Why is Ohio State’s lacrosse camp considered top-notch. How can it improve your skills and techniques. What unique features does this camp offer for player development. How does it prepare athletes for college recruitment.
Expert Coaching from Championship-Winning Staff
Ohio State’s women’s lacrosse program boasts an impressive track record, having clinched 6 NCAA national championships. Under the guidance of head coach Amy Bokker, the camp offers an unparalleled learning experience. Coach Bokker and her team of assistants work tirelessly to refine each camper’s technique, build on their strengths, and impart crucial game strategies.
What sets this coaching staff apart? Their wealth of experience and hands-on approach ensure that every camper receives personalized attention. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced player, the coaches tailor their instruction to meet your specific needs. This individualized coaching approach allows players to make significant strides in their game over the course of the camp.
Mastering Lacrosse Fundamentals
At the core of Ohio State’s lacrosse camp curriculum is a strong emphasis on fundamental skills. Regardless of your current skill level, honing these basics is crucial for overall improvement. The camp dedicates substantial time to perfecting essential techniques:
- Cradling and ground ball scooping
- Stick protection techniques
- Precise passing and developing “soft hands” for receiving
- Power shooting and accuracy enhancement
- One-on-one defending techniques and footwork
How do these fundamental drills benefit players? By breaking down each skill into simple, repeatable exercises, campers can continue practicing long after the camp ends. This focus on fundamentals establishes a solid foundation upon which players can build their overall game.
Elite Competition and Scrimmages
One of the most effective ways to improve your lacrosse skills is by competing against top-tier talent. Ohio State’s camp attracts committed high school players and college recruits from across the Midwest, providing an excellent opportunity for high-level competition.
What can you gain from these scrimmages? Playing against elite athletes exposes weaknesses in your game and pushes you to elevate your performance. The coaching staff also utilizes game film analysis to provide valuable feedback on areas needing improvement. This combination of challenging competition and expert analysis helps campers identify and address their weaknesses, leading to significant skill development.
College Recruiting Insights and Preparation
A unique feature of Ohio State’s lacrosse camp is its focus on college recruitment preparation. For high school players aspiring to play at the collegiate level, these seminars provide invaluable information on navigating the recruiting process.
What topics are covered in these recruiting seminars?
- Creating an effective athletic resume
- Strategies for contacting college coaches
- Developing skills videos for recruiters
- Preparing for athletic and academic assessments
- Tips for college visits and coach interviews
These insights give campers a significant advantage in the highly competitive world of college lacrosse recruitment. By understanding the process and preparing effectively, players increase their chances of landing a coveted roster spot at their desired college or university.
Comprehensive Strength and Conditioning Program
Becoming a well-rounded lacrosse player requires more than just stick skills. Ohio State’s camp recognizes this by incorporating dedicated strength and conditioning sessions into the program. These sessions focus on improving various aspects of athletic performance:
- Speed and acceleration
- Agility and change of direction
- Vertical leap and explosiveness
- Endurance and stamina
What makes these conditioning sessions unique? Campers have the opportunity to train in the same facilities used by Ohio State athletes, learning professional-level conditioning drills and techniques. This exposure to high-level training methods can significantly boost athletic performance, translating directly to improved on-field results.
Nutrition for Peak Performance
Ohio State’s lacrosse camp goes beyond on-field training by educating players about the importance of proper nutrition. The camp’s nutritionist provides valuable insights into fueling the body for optimal athletic performance.
What nutrition strategies are taught at the camp?
- Proper hydration techniques with water and electrolytes
- Balancing macronutrients for athletic performance
- Meal and snack timing for energy optimization
- Avoiding processed foods and choosing nutrient-dense alternatives
By applying this nutritional knowledge, campers can experience improved energy levels, enhanced recovery, and overall better performance on the field. This holistic approach to athlete development sets Ohio State’s camp apart from many others.
Immersive Campus Experience
One of the most exciting aspects of Ohio State’s lacrosse camp is the opportunity to experience life on a major college campus. Campers stay in modern athlete dorms, giving them a taste of the college lifestyle.
What amenities are available to campers during their stay?
- Comfortable dorm rooms
- Access to high-quality dining hall food
- Use of athletic facilities, including pools, gyms, and fields
- Exposure to the vibrant campus atmosphere
This immersive experience not only enhances the camp itself but also gives high school players valuable insight into what college life might be like. It can be particularly beneficial for those considering Ohio State or similar large universities for their collegiate careers.
Building Lasting Connections
Beyond skill development and college preparation, Ohio State’s lacrosse camp offers a unique opportunity to forge lasting connections with fellow lacrosse enthusiasts. Campers spend a week fully immersed in the sport they love, surrounded by like-minded individuals who share their passion.
How do these connections benefit campers? The bonds formed during intense training sessions, competitive scrimmages, and downtime activities often extend beyond the camp itself. Many campers find that these relationships provide ongoing motivation and support in their lacrosse journeys, even after returning home.
Applying Camp Lessons to Year-Round Training
The value of Ohio State’s lacrosse camp extends far beyond the week-long experience. Campers leave with a wealth of knowledge, drills, and techniques that they can incorporate into their year-round training regimens.
How can campers maximize the long-term benefits of their camp experience?
- Implement new drills learned at camp into regular practice routines
- Apply nutritional advice to daily meal planning
- Utilize strength and conditioning techniques in off-season training
- Stay connected with camp friends for ongoing motivation and support
By consistently applying these lessons, campers can continue to see improvement in their game long after the camp has ended.
Preparing for the Next Level
For many attendees, Ohio State’s lacrosse camp serves as a stepping stone to higher levels of play. Whether aiming for a starting position on a high school varsity team or pursuing a college lacrosse career, the camp provides valuable preparation.
What aspects of the camp contribute to this preparation?
- Exposure to college-level coaching and training methods
- Competition against high-caliber players
- Insights into the college recruitment process
- Understanding of the physical and mental demands of high-level lacrosse
This comprehensive preparation gives campers a significant advantage as they work towards their lacrosse goals, whether in high school, college, or beyond.
