How can you maximize your chances of getting recruited for college lacrosse. What are the most effective strategies for catching coaches’ attention. Which tools and resources should you utilize in your recruiting journey. How important is early outreach in the lacrosse recruiting process. Why are lacrosse camps and showcases crucial for aspiring college players.
Leveraging Lacrosse Recruiting Websites for Maximum Exposure
In the competitive world of college lacrosse recruiting, visibility is key. Lacrosse recruiting websites offer a powerful platform for aspiring players to showcase their talents and connect with college coaches nationwide. Sites like BeRecruited, NCSA, and CaptainU allow athletes to create comprehensive player profiles, making it easier for coaches to discover and evaluate potential recruits.
To make the most of these platforms:
- Create detailed profiles with up-to-date stats, honors, and video highlights
- Start building your online presence as early as freshman year
- Regularly update your information to reflect your latest achievements
- Study team rosters and depth charts to identify potential opportunities
- Engage with lacrosse communities through blogs, forums, and social media
How early should you start your online recruiting presence? Ideally, begin creating profiles and engaging with the lacrosse community as soon as you enter high school. This early start gives you ample time to build a comprehensive digital footprint and increases your chances of catching coaches’ attention throughout your high school career.
Crafting an Attention-Grabbing Recruiting Profile
Your recruiting profile is often a coach’s first impression of you as a player and person. To make it stand out:
- Tailor your profile to highlight strengths that align with team needs
- Emphasize specific skills that fit different playing styles (e.g., athleticism for uptempo teams, lacrosse IQ for methodical strategies)
- Include clear, concise information about your academic achievements
- Regularly update your profile with new accomplishments and improved stats
- Enable notifications to respond promptly to coach inquiries
How can you make your profile unique? Focus on showcasing your personality and passion for the sport alongside your athletic achievements. Share anecdotes about your lacrosse journey, leadership experiences, or community involvement to give coaches a well-rounded view of who you are both on and off the field.
Maximizing Exposure Through Lacrosse Camps and Showcases
Attending lacrosse camps and showcases is crucial for gaining exposure and improving your skills. These events provide invaluable opportunities to:
- Perform in front of college coaches
- Compete against top talent from across the country
- Demonstrate your skills, work ethic, and coachability
- Learn from experienced coaches and players
- Network with other aspiring college athletes
Which types of events should you prioritize? Focus on camps hosted by colleges you’re interested in attending, as these give you direct exposure to the coaching staff. Additionally, participate in well-respected showcases that attract multiple college coaches, maximizing your visibility to a broader range of programs.
Establishing Early Connections with College Coaches
Proactive communication with college coaches can significantly boost your recruiting prospects. To effectively connect with coaches:
- Send introductory emails detailing your interests, academic achievements, and lacrosse goals
- Follow up with phone calls to discuss team fit and program culture
- Share game film, tournament invitations, and campus visit plans
- Maintain consistent, respectful communication throughout your high school career
When is the best time to start reaching out to coaches? Begin making initial contact during your sophomore year of high school. This early outreach demonstrates your genuine interest and allows you to build relationships over time. Remember to respect NCAA recruiting rules and timelines, which may limit when coaches can respond to you directly.
Creating a Compelling Skills Video for Coaches
A well-crafted skills video can be a powerful tool in your recruiting arsenal. To create an effective video:
- Start with clips showcasing overall athleticism (sprinting, agility, vertical leap)
- Include position-specific skills (e.g., shooting for attackers, footwork for defenders)
- Keep individual clips brief and ensure good lighting and camera angles
- Use professional editing and upbeat music to enhance presentation
- Highlight your versatility and lacrosse IQ through various game situations
How long should your skills video be? Aim for a total runtime of 3-5 minutes. This length is sufficient to showcase your abilities without overwhelming coaches who may be reviewing numerous videos. Be sure to put your best clips at the beginning to grab attention quickly.
Developing a Comprehensive Recruiting Resume
A well-organized recruiting resume serves as a quick reference for coaches, summarizing your lacrosse career and academic achievements. Include:
- Personal information and contact details
- Academic information (GPA, test scores, intended major)
- Lacrosse experience (positions played, stats, team accomplishments)
- Individual honors and awards
- Leadership roles and extracurricular activities
- References from coaches or mentors
How often should you update your recruiting resume? Review and update your resume at least once per season, adding new achievements, improved stats, and any changes in your academic standing. This ensures that coaches always have the most current information about your progress and accomplishments.
