The Must Haves Essential Lacrosse Balls For The Novice Player And Coach

The Must Haves Essential Lacrosse Balls For The Novice Player And Coach

Start With The Basics – Pick Up A Bag Of Used Practice Balls

When just starting out in lacrosse, either as a young player or a new coach, it’s smart not to invest heavily in brand new equipment right away. Used practice balls provide a cost-effective option to start building up your training supplies. Check local classified ads or shops for deals on bags of balls that have been gently used. While these balls may show some signs of wear, they’ll still work great for drills and practice. The savings allow you to acquire a decent quantity without breaking the bank.

Many youth and high school teams often sell or give away their old practice balls at the end of a season. By offering to take a batch off their hands, you can score balls on the cheap while helping out a local team. Just inspect for excessive cracking or large chunks missing before purchasing. Minor scuffs are no big deal for training use. If the ball still has a decent weight and bounces true, it will serve its purpose.

You can also find lots of affordable used balls for sale on sites like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace. Watch for parents unloading their kids’ outgrown equipment or clearing out the garage. Take time to meet in person and examine each ball before buying. Check for good rebound and uniform shape. By taking home a bag of balls showing only normal wear, you’ll have all you need for drills and wall ball practice at a fraction of retail cost.

Starting out with used balls allows you to build skills without a major investment. Once you progress in the sport, you can then upgrade to newer, pricier models. But at the novice stage, pre-owned practice balls give you everything you need to hone fundamentals, all while enjoying big savings. It’s the strategic first step on the road to lacrosse mastery.

Choose White Balls For Greater Visibility During Drills

When selecting lacrosse balls for practice and training drills, white balls offer key advantages compared to the traditional yellow game ball. The brighter white color stands out clearly against grass, turf or any background. This enhances visibility for players learning catching, scooping, passing and other fundamental skills.

Being able to see the ball more clearly benefits players of all ages and abilities. But it’s especially helpful for beginning youth players just learning the sport. White lacrosse balls allow coaches to run drills where players can track the ball better. Whether doing simple catching and tossing or fast-paced passing patterns, the high visibility aids hand-eye coordination.

For example, white balls make overhead drills like “3-man weave” easier by letting players keep the ball in sight as it moves down the line. Defensive drills also benefit, with players able to follow and intercept passes more readily. As players work to perfect checking and poke blocking technique, clearly seeing each ball improves their development.

White lacrosse balls also give players better visual cues during shooting, scooping and cradling drills. Seeing the release point and rotation on a shot helps diagnose mechanics issues. Following the ball path from a scoop or cradle reveals where hand positioning needs work. For goalies, white balls stand out against pads and turf, aiding in seeing shots to save.

By getting white practice balls instead of traditional yellow game balls, coaches help accelerate skill development. The bright color provides instant visual feedback to reinforce proper technique. And being able to track balls more easily instills confidence in beginners. White balls build fundamentals faster thanks to their unmatched visibility. They’re an inexpensive but valuable training tool.

Consider Purchasing Custom Printed Balls In Team Colors

One unique option when buying lacrosse balls for your team is to get custom printed designs in your team colors. Having your logo and mascot printed right on the balls promotes team spirit while adding a touch of flair to practices and drills. It’s an easy way to get your program noticed.

Most sporting goods equipment suppliers now offer custom lacrosse ball printing services. You simply provide the artwork and color scheme you want applied to the balls. Digital printing technology allows for full color logos, names, slogans and more to be imprinted on the balls for a bold, vibrant effect.

Printed balls make great keepsake gifts for graduating players and coaches. Consider ordering a batch with “Class of 2023” or similar sentiment for seniors to take home after their last season. The memorable balls will become prized possessions.

For youth teams and clubs, printed balls also provide a handy way to identify equipment. Having each player’s assigned practice ball printed with their name, number or initials helps avoid mix-ups. It also teaches young players responsibility and equipment care when they each have their own designated ball.

While cost is typically higher per ball compared to blank white models, the ability to imprint custom designs makes printed balls worth considering. Shop around between companies and request price quotes. Order larger volumes to help lower the per-unit cost. With themed artwork and colors that showcase your program, printed lacrosse balls deliver team spirit and a customized touch that players will appreciate.

Opt For Soft Balls For Beginning Youth Players

When starting out young kids in lacrosse for the first time, selecting softer balls can make a big difference in their enjoyment and developing stick skills. Regular game balls are dense solid rubber and can really sting small hands on catches. Soft lacrosse balls provide a gentler, more confidence-building experience.

Made from soft flexible materials like foam or tennis ball fabric, soft lacrosse balls have a spongy feel. They compress in the stick head when caught, greatly reducing sting. Shots and passes have a “pillowy” sensation too. This helps young players learn proper form without fear of pain from a hard catch.