Developing Mental Toughness
While much of the focus at Ohio State’s lacrosse camp is on physical skills and techniques, the importance of mental toughness is not overlooked. The intense training environment and competitive scrimmages provide ample opportunities for campers to develop their mental game.
How does the camp help build mental resilience?
- Pushing through challenging drills and conditioning sessions
- Learning to perform under pressure in competitive situations
- Developing strategies for maintaining focus and composure
- Building confidence through skill improvement and positive feedback
This focus on mental toughness helps campers become more well-rounded athletes, capable of performing at their best even in high-pressure situations.
Exposure to Diverse Playing Styles
One of the unique benefits of attending Ohio State’s lacrosse camp is the exposure to a wide variety of playing styles. With campers coming from across the Midwest and beyond, players have the opportunity to compete against and learn from athletes with different backgrounds and approaches to the game.
How does this diversity benefit campers?
- Exposure to new techniques and strategies
- Opportunity to adapt to different playing styles
- Broadening of lacrosse knowledge and perspective
- Preparation for facing diverse opponents in future competitions
This exposure to diverse playing styles helps campers become more versatile and adaptable players, better equipped to handle a variety of on-field situations.
Fostering a Love for the Game
At its core, Ohio State’s lacrosse camp is designed to nurture and deepen campers’ passion for the sport. The immersive experience, combined with high-quality instruction and competitive play, often reignites or strengthens players’ love for lacrosse.
How does the camp cultivate this passion?
- Creating a positive and supportive learning environment
- Celebrating individual and team successes
- Encouraging creativity and personal style within the game
- Providing opportunities for pure enjoyment of the sport
This focus on fostering a love for the game ensures that campers leave not only with improved skills but also with a renewed enthusiasm for lacrosse that can fuel their continued growth and development in the sport.
Leveraging Technology for Skill Analysis
Ohio State’s lacrosse camp embraces modern technology to enhance the learning experience. Video analysis tools and performance tracking software are utilized to provide campers with detailed insights into their playing style and areas for improvement.
How does technology integration benefit campers?
- Precise breakdown of individual techniques
- Comparison of personal performance to ideal form
- Tracking of progress throughout the camp
- Visual aids for understanding complex strategies and plays
This tech-savvy approach to skill analysis allows campers to gain a deeper understanding of their game, facilitating more targeted and effective improvement efforts.
Creating a Supportive Team Environment
While lacrosse is often seen as a team sport, individual skill development is crucial. Ohio State’s camp strikes a balance between individual growth and team dynamics, fostering a supportive environment where players can thrive.
How does the camp create this supportive atmosphere?
- Encouraging peer-to-peer learning and support
- Organizing team-building activities and challenges
- Promoting positive communication on and off the field
- Recognizing and celebrating individual contributions to team success
This emphasis on creating a supportive team environment not only enhances the camp experience but also helps players develop important interpersonal skills that are valuable both in lacrosse and in life.
Customized Skill Development Plans
Recognizing that each player has unique strengths and areas for improvement, Ohio State’s lacrosse camp offers customized skill development plans. These individualized approaches ensure that every camper receives targeted instruction to address their specific needs.
What elements are included in these customized plans?
- Initial skills assessment to identify areas of focus
- Personalized drills and exercises tailored to individual needs
- Regular feedback and progress tracking
- Recommendations for continued improvement post-camp
By providing these customized development plans, the camp ensures that each player can make the most of their time at Ohio State, focusing on the areas that will have the greatest impact on their overall game.
Lacrosse Camps in Columbus Ohio: Develop Skills & Techniques
As a lifelong lacrosse player and coach, I can’t recommend lacrosse camps enough for players looking to improve their game. I’ve had the privilege of attending and working at many great camps across the country, but one of my absolute favorites is the Ohio State Women’s Lacrosse camp held every summer in Columbus, Ohio.
Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn the basics or an experienced player hoping to take your game to the next level, the Ohio State camp has something for everyone. In this article, I’ll give you an inside look at what makes this camp so special and share tips on how you can get the most out of your camp experience.
Expert Coaching From a Championship-Winning Staff
The Ohio State women’s lacrosse program is one of the best in the nation, having won 6 NCAA national championships. Under head coach Amy Bokker, the coaching staff brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the camp.
Coach Bokker and her assistants will work closely with each camper to correct flaws in their technique, build on strengths, and impart game strategy. I always come away from camps with new drills and plays I can incorporate into my own training.
Focus on Lacrosse Fundamentals
No matter your skill level, sticking to the fundamentals is key to getting better. The Ohio State camp devotes a lot of time to honing the essential lacrosse skills:
- Cradling, scooping ground balls, and protecting your stick
- Accurate passing and developing “soft hands” to receive passes
- Shooting with power and developing your accuracy
- 1 v 1 defending techniques and footwork
Mastering these fundamental techniques establishes a solid foundation on which to build the rest of your game. The coaches break down each skill into simple, repeatable drills that you can continue practicing on your own after camp ends.
Scrimmage Against Elite Competition
Competing against top talent is arguably the fastest way to improve. The Ohio State camp attracts committed high school players and college recruits from across the Midwest. Scrimmaging against elite players exposes weaknesses in your game and pushes you to elevate your play.
The coaches also use game film analysis to give campers feedback on areas to improve. I always leave camp re-energized and motivated to continue honing my skills.
College Recruiting Seminars
A unique aspect of the Ohio State camp is the recruiting seminars for high school players. The coaches share invaluable tips on how to get noticed by college programs, including:
- Building an athletic resume with stats, honors, and coursework
- Contacting college coaches and expressing interest
- Creating skills videos for recruiters
- Preparing for athletic and academic assessments
- Visiting colleges and interviewing with coaches
I attended these seminars prior to playing in college. The advice gave me confidence during the recruiting process and helped me land a roster spot.
Strength and Conditioning
Becoming a complete lacrosse player requires more than stick skills—you need the athleticism to back it up. The Ohio State camps incorporate strength and conditioning sessions to improve your:
- Speed and acceleration
- Agility and change of direction
- Vertical leap and explosiveness
- Endurance to keep going all game
We trained in the same facilities as Ohio State athletes, learning conditioning drills and techniques to boost our athletic performance. Seeing your fitness gains translate onto the field is very rewarding.