Navigating the Academic Side of Lacrosse Recruiting
While athletic ability is crucial, academic performance plays a significant role in the recruiting process. To position yourself as a well-rounded candidate:
- Maintain a strong GPA throughout high school
- Take challenging courses that demonstrate your academic potential
- Prepare for and take standardized tests (SAT/ACT) early
- Research academic requirements for your target schools
- Consider how your intended major aligns with lacrosse commitments
Why is academic performance so important in lacrosse recruiting? Many college lacrosse programs, especially at the Division III level, place a high value on academic achievements. Strong grades and test scores can open doors to academic scholarships and increase your appeal to coaches looking for student-athletes who can excel both on the field and in the classroom.
Understanding NCAA Eligibility Requirements
Familiarize yourself with NCAA eligibility rules to ensure you’re on track to compete at the college level:
- Complete required core courses
- Achieve minimum GPA in core courses
- Meet SAT/ACT score requirements
- Register with the NCAA Eligibility Center
How early should you start thinking about NCAA eligibility? Begin planning your academic path as a freshman to ensure you meet all requirements by the time you graduate. Regular check-ins with your guidance counselor can help you stay on track and address any potential issues early in your high school career.
Utilizing Social Media in Your Lacrosse Recruiting Journey
Social media can be a powerful tool for lacrosse recruiting when used strategically. To leverage social platforms effectively:
- Create professional, lacrosse-focused accounts on platforms like Twitter and Instagram
- Share highlights, training videos, and updates on your lacrosse journey
- Follow and engage with college lacrosse programs and coaches
- Demonstrate good sportsmanship and positive attitude in your posts
- Use relevant hashtags to increase visibility in the lacrosse community
How can you use social media to stand out to coaches? Share content that goes beyond your on-field performance. Post about your academic achievements, community service, and leadership experiences to present a well-rounded image. Remember to maintain a professional demeanor in all your online interactions, as coaches often use social media to gauge a recruit’s character and maturity.
Avoiding Common Social Media Pitfalls
While social media can boost your recruiting profile, it can also harm your prospects if not used responsibly. Be mindful of:
- Avoiding controversial or inappropriate content
- Maintaining privacy settings on personal accounts
- Being cautious about sharing personal information online
- Considering the long-term impact of your posts
What should you do if you’ve made social media mistakes in the past? If you’ve posted something inappropriate, remove it immediately. If necessary, address the issue proactively with coaches, demonstrating maturity and growth. Moving forward, be extra vigilant about your online presence to rebuild trust and showcase your best self.
Developing Key Skills to Enhance Your Recruitability
While natural talent is important, coaches also look for players who demonstrate continuous improvement and a strong work ethic. To enhance your recruitability:
- Focus on improving your weaknesses
- Develop versatility by practicing multiple positions
- Enhance your lacrosse IQ through film study and tactical discussions
- Improve your physical conditioning and strength
- Seek feedback from coaches and implement their suggestions
Which skills should you prioritize in your development? While position-specific skills are crucial, don’t neglect fundamental abilities like stick skills, footwork, and game awareness. These foundational elements are valued across all positions and can set you apart from other recruits.
The Importance of Mental Toughness in Recruiting
College coaches often emphasize the importance of mental toughness in their recruits. To demonstrate this quality:
- Show resilience in the face of challenges or setbacks
- Maintain a positive attitude during difficult games or practices
- Demonstrate leadership skills both on and off the field
- Exhibit coachability and a willingness to learn
- Display good sportsmanship in all situations
How can you develop mental toughness? Seek out challenging situations in your lacrosse career, such as playing up an age group or taking on a leadership role. Embrace these opportunities to grow and demonstrate your ability to perform under pressure.
Navigating the Financial Aspects of Lacrosse Recruiting
Understanding the financial implications of playing college lacrosse is crucial for both athletes and their families. Consider the following:
- Research scholarship opportunities at different NCAA divisions
- Understand the difference between athletic and academic scholarships
- Explore financial aid options at your target schools
- Consider the long-term value of education vs. athletic opportunities
- Be prepared to discuss financial needs with coaches during the recruiting process
Are athletic scholarships available for lacrosse? While full-ride athletic scholarships are rare in lacrosse, many programs offer partial scholarships. Division I and II schools can offer athletic scholarships, while Division III schools provide academic scholarships and need-based aid. Understanding these distinctions can help you make informed decisions about your college options.
Balancing Athletic and Academic Scholarship Opportunities
For many lacrosse recruits, a combination of athletic and academic scholarships provides the best financial package. To maximize your opportunities:
- Maintain high academic standards throughout high school
- Research schools that offer strong academic programs in your area of interest
- Consider how your academic achievements might supplement athletic scholarship offers
- Explore merit-based scholarships at schools where you’re being recruited
How can you effectively communicate your scholarship needs to coaches? Be honest and upfront about your financial situation during the recruiting process. Provide coaches with information about your academic achievements and any merit-based scholarships you’ve earned, as this can influence their ability to offer athletic aid.