Soft balls build receptiveness and ability quicker by taking away the intimidation factor. Kids can focus on developing coordination and technique rather than flinching. With less sting to worry about, they gain assurance trying cradling, scooping and passing drills. Catching becomes enjoyable rather than scary.

The lightweight nature of soft balls also helps small hands and arms handle longer practice sessions without fatiguing. Lighter balls translate to faster throws as well, helping youngsters have success sooner. And the vivid colors like neon pink or purple provide excellent visibility for tracking balls in motion.

While advanced high school and college players need regulation rigid balls for competition, soft balls have tremendous training value for youth. By instilling confidence and allowing more repetitions with less pain, they give young beginners the best chance for progressing skills that will serve them throughout playing career. Any coach serious about developing the next generation of talent should have an arsenal of soft lacrosse balls ready.

Invest In “No Bounce” Balls For Safer Indoor Training

Standard lacrosse balls bounce unpredictably when used for indoor drills, potentially causing damage or injury. For safer indoor training, specialized “no bounce” balls eliminate this risk while still providing a realistic feel for developing skills.

“No bounce” lacrosse balls contain a weighted fluid filler instead of solid rubber. When thrown or dropped on hard indoor surfaces, the fluid absorbs impact energy so the ball doesn’t rebound. It simply lands with a harmless thud.

This allows full-intensity indoor drills without worry of errant balls breaking lights or windows. Players can focus on executing drills properly instead of timidly underthrowing. Passing and shooting drills develop sharper instincts without fear of wild ricochets.

Beyond protecting facilities, “no bounce” balls also prevent player injuries from chasing and tripping over runaway balls. Defensive drills like poke checking and stick checking are safer, as balls harmlessly die at the point of contact. Goalies also appreciate the balls sticking after saves instead of bouncing past.

While fluid-filled “no bounce” balls may feel slightly different at first, players quickly adapt during drills. The performance tradeoff is well worth the safety and convenience indoors. And by training at full speed, reaction skills improve faster. For coaches maximizing practice time in the offseason, safe “no bounce” balls are essential equipment.

Get NCAA Regulation Game Balls For True Competition Prep

As players reach high school and college level lacrosse, training and competing with regulation NCAA balls is critical. The official game balls used at the highest levels feature quality materials and consistency to take your team’s preparation to the next level.

NCAA lacrosse balls contain top-grade rubber compounds for ideal rebound resilience and all-weather durability. They hold shape and maintain a precise weight-to-diameter ratio even through rough collegiate play. The pebbled exterior texture also provides excellent handling and consistent grip.

Beyond material standards, NCAA balls deliver unmatched uniformity for developing precision passing and shooting. Each ball has virtually identical bounciness, ensuring properly executed fundamentals translate directly to game performance. Players learn proper mechanics and timing using the same balls as tournament and championship play.

For goalies, facing regulation balls improves reaction skills, hand-eye coordination and confidence. Mastering rebound control and outlet passing with NCAA balls builds next-level readiness. Defensive players benefit similarly through realistic poke check and ground ball drills.

Ultimately, training with regulation balls reinforces muscle memory and skills that fully translate into college gameplay. Coaches preparing athletes for performing under pressure absolutely need an ample supply of NCAA balls. They allow teams to practice college-level lacrosse, even during the offseason or in limited spaces. The balls may cost more but deliver a premium competitive edge.

Source Lacrosse Balls In Bulk For Cost Savings

With lacrosse being such an equipment-intensive sport, sourcing balls in bulk quantity helps teams and programs stretch budgets while ensuring ample practice resources. Bulk pricing allows you to stock up on balls at discounted per-unit costs, saving significantly compared to buying dozen packs at retail.

Look for suppliers that allow mix-and-match bulk ordering so you can acquire the specific models you need. Order quantities like 60, 72, 120 or even 200 balls to maximize savings. Prioritize the balls you use most for drills and training sessions in greater numbers, then supplement with specialty balls as needed.

Take advantage of free shipping thresholds when buying bulk. Look for deals like “free shipping on 100+ balls” to avoid paying extra delivery fees. Saving on shipping allows you to invest even more into extra balls for your program.

Consider pooling bulk orders with other teams or groups in your lacrosse association to boost volume discounts. You can then split quantities across multiple organizations once the large combined order arrives. This helps extend savings while building community.

With proper storage, extra balls purchased in bulk will remain fresh for multiple seasons, offering an ongoing return on investment. Always inspect new bulk balls for defects and contact suppliers promptly with any issues. But overall, buying lacrosse balls in quantity is the best way to maximize value while keeping your team well equipped.

Compare Prices Online To Find The Best Deals

With the wide range of lacrosse ball types, brands and models available, comparing prices online is a valuable tactic for finding the best deals. Online research allows you to shop broad selection of balls while maximizing savings.

Search websites of major sporting goods retailers as well as specialty lacrosse shops to compile pricing options. Look for sites that offer sorting filters, advanced search options and price comparisons to streamline research. Sign up for email lists to receive promotional discounts and sale alerts.