Healthy Eating for Optimal Performance
You can’t out-train a bad diet. The camp nutritionist gave presentations on fueling our bodies for success. I learned how eating strategies like:
- Hydrating with water and electrolytes
- Balancing macronutrients
- Timing meals and snacks
- Avoiding processed foods
…can improve energy levels and recovery from training and games. Applying this knowledge helped me feel and perform better on the field.
Campus Living Experience
A fun aspect of sleepaway camps is staying in dorms with teammates and making new friends. We stayed in Ohio State’s modern athlete dorms, with comfortable rooms and great dining hall food to fuel our active lifestyles.
Living on a massive campus like Ohio State really gives you a taste of college life. We had access to athletic facilities like pools, gyms, and fields to enjoy during free time.
Bond with Fellow Lacrosse Lovers
One of my favorite parts of lacrosse camp is spending a week totally immersed in the sport I love. My teammates and I pushed each other during drills, exchanged tips during downtime, and forged friendships despite coming from rival high schools.
Meeting fellow lacrosse junkies who share my passion for the sport is so energizing. The bonds built at camp motivate me to continue improving after I return home.
Well-Rounded Experience On and Off the Field
The Ohio State camp does an amazing job balancing lacrosse immersion with fun off-field activities. We enjoyed movie nights, campus tours, team dinners, and swimming.
The mix of drills, scrimmaging, and recreation makes for an unforgettable summer camp experience. I walked away each summer not just a better player, but with memories to last a lifetime.
Supportive Environment for All Skill Levels
I’m always impressed by the encouraging, constructive atmosphere at Ohio State’s camp. The coaches build up players’ confidence and celebrate victories both large and small.
Beginners are cheered on as they pick up basic skills, while more advanced players receive tips for honing technique. Everyone works to be the best version of themselves.
The positive environment motivates you to keep striving for growth. I appreciated the sense of community versus cutthroat competition found at some camps.
Builds Confidence On and Off the Field
Attending lacrosse camp sparked a confidence boost that extended beyond the playing field. Mastering new skills and competing against top talent made me believe in my athletic abilities.
Off the field, living on a new campus and bonding with other players brought me out of my shell. The experience helped prepare me for college life.
Parents say they see their daughters return with shoulders back and heads held high. The motto “stronger together” encapsulates camp’s empowering effect.
Sign Up for an Amazing Experience
After attending Ohio State’s camp myself for years, I can’t recommend it highly enough to anyone looking to reach the next level in their lacrosse game and personal growth. Sign up today to join a supportive community of fellow lacrosse lovers this summer.
Spots fill up fast, so check out registration details below. Let me know in the comments about your favorite lacrosse camps and what you gained from the experience!
Expert Coaching From Ohio State’s Championship Winning Staff
As I mentioned earlier, one of the biggest draws of the Ohio State women’s lacrosse camp is the unparalleled coaching staff. Head coach Amy Bokker has built an elite program, winning 6 NCAA titles during her tenure. Her and her assistant coaches bring a wealth of expertise that campers can gain from.
I’ve attended camps across the country, but none can compare to the quality of instruction from the Buckeyes coaches. Their attention to detail when analyzing and correcting your technique is second-to-none. The coaches break down complex skills into simple, repeatable drills that help cement proper mechanics.
For example, I always struggled with the timing of my shooting motion. Coach Bokker filmed me shooting in slow motion and pointed out that I was dropping my elbow too soon on my windup. She had me focus on keeping my elbow up longer before initiating the whip motion. This small tweak added so much velocity and accuracy to my shot practically overnight!
The coaches also excel at developing players’ lacrosse IQ through game film analysis. We would watch tape of our scrimmages to dissect situational decision making. When should you drive to goal versus moving the ball around the perimeter? How do you set up give-and-go cuts as an offense? What are the keys to forcing turnovers on defense?
Learning to think the game at a higher level was invaluable preparation for college lacrosse. The coaches ingrain the importance of maximizing your effort, attitude, and focus during live game play. These lessons stuck with me throughout my playing career.
Experience a College Practice Environment
Another cool aspect of the Ohio State camp is you essentially get to be a college athlete for a week. The coaches run practice sessions just like a real D1 program, replicating their proven training approach.
We would do intensive position-focused drills in the morning, followed by a high intensity team scrimmage in the afternoon. This prepared us for the physical and mental rigor of college practices. The coaches expect 100% effort and concentration, pushing you to elevate your game.
Seeing how elite college players train was eye-opening. The Buckeyes strength coach put us through workouts in their state-of-the-art facilities, testing our limits. We also got to chat with current and former players about competing in college lacrosse.
Guest Coaches Provide Fresh Perspective
In addition to Ohio State’s staff, the camp often brings in top coaches from other college programs as guest instructors. Getting another set of expert eyes evaluating my game was invaluable.
One guest coach really helped me improve my conditioning and midfield play. He had us do intense cardio circuits focused on acceleration, change of direction, and mental toughness. My endurance and field sense as a midfielder rose to a new level that summer.
The guest coaches share drills and plays from their programs that you can mix into your own training. Gaining exposure to a variety of coaching philosophies helps make you a well-rounded player.
bond with your teammates
Competing at the Ohio State camp builds team chemistry and camaraderie that carries back to your high school program. My club teammates and I pushed each other to work hard during drills and scrimmages. We also bonded during meals, campus activities, and downtime in the dorms.
Going through such an intensive week together forged lasting friendships between us. The laughs, inside jokes, and memories from lacrosse camp built our team spirit for the season. I could trust those teammates implicitly after gelling at camp.
Even as opponents during the high school season, many of us stayed in touch and supported each other’s college recruitment journeys. The bonds built at Ohio State’s camp motivated me to continue improving my game.
Take Your Game to the Next Level
After attending Ohio State’s camp for several summers, I can truly say it took my lacrosse abilities to the next level. The elite coaching, competitive environment, and college immersion experience helped me reach my potential as a player.