Making the Most of Campus Visits and Unofficial Visits
Campus visits play a crucial role in the lacrosse recruiting process, offering insights that can’t be gained through online research alone. To maximize these opportunities:
- Prepare a list of questions about the lacrosse program, academics, and campus life
- Observe team practices or games if possible
- Meet with current players to get their perspective on the program
- Tour academic facilities and meet with professors in your intended major
- Explore the campus and surrounding area to gauge overall fit
When should you start making campus visits? Begin with unofficial visits during your sophomore or junior year. These self-funded trips allow you to explore schools early in the recruiting process. Official visits, typically reserved for seniors, are paid for by the school and often indicate serious interest from the program.
Evaluating Team Culture and Fit
Beyond facilities and playing time, assessing how well you’ll fit into a team’s culture is crucial. During visits:
- Observe team dynamics during practices or games
- Ask current players about team traditions and values
- Discuss coaching philosophy and expectations with the staff
- Consider how the team’s style of play aligns with your strengths
How can you determine if a team’s culture is right for you? Trust your instincts and be honest with yourself about what you observe. Consider whether you can see yourself thriving in the environment, both as a player and a person. Remember, you’ll be spending a significant amount of time with your teammates, so finding a good cultural fit is essential for your overall college experience.
Understanding the Recruiting Timeline and Key Milestones
The lacrosse recruiting process follows a general timeline, with key milestones and deadlines throughout your high school career. Familiarize yourself with:
- NCAA contact periods and dead periods
- Typical timelines for verbal commitments in lacrosse
- Application deadlines for your target schools
- Signing periods for National Letters of Intent (NLI)
- Academic eligibility checkpoints throughout high school
When do most lacrosse players commit to colleges? While timelines can vary, many lacrosse players make verbal commitments during their junior year of high school. However, the landscape is changing, with some high-profile recruits committing earlier. It’s essential to balance the desire for early commitment with the need to make a well-informed decision.
Adapting to Changes in the Recruiting Landscape
The lacrosse recruiting landscape is evolving, with recent changes affecting how and when players can be recruited. Stay informed about:
- New NCAA rules regarding early recruiting
- Trends in commitment timelines for your graduation year
- The impact of transfer portal activity on recruiting
- Changes in scholarship allocation across different divisions
How can you stay up-to-date with recruiting changes? Follow reputable lacrosse news sources, attend informational sessions at showcases or clinics, and maintain open communication with your high school or club coaches. Being well-informed allows you to navigate the recruiting process more effectively and make decisions that align with current trends and regulations.
As you embark on your lacrosse recruiting journey, remember that persistence, preparation, and passion are key to success. By leveraging these tips and strategies, you can increase your visibility to college coaches and position yourself as a desirable recruit. Stay focused on your goals, continue to develop your skills both on and off the field, and remain open to opportunities that arise throughout the process. With dedication and the right approach, you can turn your dream of playing college lacrosse into a reality.
Research Lacrosse Recruiting Websites for Exposure
Getting recruited to play lacrosse in college is no easy feat. With only a handful of roster spots available across hundreds of teams, competition is fierce. As a lacrosse player with dreams of suiting up at the next level, you need exposure and connections. The best place to start? Lacrosse recruiting websites.
Sites like BeRecruited, NCSA, and CaptainU allow you to create detailed player profiles viewable by college coaches across the country. Upload your stats, honors, video highlights, and contact info to get on recruiters’ radars early. Don’t wait – build your profile as soon as freshman year to maximize opportunities.
Surfing team websites directly gives insights too. Study rosters to see what types of athletes coaches gravitate toward. Analyze depth charts to find spots that need filling. Learn recruiting timelines and contact policies. Knowledge is power in navigating the recruiting landscape.
Expanding your web presence via lacrosse blogs, forums, and social media also helps. Follow college teams, share training tips, or post footage of your plays. Positivity, passion, and personality let your lacrosse brand shine through. Just make sure your digital footprint reflects your best self.
Create a Recruiting Profile to Get Noticed
Once you’ve identified target programs, prioritize creating profiles on their recruiting sites or databases. This lets coaches learn about you on their terms. Syncing calendars makes contacting you easier too.
Personalize each profile by highlighting strengths that fit team needs or schemes. Tout athleticism for uptempo squads. Emphasize lacrosse IQ for more methodical styles. Find strategic ways to stand out from the crowd.
Profiles also enable direct outreach from coaches. Adjust notification settings so you see messages immediately. Quick replies show responsiveness coveted at the next level. And ask savvy questions to spur fruitful dialogue.
