at Kean with a 17-3 record. Mike works with pitchers and outfielders.
Pat Jones, instructor, assistant varsity baseball coach, and math teacher at The Hun School, has been with the camp since its inception. Pat is the Nottinghame Elite’s Travel Program Instructor as well as their 10U head coach. He also serves as executive board member of the Redbird Baseball and Softball League. Pat played baseball and football at Juniata College. He works with catchers and outfielders.
- Individualized instruction
- Fundamental skills stations
- Games, including Hun Camp World Series
- Daily Awards
Red Zone Football Academy
July 10 – 14
Primarily for middle school aged athletes, the Red Zone Football Academy is the most complete football skills camp in the state of NJ.
This camp will focus on complete youth athlete development. Led by some of the best coaches in NJ, as well as collegiate and high school standouts, this camp is ideal for campers between the ages of 9-14 of all ability and skill levels. Email Coach Todd Smith with any questions.
See more information about registering.
Arsenal Soccer Camp
JULY 17 – JULY 21
Premier league giants Arsenal FC will be running a one-week soccer camp at The Hun School. Designed for boys and girls of all abilities ages 7 – 14 the camp gives young players access to official Arsenal coaches and the same successful training methods used at the Arsenal academy in London. Training sessions have been designed for players to improve the fundamental techniques of soccer with repetition and at match tempo. Players will be given a complete perspective on soccer tactics to understand each role and position and how they are related. All in a fun and supportive environment.
See more information about registering.