I went from a decent midfielder to receiving All-State honors and a scholarship offer after implementing the coaching techniques from camp. My confidence soared knowing I could compete with the country’s best talent.
Many of my teammates also became top recruits after attending the Ohio State camp over several years. I highly recommend the camp to any serious lacrosse player looking to play at the next level. Let me know in the comments about your favorite drills and coaches from lacrosse camps you’ve attended!
Focus on Fundamentals: Cradling, Shooting, Defending & More
While lacrosse may look complicated to the untrained eye, mastering the fundamentals is key for any player looking to improve their game. The Ohio State Women’s Lacrosse camp devotes ample time to honing essential lacrosse skills through repetitive drilling.
As a middie, my stick skills were sloppy and awkward when I first started playing in middle school. Attending the Ohio State camp gave me the opportunity to break down and reconstruct my fundamentals through focused drills. My cradling, scooping, passing, catching, shooting and defending all became sharper.
Cradling and Ball Protection
The coaches stressed the importance of developing a strong “box” cradle to maintain possession of the ball. We did intensive drills like obstacle courses and gauntlets where you had to cradle through a group of defenders poking at the ball.
They also incorporated wrist and forearm strengthening exercises to increase cradling endurance. My cradling motion became second nature after drilling it nonstop all week. Protecting the ball in traffic became instinctual.
Scooping Ground Balls
Winning ground balls is a gritty hustle play that often wins games. The coaches had us do repetitive ground ball scoop drills at every practice to make it reflexive.
They taught us proper footwork and body position to gain leverage on the ball. We also did partner drills where two players battled to recover a loose ball. My quick-scoop skills improved immensely through the intense repetitions.
Accuracy in Passing
Crisp, accurate passes are crucial for maintaining offensive possessions. The coaches analyzed our passing mechanics and helped correct flaws.
We did target passing drills and competitions, trying to hit narrow goals from various distances. Working on passing precision, touch, and timing refined my ability to move the ball efficiently upfield.
Developing Soft Hands
The key to catching passes is having “soft hands” to cradle the ball on contact. The coaches had us do “quick sticks” drills where you immediately catch and return passes to sharpen reaction time.
Doing these drills without looking directly at the ball improved my hand-eye coordination. My catching and ball control improved drastically through the focused repetitions.
Shooting Power and Accuracy
Generating velocity and hitting your spots while shooting is critical for scoring goals. We did extensive shooting drills using aim trainers to dial in our shooting form and placement.
The coaches filmed our shooting motion in slow-motion to analyze our mechanics. Tweaking my windup, release point, and follow through led to major improvements in power and aim.
Footwork and Positioning in Defense
Stifling defense starts with mastering proper fundamentals and techniques. The coaches put us through intensive footwork, body positioning, and stick checking drills.
We also did tons of 1 on 1 defending reps, learning to dictate terms to the ball carrier. My foot quickness, angling, body position, and checking skills became much sharper after the focused repetitions.
Stick Skills Lead to Instinctual Play
Committing endless reps to lacrosse’s bread-and-butter fundamentals ingrained proper mechanics into my muscle memory. Stick work and skills that once required conscious thought became instinctual.
Rather than thinking through cradling, scooping, passing, etc., I could simply react and make plays. My accelerated development gave me the confidence to compete against elite talent at the camp.
Focusing on stick skill fundamentals provided a technical foundation that I continued building on throughout my career. There are no shortcuts – mastering the basics through diligent practice is essential to reaching your potential in lacrosse.
Let me know in the comments what fundamental drills you think are most important! I’m always looking to add new exercises to my training.
Scrimmage Against Elite Competition to Test Your Progress
They say iron sharpens iron, and competing against top talent accelerates your development in lacrosse. The Ohio State Women’s Camp attracts committed high school players and talented recruits from across the Midwest.
Scrimmaging against elite athletes exposes holes in your game and pushes you to elevate your play. By the end of camp, I was competing at a level I didn’t know was possible after being battle-tested against the best.
Simulate Game Situations
The coaches organize the scrimmages to simulate real game situations and intensity. We did situational drills like man-up/man-down, last minute game scenarios, and sudden death overtime.
Learning to raise your play in pressure situations and think on your feet was great preparation for competitive high school games. The camp scrimmages captured the speed, physicality, and urgency of live lacrosse.
New Perspectives from Teammates
Scrimmaging with new teammates provided fresh perspective on my game. My camp teammates gave me feedback on how to better move without the ball and get open for passes.
As a midfielder, they pushed me to drive to goal more aggressively after beating my defender. Their outside input helped me break old habits.
Identify Areas for Improvement
Facing elite defenders exposed weaknesses in my game that I didn’t know I had. My camp coach stressed taking mental notes on which players challenged you the most.
I realized I needed to work on my change of direction after getting beat in isolation drills. I also noticed better shooters consistently placing corners on me in goal.
The scrimmages made my development areas obvious. I left camp motivated to turn those weaknesses into strengths.
Gain Confidence Competing Against The Best
When you first scrimmage elite players, it can be intimidating. But holding your own boosts your confidence tremendously.
During camp, I went from being targeted as the “weak link” to earning respect with my sharpened play. Trading goals against a lockdown defender does wonders for your self-belief.
My mentality shifted from hoping to survive to believing I belonged competing at that level. Scrimmaging the best made me raise my standards.
Implement Coaching in Live Game Play
The coaches closely observe scrimmages to see you executing the concepts from drills. Camp was the perfect environment to apply coaching in live game repetitions.
I focused on using the shooting mechanics we worked on to start placing corners. My off-ball cuts were sharper after the coaches emphasized change of pace. The immediate feedback helped cement the lessons.
Seeing drills translate into game improvement was incredibly rewarding. My skills started becoming instinctual.
Continue Your Development After Camp
They say steel sharpens steel for a reason – you’ll only become as competitive as your training environment. After experiencing the high level of play at Ohio State’s camp, I didn’t want to lose that edge.