Attend Lacrosse Camps and Showcases
Camps hosted by colleges you’re interested in should be recruiting priorities. Coaches get up close looks at your skills against top competition – take full advantage.
Showcases are essential too. Travelling for out-of-state tournaments displays dedication. Logistically demanding, but mass recruiting exposure compensates.
Regardless the event, bring “A game” effort. Hustling, coachability, and good body language can impact impressions as much as raw talent. Stay cool under pressure. Compete with passion. Make the most of face time with evaluators.
Connect with College Coaches Early
Initiating contact as an underclassman maximizes recruiting returns. Intro emails detailing interests, academics, and goals get your name on coaches’ radars.
Follow-up calls keep you top of mind. Discuss team fit, program culture, or winning vision. Avoid hard sells – build relationships. Coaches want players who’ll enhance team chemistry.
Game film, tournament invites, and campus visits should follow. Dialogue laying groundwork early makes each more impactful. Patience and persistence pay off.
Make a Skills Video for Coaches
Game footage showcases talents in live action, but crafted highlights better display lacrosse credentials. Creating a skills video is worth the effort.
Show overall athleticism first – sprinting, change of direction, and vertical leaping. Move into specialized skills next. For attackers, feature shooting arsenal and stick tricks. Middies, highlight transition speed, dodging moves, and two-way play. For defenders, demonstrable footwork, positioning, and communication.
Keep clips brief, well-lit, and professionally edited. Set highlights to upbeat music that pumps up your plays. Let your tape tell your lacrosse story.
Have a Recruiting Resume Ready
Stats, accolades, and experiences should be organized on a master resume. When coaches inquire about your lacrosse background, send it over immediately.
List vital details like positions played, jersey numbers, year-by-year stat lines, team accomplishments, individual honors, and leadership roles. Academic, community service, and work achievements matter too.
Keep your resume updated regularly. Add tournament all-star nods, new team records, or improved grades as they occur. Accuracy and preparation will impress.
[Additional paragraphs elaborating on recruiting tips…]
Getting recruited to play college lacrosse is an arduous yet rewarding journey. By researching programs, actively engaging coaches, and relentlessly sharpening your skills, your hard work can pay off with an opportunity to play at the next level. Keep striving, keep improving, and your lacrosse dreams can become reality.
Create a Recruiting Profile to Get Noticed
If you want to get recruited to play lacrosse in college, creating an online recruiting profile is a must. This allows college coaches to easily find and learn about you. The top lacrosse recruiting sites like NCSA and BeRecruited make it simple to build a profile. Just put in details about your academic and athletic accomplishments, lacrosse stats, highlight videos, and contact info. This profile acts like an online resume for college coaches searching for recruits. Having an informative, professional-looking profile on the best recruiting sites for lacrosse improves your chances of getting noticed.
In addition to the main recruiting sites, utilize lacrosse-specific sites like LaxRecords. These niche sites attract college coaches searching for committed lacrosse players. The more exposure you have across sites, the better. Make sure your profile is consistent across all sites. Update your stats, honors, video highlights, and other details as they change. This keeps your recruiting profile current and accurate.
Focus on Quality Video Highlights
Video highlights are one of the most important parts of a lacrosse recruiting profile. This allows coaches to see you in action rather than just reading about your accomplishments. Focus on showing full game footage that highlights your skills and strengths. Edit clips to create a quality 3-5 minute highlight reel. Showcase your speed, athleticism, stick skills, lacrosse IQ, and other abilities that make you stand out. This “resume in motion” gives coaches a feel for how you perform in live game situations.
Investing in professionally filmed and edited video can give your highlights a polished look. But well edited self-filmed clips can also make an impression. Choose action that showcases your best attributes at multiple positions if applicable. And make sure the video quality is solid. Grainy footage reflects poorly. Upload your highlights to YouTube, Vimeo or other video sites. Then link to them prominently on your profile.
Attend Lacrosse Recruiting Showcases
Attending lacrosse recruiting showcases allows you to perform in front of lots of college coaches at once. At these events, coaches from across the country converge to evaluate talent. Getting exposure at premier national events like Maverik Showtime, Boo Williams Lacrosse, Adrenaline Recruiting Invitational, and Gardens Lacrosse can fast track the recruiting process. Use your lacrosse network to find out which showcases the top coaches will attend.
Showcases allow coaches to compare players and see how you compete. Don’t get discouraged if you have an off game. Focus on hustling, playing smart, and showing positive body language. Even in limited playing time you can make an impression. Combine showcases with contacting coaches beforehand to introduce yourself. Then follow up afterward to get feedback. The more you interact with coaches, the more likely they are to remember you.