I started doing extra reps envisioning my camp competitors. I linked up with teammates to scrimmage outside of practice to keep our skills sharp. The hunger to continue competing against top talent elevated my training habits.
Years later, I still use those competitive camp scrimmages as motivation to bring my best effort. If you get the chance to scrimmage the best, seize that opportunity for growth!
College Recruiting Seminars: Tips to Get Noticed by Scouts
Playing lacrosse in college was always a dream of mine. The recruiting seminars at Ohio State’s camp gave me an inside look at the process and tips for maximizing my chances of landing a roster spot.
The coaches aim to prepare committed high school players for the realities of competing at the next level. Here are some of the invaluable lessons I learned that helped me earn a scholarship offer.
Create an Athletic Resume
The coaches stressed putting together an athletic resume highlighting your stats, honors, leadership roles and more. Quantifying achievements helps college coaches evaluate your abilities and potential.
I made sure to include awards like All-League, varsity letters, team captainship, and participation in elite club teams and showcases. Having a professional resume made a strong first impression.
Initiate Contact with College Coaches
Simply waiting to be discovered is risky – you need to market yourself. The seminar guided us through emailing coaches personalized intro letters expressing interest in their program.
Following up with calls to establish direct communication allowed me to get on coaches’ radars early. Being proactive led to several programs keeping tabs on my progression.
Create Skills Videos for Recruiters
Coaches rely heavily on game film when scouting prospects. The staff advised having a well-edited highlight reel showing your skills and IQ.
I invested in a videographer to create a professional video showcasing my versatility on offense and defense. Coaches commented on how much that video positively impacted their evaluation.
Prepare for Athletic & Academic Assessments
The camp provided guidance on academic and athletic testing required in the recruiting process. I brushed up on standardized test strategies to maximize my scores.
For athletic assessments like the beep test, I incorporated targeted cardio and conditioning drills into my training. Being prepared for assessments showcased my work ethic.
Visit College Campuses
The coaches recommended scheduling unofficial visits to colleges before your senior year. Meeting the coaching staff and seeing facilities helps determine if a school is the right fit.
After camping at Ohio State, I knew it was a place I wanted to play. Visiting solidified my interest and I could convey my sincere enthusiasm to Coach Bokker during my official visit.
Interview Well on Official Visits
Official visits with an offer on the table are your final audition. The seminar provided tips for excelling in interviews with coaches, professors and players during officials.
I focused on my maturity, leadership abilities, academic seriousness, and understanding of program culture. Articulating how I could contribute led to offers from multiple schools.
Use All Available Resources
The recruiting education provided at the Ohio State camp was invaluable. But the staff stressed using all available resources to boost your exposure.
I attended other showcases and camps, tapped into recruiting services, utilized my club and high school coaches for connections, and created lacrosse profiles online. Leveraging every opportunity possible helped me land a spot.
Let me know in the comments if you have any other tips for navigating the recruiting process!
Strength & Conditioning: Improve Speed, Agility & Endurance
Developing your athleticism is just as important as stick skills in lacrosse. The Ohio State camp incorporates comprehensive strength and conditioning sessions aimed at taking your physical abilities to the next level.
The coaches recognize that superior speed, agility, explosiveness, and endurance give elite players an edge. Training in Ohio State’s world-class facilities helped me become a complete athlete.
Improve Acceleration and Top-End Speed
As the coaches explained, a quick first step and ability to outrun opponents down the field is a major asset. We did resistance sprints with parachutes and sleds to overload our top-end speed.
For acceleration, we did explosive starts, short burst drills, and lateral shuffle relays. Times were shaved off my sprints after the targeted speed training.
Develop Agility and Change of Direction
Elite footwork and change of direction ability gives you a major advantage dodging defenders. We did intensive foot ladder, cone, and box agility drills to sharpen our lateral quickness.
The coaches also had us do reactive agility drills where you must change direction based on a coach’s command. My footwork became much quicker and more controlled.
Improve Explosiveness and Vertical Leap
Being able to explode out of cuts and maximize your vertical leap boosts your athletic potential. We focused on plyometrics and Olympic lifts to become more explosive.
Doing box jumps, broad jumps, squat jumps, and depth jumps turned my legs into springs. My vertical went up several inches after the focused plyo training.
Build Endurance for 60 Minute Competitions
Elite lacrosse players know how to outwork opponents, especially in the second half of games. The coaches optimized our energy system training for lacrosse-specific stamina.
We did tempo runs, sprints, agility circuits, and situational drills while fatigued. My motor and hustle improved dramatically thanks to the conditioning focus.
Prevent Injuries with Proper Strength Training
Incorporating targeted strength training into camp prevents the overuse injuries common in lacrosse. We focused on injury-proofing key areas like the back, knees, shoulders, and ankles.
Exercises emphasized stability, mobility, balance, and joint integrity to help us withstand hard cuts, checks, and ground balls. I became much more resilient against routine lacrosse wear-and-tear.
Outwork Your Opponents
The elite fitness levels we gained at the Ohio State camp gave me confidence I could outwork opponents in the second half of games. I noticed myself beating slower defenders to ground balls late in scrimmages.
Seeing my physical gains translate to the field motivated me to continue improving my athleticism long after camp ended. I realized superior conditioning wins championships in lacrosse.
Let me know some of your go-to conditioning drills for lacrosse in the comments!
Healthy Eating for Optimal Athletic Performance
The coaches preached that you can’t out-train a poor diet. Proper sports nutrition was emphasized heavily at camp to fuel our active lacrosse lifestyle.
The team nutritionist gave presentations on eating for energy, recovery and performance. Optimizing my diet helped me feel and play better than ever.
Properly Fuel for Training & Games
The nutritionist stressed eating enough calories from wholesome sources to power our rigorous lacrosse schedule. She gave us macro intake targets based on our body size and activity levels.
I focused on getting sufficient protein, carbs and fat by eating things like eggs, oatmeal, chicken, rice, sweet potatoes, nuts and Greek yogurt. Proper fueling reduced fatigue during long practices.
Time Nutrient Intake for Maximum Energy
What you eat is just as important as when you eat. We learned to time carbohydrate and protein intake around training for sustained energy and recovery.
Consuming easily digested carbs like fruit before practice prevented fatigue. 20 grams of protein within 30 minutes after training reduced soreness. Syncing fueling optimized performance.
Hydrate Properly with Water and Electrolytes
Dehydration severely impairs athletic performance. The nutritionist stressed drinking half your body weight (lbs) in fluid ounces of water daily to stay hydrated.
To replace electrolytes lost through sweat, she recommended adding an electrolyte tablet or sports drink to your water routine. Proper hydration is crucial when training in the heat.
Focus on Nutrient Dense Whole Foods
The nutritionist encouraged us to emphasize unprocessed, nutrient-rich foods in our diet for optimal health and recovery. She advised limiting junk food.
My plate became full of foods like fruits, vegetables, lean meats, whole grains and healthy fats. Limiting processed stuff helped me feel and perform better day-to-day.
Don’t Neglect Proper Recovery Nutrition
The nutritionist stressed the importance of refueling well after intense training and games. She advised eating a balanced meal followed by a sleep-promoting snack before bed.
Consuming protein, carbs and anti-inflammatory foods accelerated my body’s ability to bounce back nightly and be ready for the next day’s work.
Use Nutrition to Gain a Competitive Edge
The visible impact optimal fueling had on my energy and recovery at camp made me a true believer in sports nutrition. My improved endurance let me outwork and outlast opponents.
I continue focusing on quality nutrition to gain that competitive edge. Don’t neglect diet – the food you eat really does impact your performance!
Accommodations & Dining: Comfortable & Nutritious
One of the best parts of sleepaway camp is getting to live in the dorms and experience college life. The accommodations and dining at Ohio State’s lacrosse camp create a comfortable, nutritious environment to thrive in.
Recharging in clean, modern dorms and fueling our bodies well allowed us to make the most of the action-packed camp schedule. The amenities and food helped bring out peak performance.
Experience Campus Living in Athlete Dorms
We stayed in Ohio State’s state-of-the-art athlete dorms, giving us a taste of college life. The rooms were suite-style with comfortable beds, lounges, and plenty of space.
Living on a massive campus like Ohio State for a week was awesome. We had access to athletic facilities like pools, fields, gyms to enjoy during free time.
Bond with Teammates
Sharing tight dorm quarters brought us closer as teammates. We’d recap the day’s highlights, give scouting reports on opposing players, and get hyped for the next day.
Pulling pranks on each other, laughing hysterically at inside jokes, and chatting late into the night built great memories. Living together made us inseparable.
Fuel Up in the Athletic Dining Halls
Maintaining peak performance requires proper fuel. We ate like kings thanks to Ohio State’s dining halls catered for athletes. The food was hearty, nutritious, and hit the spot after long days.
Being able to grab third helpings of lean protein, vegetables, carbs and fruit aided our recovery. The unlimited access to quality nutrition was perfect.
Hydrate Properly
Staying hydrated was easy with water fountains all over campus. During meals, the dining hall allowed us to fill up water bottles with filtered water and add electrolyte powders.
The coaches also handed out supplemental snacks like protein bars, fruit and electrolyte chews. We never lacked for hydration and fuel during our stay.
Get the Rest Needed to Perform
With a packed camp schedule, rest and recovery was critical. The comfortable dorms made it easy to recharge each night. We also got to sleep in later than usual on off days.
Camp reminded me how proper sleep, nutrition and hydration translate directly into performance gains. Taking care of the basics enabled us to get the most from our training.
Let me know in the comments your favorite healthy fueling tips when training hard!
Meet & Bond with Fellow Lacrosse Lovers From Across the Region
One of my favorite aspects of attending the Ohio State Women’s Lacrosse camp was meeting fellow players who share my passion for the sport. Players from across the Midwest converged, forging new friendships and motivational rivalries.
Being immersed for a week in a community centered around your number one passion is a special experience. The bonds built at camp stay with you long after it ends.
Find Your Tribe
Walking into camp the first day could be intimidating not knowing anyone. But we quickly discovered a built-in tribe of lacrosse junkies. Everyone roamed around with sticks, cradling balls, and challenging each other to tricks.
Mealtimes turned into heated debates over our favorite players and college teams. Free time meant looking for stick work battles or scrimmages. An instant sense of belonging emerged.
Diversity of Players United by Love of Lacrosse
Our group came from different towns, schools, backgrounds, and skill levels. But a shared obsession with lacrosse brought us together instantly. We all had stories of taking a thousand shots in the backyard or playing wall ball until dark.
During downtime, we exchanged training tips, highlights from past seasons, and goals for the upcoming year. Our diverse personalities meshed around lacrosse.
Motivate Each Other to Improve
Pushing each other to get better created great competition and camaraderie. We set challenges like most goals scored or ground balls in a scrimmage. Seeing teammates excel motivated us all to raise our games.
We also bonded through collective struggle, collapsing exhausted after a brutal conditioning workout. Shared adversity builds character. We vowed to encourage each other when camp got tough.
Forge Lasting Friendships and Rivalries
I grew incredibly close with my teammates and cabinmates. We opened up about life, family, and helped each other through homesickness. Some of my best friends today came from that camp.
I also developed great rivalries with talented players from other schools. We battled intensely in scrimmages but respected each other. Pushing myself against them taught me to love competition.
Come Away a More Cohesive Team
Attending camp together as a high school team made us so much closer. Shared stories and inside jokes from our week together carried over into the season and created tight team bonds.
We used the motivation of camp to unify us on tough conditioning days. That cohesiveness powered our success. The Ohio State camp brings people together through lacrosse.
Lacrosse Camps Offer a Well-Rounded Experience On & Off The Field
While improving your lacrosse skills is the primary focus, the Ohio State camp also provides a fun, enriching experience off the field. The perfect blend of competition and recreation creates memories that last a lifetime.
Daytime hours are filled with intense training to maximize your development as a player. But evening and weekends allow for recharging, team bonding, and campus exploration.