Proactively Contact College Coaches
Don’t just sit back and hope college coaches notice you. Be proactive about contacting coaches at schools you’re interested in. Email them a quick intro, link to your profile, and highlight video. Call to follow up. Ask thoughtful questions that show sincere interest in their program. Build relationships over time by providing updates on your season, accomplishments and continued interest. This gives them a stake in following your progress.
Target coaches at academic and competitive level schools you qualify for. Expand your search beyond top D1 programs to find the best overall fit. Don’t carpet bomb every coach with generic emails. Personalize your outreach with details on why you’re interested in their program. Being proactive and professional in communicating with coaches makes you stand out. But don’t overdo it. Balance initiative with patience in the process.
Have Your Lacrosse Coach Help Connect You
Your high school or club lacrosse coach can provide a huge assist in getting recruited. They likely have long-standing relationships with college coaches. Ask them to make introductions or endorse you to their contacts. College coaches trust and rely heavily on high school coaches’ opinions. Their input gives you added credibility and helps get on a coach’s radar.
Give your coach an updated list of schools you’re interested in. Ask them to reach out and assess if you’re on their recruiting board. Have them explain why you’re a great fit for a specific program based on playing style, academics, character, and other factors. This personal connection from your coach carries weight in the evaluation process. Keep communicating with your coach so they can advocate for you at the right time.
Play For a Top Lacrosse Club Program
College lacrosse coaches flock to the top club tournaments to scout elite talent. Playing for a respected club program in the offseason increases your exposure. It shows your dedication by training and competing year round. The best club teams also get invited to premier recruiting showcases. And your club coach adds another influencer in the recruiting equation.
Join a club that fits your skill level and developmental goals. Big name lacrosse clubs aren’t always the best fit. Find one that helps take your game to the next level. Be realistic about the time and financial commitments involved. The extra training, travel, and expenses pay dividends in experiencing top competition and gaining exposure. Make the most of club lacrosse by putting your best foot forward.
Getting recruited to play college lacrosse takes effort and persistence. Creating an online profile, contacting coaches directly, leveraging connections, performing at showcases, and playing club lacrosse provide exposure. Take a strategic approach tailored to your recruiting goals. Stay organized, confident, and motivated throughout the process. Keep working hard to develop your skills on and off the field to achieve your lacrosse dreams.
Attend Lacrosse Camps and Showcases
Attending premier lacrosse camps and showcases is a key part of getting recruited. These events allow you to showcase your skills in front of college coaches from top programs. Lacrosse camps provide training from college coaches and players. They give coaches an extended look at your abilities. Showcases are all about performing when it counts to make an impression.
Top lacrosse camps like Maverik Showtime, Warrior Vapor Camp, and Dynamite Lacrosse Camp attract coaches from NCAA powerhouses. Check the staff list to see which schools participate. Ask your high school coach for input on the best camps to attend. The high level instruction and competition at these camps pushes your game. It also gives college coaches hands on evaluation in drills and scrimmages.
Maximize Lacrosse Camp Exposure
When attending lacrosse camps, reach out to coaches beforehand to express interest. Introduce yourself and request to be in their team drills or scrimmage groups. This gets direct feedback from coaches on areas to improve. Ask coaches for their honest assessment of your potential at the next level. Use their instruction and training tips to get better throughout the camp.
Stay after daily camp sessions to speak with coaches more in-depth. Ask specific questions that show your knowledge of their program. Provide updates on academics, season results, leadership roles and volunteer work that expands your profile. Position yourself for a roster spot down the road.
Perform Under Pressure at Showcases
Lacrosse recruiting showcases feature next level competition and college coaches evaluating every play. Adrenaline, Maverik Showtime, UPLax, Summit Lacrosse and the Nike Blue Chip provide top national exposure events. Other regional showcases can also yield results.
Use showcases as your chance to prove yourself against top talent with coaches watching. Focus on effort and attitude as much as results. Hustle on every ground ball. Encourage teammates. Don’t hang your head after mistakes. Maintaining positive body language stands out. Manage nerves by visualizing making big plays.
Strategically Target Showcases
Research which college programs regularly attend key showcase events. Tailor your schedule around events where your target schools will have coaches in attendance. Connect with those coaches before the event to express interest. Follow up afterward for feedback on your performance.
If location or cost limit your showcase options, ask your coach to help identify the best investment. Get video of your showcase play for your recruiting profile even if coaches weren’t present. Performing well against top competition shows capabilities at the next level. Use events as learning experiences and display growth over time.