Balance Lacrosse Immersion with Fun Downtime Activities
With 9am-5pm camp days, we needed opportunities to unwind and re-energize at night. The coaches organized awesome activities like movie nights, campus pool parties, photo scavenger hunts, and team dinners.
My favorite memories were battle of the bands in the dorm common area, epic dodgeball games, and crazy entertainment during our end-of-camp talent show.
Explore the Ohio State Campus
Being on Ohio State’s enormous campus for the week was an experience in itself. We got to tour iconic places like the Horseshoe football stadium, the basketball arena, and the school museum.
During free time, we checked out campus hot spots like the recreation center, Mirror Lake, cool dining areas and shops. Exploring made me feel like a college student.
Learn Time Management Skills
The jam-packed camp schedule taught us valuable time management skills. Getting proper rest, fueling up, and recovering around intense lacrosse activities prepared us for college life.
We quickly learned how to maximize free time – catching up with friends, enjoying campus, and taking care of responsibilities. Balancing work and fun is a great life lesson.
Build Lasting Memories and Friendships
I created so many incredible memories and inside jokes at camp that strengthened our friendships long-term. From dance parties in the dorms to pull-all-nighters in our rooms, every day brought new adventures.
The bonds I built with teammates and players from other schools during downtime remain some of my closest friendships today. The camp connected us in unforgettable ways.
Come Away a More Well-Rounded Person
The Ohio State camp helped develop us as athletes on the field, while broadening our horizons off it. Exposure to college life, bonding with fellow players, and forming new friendships expanded our worlds.
I came away not just as a better lacrosse player, but more independent, socially confident, and well-rounded. The camp’s blend of activities develops the whole person.
Experience Campus Life at Ohio State University
Beyond improving your lacrosse skills, a huge perk of the Ohio State camp is getting a taste of college life on their gorgeous campus. From exploring iconic landmarks to training like a Buckeye athlete, it’s an immersive experience.
Walking around the massive grounds, interacting with current students, and living the athlete lifestyle gives you a great feel for Ohio State’s culture and community.
Tour the Incredible Campus
Ohio State’s campus in Columbus is like a small city, with amazing architecture, facilities, and landmarks. During free time, we loved checking out spots like:
- Ohio Stadium – the legendary Horseshoe football field
- Jerome Schottenstein Center – the state-of-the-art basketball arena
- The Oval – the campus green space where students congregate
- Mirror Lake – the scenic lake on campus
- RPAC – the enormous recreation center with pools, courts, etc.
Exploring this vibrant campus made me feel like a college kid and get a sense of Ohio State’s culture.
Train Like a Buckeye
A highlight was getting to train in Ohio State’s elite athlete facilities. Their brand new turf fields, locker rooms, training rooms, and gyms are amazing.
We got to lift in their state-of-the-art weight room, condition on their tracks, and utilize recovery equipment like cold tubs. Living a Buckeye athlete’s life for a week was very cool.
Immerse Yourself in College Dorm Life
Staying in Ohio State’s newer athlete dorms was awesome. The suites had comfy beds, lots of space, and great lounges to hang out.
We had fun dorm activities planned like movie nights, game tournaments, pool parties, and pizza gatherings. The week gave us independence and bonded us tightly as teammates.
Eat Like a College Athlete
Fueling up in Ohio State’s dining halls was a great perk. They served endless buffet food to fuel our busy lacrosse schedule. We’d refuel with mountains of eggs, pancakes, protein, carbs, and salad.
The freedom to grab third helpings to recover from training, and the constant access to hydration/nutrition was invaluable. We ate very well!
Get a Feel For College Athletics
Being immersed in the culture of a huge D1 program for a week was an invaluable experience. It demystified college athletics and made it feel achievable through hard work.
I left inspired to keep improving as a player and student to make my goal of competing collegiately a reality. The camp motivated me to reach that next level.
Lacrosse Camps: An Unforgettable Summer Experience
In the years since attending Ohio State Women’s Lacrosse camp, my memories from those incredible summers remain crystal clear. The nonstop excitement and activities create an unforgettable experience.
Between the early mornings and jam-packed days, the week flies by in a flash. But the friendships, laughs, and memories last a lifetime. If you love lacrosse, this camp is a can’t-miss experience.
Make Memories That Last Forever
From dance parties in the dorms to team dinners at the campus pizza joint, our downtime adventures created lifelong memories. I still laugh hysterically reminiscing about inside jokes from camp.
Whether it was bus sing-alongs, epic dodgeball tournaments, or campus explorations, every day brought new memorable moments with my best friends.
Can’t Beat Days Filled With Lacrosse
For lacrosse fanatics like me, being immersed in the sport from morning until evening is a dream come true. My favorite memories were scrimmaging under the lights, showing off stick tricks, and battling in wall ball competitions.
The nonstop lacrosse immersion left me exhausted but fired up to continue improving. I lived for lacrosse 247 that week.
Experience the Thrill of Competition
The elite talent level at camp created great competitions. I vividly remember my midfield matchup with a top prospect who challenged me all week to elevate my game.
Competing against the best pushed me outside my comfort zone and built my confidence when I rose to the occasion. The thrill of competition at camp stuck with me.
Gain Life Lessons
My camps were about more than just lacrosse—the experiences taught me valuable life lessons. Trying new things expanded my comfort zone. Being on my own built independence and confidence.
Making new friends from diverse backgrounds taught the importance of community. I grew as both an athlete and person at camp.
Build Camaraderie and Spirit
The connections and inside jokes built at camp carried over to unite our team during the high school season. That spirit and camaraderie gave us an edge.
We’d reminisce about camp memories during tough practices to lift our energy. Camp knit us together like family with spirit that lasted all season.
Attending Ohio State’s camp was one of the highlights of my youth. The friendships, growth, and memories had an enormous impact that I’ll cherish forever.
Friendly and Supportive Environment for All Skill Levels
One aspect that makes the Ohio State Women’s Lacrosse camp so special is the incredibly supportive environment. Players of all skill levels feel welcomed and empowered to reach their potential.
Rather than a cutthroat intensity, the coaches foster a team-first climate focused on growth and celebrating victories big and small. You can’t help but thrive in such an uplifting atmosphere.
Expert Coaches Build You Up
The Ohio State coaches create a positive culture focused on each athlete’s progress. They take time to get to know your strengths and areas for growth, and celebrate your wins.
Rather than tearing you down for mistakes, they offer constructive tips and drills to build up your skills. The coaches’ sincere encouragement motivated us to keep improving.
Teammates Cheer Each Other On
Beyond the coaches, your teammates are there to lift you up. During wall ball competitions, we’d count each other’s consecutive catches and cheer at new records.
When someone scored a gorgeous goal in scrimmage, we’d mob them with high fives and helmet pats. Seeing your teammates thrive brought such joy and motivation.
Celebrate Small Victories
Ohio State’s camp celebrates growth in all forms, not just the big wins. I remember our team erupting when a new player scooped her first ground ball cleanly.
A midfielder scoring her first goal in scrimmage led to a huge celebration. We recognized each other’s daily improvements and reveled in them.
Team Building Activities Bring Everyone Together
The coaches organized awesome team building activities that bonded us across skill levels. My favorite was an estranged survivor challenge requiring cooperation.
We also did talent shows, scavenger hunts, and group art projects to unite us. Winning and losing together built powerful camaraderie.
Focus on Your Own Progress
I loved that instead of comparing yourself to others, the camp atmosphere focused on maximizing your own potential. Seeing your own daily improvements was incredibly rewarding.
Tuning out distractions let me focus on my growth journey. The supportive community gave me confidence to reach new heights.
Let me know in the comments about positive experiences you’ve had at camps or on teams!
Lacrosse Camps Build Confidence On & Off The Field
Beyond improving your skills, the Ohio State Women’s Lacrosse camp builds confidence that transfers on and off the field. Facing new challenges in a supportive environment encourages campers to break out of their comfort zones.
From practicing assertiveness to bonding with new friends, camp provides growth opportunities that spark self-assurance. Players return standing taller with the poise to take on bigger goals.
Believe in Your Abilities as an Athlete
As camp progresses, players gain faith in their athletic potential. Implementing coaching feedback to succeed in drills and scrimmages proves your capabilities.
Seeing your fitness gains in sprints or vertical leap builds your physical confidence. Goalies blocking that top shooter raises their mental game. You return a believer in your talent.
Gain Independence and Self-Reliance
For many players, camp is their first time away from home for an extended period. Learning to manage yourself in a new environment builds self-reliance.
From navigating a huge campus to reminding yourself to eat, you develop independence and problem-solving skills. The experience expands your comfort zone.
Bond with Peers and Make New Friends
Meeting talented peers from across the region helps campers come out of their shells socially. The inclusive community enables forming fast friendships.
Laughing together through struggles and inside jokes bonds teammates tightly. Putting yourself out there forges new supportive relationships.
Practice Self-Advocacy
The camp environment provides a safe space to find your voice. Speaking up about a schedule conflict or pursuing playing time encouragement assertiveness.
Advocating for yourself in a positive way is a valuable life skill. Camp gives you a taste of adulthood in an understanding setting.
Take Healthy Risks
Trying new things expands your perspective. I built confidence kayaking for the first time on a team outing. Others courageously auditioned for the talent show.
Pushing past fears helps you understand abilities. Camp’s supportive community gives you the safety net to take risks and grow.
Return Ready for Bigger Challenges
The Ohio State camp prepares you to handle new adventures ahead, whether it’s high school sports, college, or life in general. Gaining self-reliance helps you spread your wings.
By instilling self-belief and life skills, the camp experience equips you to pursue your goals boldly. The personal growth lasts long after camp.
Sign Up Today for an Amazing Lacrosse Camp in Columbus, Ohio
If you’re a lacrosse player looking to take your game to the next level this summer, be sure to check out the lacrosse camps offered by Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio. As one of the top collegiate lacrosse programs in the country, Ohio State offers elite instruction and facilities to help you improve your skills and get recruited at their week-long day and overnight camps.
Led by the Ohio State coaching staff, including head coaches Liza Kelly (women’s) and Nick Myers (men’s), these lacrosse camps provide an amazing opportunity to learn from some of the best in the sport. Both the women’s and men’s teams are frequent NCAA tournament contenders and have produced dozens of All-Americans and professional players.
Through intense training, position-specific drills, scrimmages, and video analysis, the coaches will work closely with you to take your game to new heights. You’ll also get a chance to interact with and learn from current Buckeye players – getting a firsthand perspective on what it takes to become a top college lacrosse athlete.
The facilities you’ll be using are second-to-none. The Woody Hayes Athletic Center features turf fields, top-notch equipment, team meeting rooms, training rooms, and strength and conditioning facilities. And you’ll get to stay in student dorms on the Ohio State campus, experiencing life as a student-athlete.
These aren’t just skills camps either – they are designed to get you noticed by college recruiting coaches. The camps include coach evaluations and recruiting seminars to give you strategies to get recruited at the next level. The coaches have helped hundreds of past camp participants go on to play lacrosse collegiately.
Some of the key details of Ohio State’s lacrosse camps:
- Offered for boys aged 10-18 and girls aged 12-18
- Day camps available as well as overnight camps
- All positions and skill levels welcome
- Typically held in June and July each summer
- Learn skills, strategies, and techniques from Division 1 coaches and players
- Get evaluated and recruited by college coaches
Past participants have raved about the positive, motivational environment at Ohio State lacrosse camps. The coaches are determined to help each player improve through personalized instruction, no matter their skill level. You’ll leave the camp with more confidence, new skills, knowledge of what college coaches look for, and motivation to keep excelling.
The cost of the camps is very reasonable given the first-rate instruction and facilities. There are team discounts available as well. Transportation and meals are available for overnight campers.
Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to take your lacrosse game to elite levels! Use the skills you gain at Ohio State’s lacrosse camps to dominate the upcoming season and get recruited to play in college. Sign up today to reserve your spot – these camps fill up fast!