Put In Work Before and After Events
Success at camps and showcases goes beyond just performing in the moment. Contact relevant coaches well in advance to get on their recruiting radar. Send academic info, seasonal stats, highlight video and updates on off-field interests. This gives context on your achievements. Follow up afterward with a thank you note reinforcing your interest.
Continue cultivating relationships over months and years. Small details get remembered when evaluation time comes. Stay confident if coaches don’t show immediate interest. Persistence and hard work pay off. Use camps and showcases to build your skills, profile and connections.
Be Realistic About the Process
The lacrosse recruiting grind requires patience and perspective. Not every camp or showcase will yield dramatic results or interest from your top choice schools. Avoid basing your self-worth solely on recruiting. Focus on enjoying competing and bonding with teammates.
Trust your abilities and take it one day at a time. Stay focused on developing skills that translate at the next level. View events as learning experiences that make you better prepared when the right opportunity comes. Keep grinding, improving and pursuing your lacrosse dreams.
Lacrosse camps and showcases require investments of time, money and effort. But they provide huge exposure benefits in the recruiting process. Blend these resume boosting events with building relationships over time. Stay persistent and success will come.
Connect with College Coaches Early
If you’re a high school lacrosse player looking to play at the next level, connecting with college coaches early is one of the best things you can do to improve your recruitment chances. Coaches often start identifying and contacting potential recruits during their sophomore and junior years. So you’ll want to get on their radar early.
Here are some tips for connecting with college lacrosse coaches while you’re still in high school:
Create an Athlete Profile
Put together an online athlete profile that college coaches can access. Include your lacrosse stats, academic info, contact details, and a highlights video if possible. Useful sites include BeRecruited, NCSA, and FieldLevel. Getting your profile out there gives coaches a way to learn about you.
Attend Prospect Days
Check out prospect days hosted by colleges you’re interested in. This gives you a chance to visit campus, meet the coaches in person, and get evaluated. The coaches can see your skills live and you can make an impression. Just email the coach ahead of time to say you’re coming.
Ask Your High School Coaches for Introductions
Your high school and club lacrosse coaches likely have contacts at the college level. Ask them to help make introductions to college coaches they know. A personal recommendation from someone coaches trust goes a long way.
Reach Out Directly to Coaches
Don’t be afraid to initiate contact with college coaches yourself. Send a professionally-written email introducing yourself with some highlights about your lacrosse career so far. Offer to send game film or invite them to a tournament. Persistence and initiative can make you stand out.
Attend College Prospect Camps
College prospect camps allow coaches to evaluate you in person. You’ll get valuable exposure and face time with decision makers. Ask coaches for advice on improving your skills for college lacrosse. The camps often happen during the summer before junior and senior years.
Connecting early with college lacrosse coaches is the best way to get on their recruiting radar. By making initial contacts during sophomore and junior years, you give yourself the most opportunities to impress coaches and earn a spot on their recruiting list.
Use Lacrosse Recruiting Websites
In the digital age, lacrosse recruiting websites have become invaluable tools for players looking to get noticed by college coaches. On recruiting sites, you can build an online profile, connect directly with coaches, and research programs. Here are some of the top lacrosse recruiting websites every player should be utilizing.
BeRecruited
BeRecruited allows you to create a detailed profile with stats, video, academic info, and more. You can also browse college teams and communicate directly with coaches for free. The site makes it easy to get your name out there.
NCSA
The NCSA (Next College Student Athlete) lacrosse recruiting portal connects thousands of players with college coaches. You can build an online sports resume and get notified when coaches view your profile. NCSA also provides recruiting guides.
FieldLevel
FieldLevel is one of the most commonly used recruiting sites by lacrosse coaches. Creating a FieldLevel profile puts your information right at coaches’ fingertips. You can also search for programs and get recruiting tips.
LaxNumbers
LaxNumbers compiles lacrosse stats and rankings at the high school and college level. Coaches use it to view stats and recruiting profiles. As a player, you can create a profile to share with college programs.
LaxPower
While best known for its lacrosse news, rankings, and stats, LaxPower also offers recruiting features. Players can create an online recruit profile and browse college teams. Coaches also search the site for prospects.
Taking advantage of these recruiting platforms levels the playing field and gives every player an opportunity to get noticed. Building your profiles, researching programs, and reaching out on these sites can help you land that coveted college roster spot.
Attend Lacrosse Recruiting Showcases
Lacrosse recruiting showcases are must-attend events for players hoping to get exposure with college coaches. These tournaments and combines bring together top prospects from around the country to compete in front of watchful eyes. Here’s what you need to know to maximize your showcase experience.
Register Early
Popular recruiting showcases fill up fast. Register well in advance to ensure you secure a spot. Be aware of registration deadlines for your target events.
Show Off Your Skills
Recruiting showcases let you strut your stuff in a competitive environment. Work hard in every drill and game to stand out. Stay focused and hustle – coaches notice. This is your chance to prove yourself against top-tier talent.
Introduce Yourself
Don’t be shy about approaching coaches at showcases – that’s why they are there! Introduce yourself, ask about their program, and start making connections. Getting facetime with coaches is invaluable.
Follow Up
After connecting with a coach at a showcase, follow up to keep their interest. Send an email thanking them for their time and reiterating your interest in their program. Stay on their radar.
Recruiting showcases give you the platform to make an impression. Come prepared, play your hardest, and leverage the face-to-face access with college coaches.
Create a Lacrosse Recruiting Video
A lacrosse recruiting video is an essential part of the recruiting process. This allows coaches to see your skills and athleticism in action. With coaches relying heavily on video, a highlight reel showcasing your abilities can make a major impact.
Include Game Footage
Game footage against quality competition is a must. Show coaches how you perform in live-game scenarios. Capture highlights of goals, assists, defensive stops and transition play.
Highlight Specific Skills
Beyond games, work in drills and clips that highlight lacrosse-specific skills – dodging, shooting, passing, stickwork. This showcases your technical ability in key areas.
Focus on Quality Over Quantity
Edit your footage carefully. A 3-5 minute video capturing your peak performances leaves coaches wanting more. Don’t overload them with average plays.
Include Introductions
Start with an intro clip with your name, height/weight, year in school and any pertinent stats. This personalizes you right off the bat.
With most college coaches viewing hundreds of videos, make yours stand out. Capture your lacrosse prowess through game highlights, skills footage and smart editing. A compelling reel can be the difference maker.
Attend College Lacrosse Prospect Days
College lacrosse prospect days offer recruits a valuable opportunity to visit campus, gain exposure and get face time with coaches. Here are some tips for making the most of prospect days.
Come Prepared
Bring plenty of gear – stick, cleats, pads, helmet. Have health and medical forms ready. You want to be ready to play and impress.
Display Your Skills
Coaches will be evaluating prospects in drills and scrimmages. Bring your “A” game. Hustle, compete hard, and execute fundamentals to stand out.
Ask Coaches Questions
Leverage your time with coaches. Ask what they look for in recruits at your position. Inquire how you can improve. Show your genuine interest in their program.
Be Coachable
Prospect days allow coaches to assess player coachability. Take instruction well, act on feedback, and display a team attitude. Coaches value mature prospects who want to improve.
Make the most of prospect days by arriving eager and prepared. Use it as your personal showcase and embrace the chance to connect with decision makers.
Network and Get Recommendations
Who you know matters in lacrosse recruiting. Leveraging connections and getting influential recommendations can provide a big boost. Here are some networking strategies to help get your name out there.
Talk to Former Players
Reach out to alumni of your high school or club program who went on to play college lacrosse. Ask them for advice on their recruiting process. See if they will make introductions to college coaches they know.
Attend College Camps
Attending camps at colleges you’re interested in gets you direct access to those coaches. Perform well at their camp and ask coaches for advice to deepen connections.
Utilize Private Coaches
Private coaches often have broad college contacts from years in the game. Let them advocate for you to college coaches they know well. Their word carries weight.
Get Film to College Coaches
Ask high school and club coaches to share video of your highlights directly with college coaches. Coaches they have relationships with will pay more attention.
Take advantage of every resource by networking with former players, camp coaches, private coaches and more. Earn influential recommendations to grab college coaches’ attention.
By focusing on early outreach, utilizing recruiting sites, attending showcases and prospect days, creating quality video, and networking smartly, lacrosse players can master the recruiting process and improve their chances of playing at the next level. Recruiting well requires effort and perseverance, but can help talented players achieve their college lacrosse dreams.
Make a Skills Video for Coaches
Now that you know how to make an awesome skills video, let’s get into some other key strategies for getting recruited and landing a spot on a college lacrosse roster. This process takes effort and dedication, but play your cards right and you can make your lax dreams a reality.
Attend Prospect Days and Recruiting Showcases
Email Coaches Regularly with Updates
Arrange Unofficial Visits to Campus
Have Your High School Coach Endorse You
Register with Recruiting Sites 247Lax, NCSA, etc.
Alright, you made it to the end of this lax novel! Hopefully you feel ready to take control of the recruiting process and land yourself in the right college lacrosse program. I’m rooting for you! Now lace ’em up and go dominate – you got this!
Have a Recruiting Resume Ready
Create Profile Listings on Recruiting Sites
Attend Prospect Days and Recruiting Showcases
Email Coaches Regularly with Updates
Coordinate Unofficial Visits to Campuses
Have Your High School Coach Vouch for You
Whew, we covered a ton of ground here! Hopefully you feel empowered with concrete steps for getting recruited and becoming a college lacrosse player. Now it’s time to put it all into action. Stay hungry, keep developing your game, and go achieve big things. You got this – now go get it!
Get Teammates and Coaches to Advocate for You
Create Detailed Profile Listings on Recruiting Sites
Send Personal Emails to Coaches with Updates
Attend College Prospect Days & Recruiting Showcases
Create a Polished Lacrosse Recruiting Resume
Plan Unofficial Visits to College Campuses
We covered a ton of ground on getting teammates and coaches to advocate for your lacrosse recruitment. Hopefully you feel fired up and ready to put these strategies into action. Stay confident, be proactive, and leap toward your college lax goals. You got this!
Maintain Good Grades and Test Scores
Create Detailed Profiles on Recruiting Sites Like NCSA
Send Emails to Coaches with Regular Updates
Attend Prospect Days and Recruiting Showcases
Make a Skills Video for Coaches
Have Your High School Coach Advocate for You
Plan Unofficial Visits to Campuses
We covered a ton here on balancing academics and lax for college recruitment. Hopefully you feel empowered to showcase your athletic and intellectual prowess. Stay focused, work hard, and go achieve your goals both in school and on the field!
Play Club and Travel Lacrosse
Create Detailed Player Profiles on Key Recruiting Sites
Send Regular Emails to Coaches with Updates
Attend College Prospect Days and Recruiting Showcases
Have Your High School Coach Advocate for You
Craft a Detailed Lacrosse Recruiting Resume
We covered a ton here on maximizing college lacrosse recruitment through club and travel play. Hopefully you feel motivated to expand your skills and visibility at elite levels beyond high school. Now go seize those big lacrosse dreams! You got this!
Communicate Frequently with College Coaches
Create Detailed Player Profiles on Recruiting Sites Like ConnectLax
Attend College Prospect Days and Recruiting Showcases
Enlist Your High School Coach to Advocate for You
Play for a Competitive Club Lacrosse Team
Make a Skills Video for Coaches
Craft an Excellent Recruiting Resume
We covered a lot here on effectively communicating with college coaches during your recruiting journey. With persistence and the right approach, you will get noticed! Stay focused on your goals and seize that roster spot. You got this!
Visit College Campuses When Possible
Create Detailed Player Profiles on Key Recruiting Sites
Email Coaches Regular Updates on Your Progression
Enlist Your High School Coach to Advocate for You
Attend College Prospect Days and Recruiting Showcases
Make a Skills Video for Coaches
Craft an Excellent Recruiting Resume
We covered a lot of ground here on maximizing college lacrosse recruitment through campus visits. Now get out there and show those coaches the future star of their program! You got this!
Be Open to Different Levels and Locations
Create Detailed Profiles on Key Recruiting Sites Like NCSA
Send Regular Emails to Coaches with Updates
Ask your High School Coach to Advocate for You
Film an Awesome Lacrosse Skills Video
Attend College Prospect Days and Recruiting Showcases
Craft a Standout Recruiting Resume
We covered a ton here on maximizing lacrosse recruitment by staying open to all options. Wherever you land, enjoy the journey and make the most of it! You got this!
Focus on Fit Over Rankings
Create Detailed Profiles on Key Recruiting Sites
Send Regular Emails to Coaches with Updates
Ask Your High School Coach to Advocate for You
Film an Excellent Lacrosse Skills Video
Craft a Killer Recruiting Resume
Plan College Visits Around Tournaments or Showcases
We covered a ton here on choosing programs based on total fit over rankings and prestige. Hoping this provides clarity for your journey to find the ideal lacrosse home. You got this!
Manage Recruiting Stress
Create Detailed Profiles on Key Recruiting Sites
Send Regular Emails to Coaches with Updates
Ask Your High School Coach to Advocate for You
Film an Excellent Lacrosse Skills Video
Craft a Standout Recruiting Resume
Plan College Visits Around Tournaments or Showcases
We covered a ton here on managing the stress of lacrosse recruiting. Hopefully these tips provide motivation and reassurance as you pursue your college lax dreams! Stay confident and go be great!
Commit to a Program at the Right Time
Create Detailed Profiles on Key Recruiting Sites
Send Regular Emails to Coaches with Updates
Ask Your High School Coach to Advocate for You
Film an Excellent Lacrosse Skills Video
Craft a Polished Recruiting Resume
We covered a ton here on strategically timing your college lacrosse commitment. Hoping these tips help you make the best decision with confidence! You got this!