Take time to compare not just direct pricing but also factoring in shipping costs, bulk order discounts and return policies. Some retailers may have a higher base price but offer free shipping above a certain order value. Weigh options carefully based on your specific order needs.

Browsing clearance sections can uncover major savings on leftover inventory like last year’s models or unusual colors. Sort price low-to-high and watch for extra percentage discounts applied at checkout. Being flexible on colors and non-essential features opens up more budget-friendly options.

With a little legwork, comparing options across multiple websites makes finding the best lacrosse ball deals simple. Savvy online shopping tactics will help you equip your team while maximizing value. Do your research and the savings will add up through the season and beyond.

Look For Discounted Overstock Or “Factory Seconds”

An insider tip for saving on lacrosse balls is to look for overrun stock and “factory seconds” offered at a discount. While not flawless, these budget balls are totally usable for training and practice purposes.

Overstock results from manufacturers exceeding orders and having excess inventory build up. Rather than holding stock for years, they offer overrun balls in bulk at clearance prices just to sell. Minor cosmetic flaws may be present but performance is unaffected.

“Factory seconds” refer to balls that failed quality control inspection for non-critical defects. This may be something like inconsistentlogoprinting or a small color variance from batch to batch. Again, these balls are fully functional but simply sold at a discount due to minor imperfections.

Both overrun stock and factory seconds provide big savings compared to retail pricing on first-quality balls. The compromise on looks is negligible for practice use. Coaches should have no qualms using discounted balls for drills, scrimmages and training.

Search for specials on overstock and factory seconds from major suppliers and clearance retailers. Expect to buy large quantities in bulk packaging, but the per-unit price will be compelling. Just take time to inspect balls upon delivery. Then enjoy the savings while elevating your team’s skills throughout the season.

Pick Durable All-Weather Balls For Outdoor Use

For teams and players regularly practicing on grass or turf fields, selecting lacrosse balls engineered for all-weather durability ensures quality even through heavy use. Rugged exterior shells withstand sun, rain and dirt while maintaining true flight and handling.

Look for balls touting UV-resistant shells formulated to retain shape and bounce even after prolonged sun exposure. UV light can damage some rubber compounds, causing balls to go flat prematurely. A UV-resistant coating prevents this issue.

Opt for balls with pebbled or textured shell patterns, which maintain a more consistent grip when wet versus smooth rubber shells. The pebbling helps balls release cleanly from stick heads in rain or on damp grass. Thicker shells also better withstand minor nicks and scuffs from turf friction.

While ordinary recreational balls work fine for indoor drills, only all-weather models have the durable exteriors to handle full-contact, full-speed play outdoors over a whole season or more. A few extra dollars upfront for premium rugged balls saves the cost of continually replacing cheaper models.

Serious lacrosse players practicing and competing year-round need gear built to last. Investing in quality all-weather balls ensures your practice sessions won’t get rained out and your equipment costs stay under budget even through harsh conditions.

Select Softer Balls To Reduce Sting For Handling Drills

Developing elite lacrosse stick handling requires repetition to build muscle memory. Using softer balls reduces sting to hands, allowing longer practice without pain while still sharpening coordination.

Made from pliable materials like foam or tennis ball fabric instead of rigid rubber, soft lacrosse balls compress in the head when caught. This greatly lessens the snap against palms and fingers, enabling more time perfecting cradles, quick sticks and scooping without hurting hands.

Softer balls are ideal for solo wall ball sessions where players need to handle catching their own rebounds. The gentle feel allows extending the workout to develop quicker reflexes and endurance without swelling or bruising.

For young players just learning stick skills, soft balls build confidence. Reduced impact from catches eliminates flinching, helping beginners progress faster. Experienced players also appreciate the break from battering hands take with standard balls during handling reps.

While real game situations require standard rigid balls, soft balls have a proven training purpose. Spending more time honing stick work without pain leads to quicker mastery. Handling drills develop the fastest touch and tightest technique with soft balls removing the hand-punishing factor.

Buy Balls With Excellent Grip To Hone Cradling Skills

Cradling is the fundamental skill allowing lacrosse players to transport the ball fluidly on the run. Optimizing grip and handling requires balls with quality pebbled or textured cover materials that interact naturally with stick heads.

Look for balls with cover treatments like Duragrip or Aquagrip that provide a “tackiness” for controlled release from scoops yet clean quick-stick passes. The pebbled exterior secures firmly in heads without excess friction hindering motion. This builds cradle muscle memory.

Superior grip also enhances developing stick tricks and one-handed cradling ability. Players gain confidence trying advanced techniques knowing the ball sticks in the pocket, not slipping out errantly. Drills progress faster and translates better on-field.

Consistency is key for proper cradling development. Quality lacrosse balls maintain precise, uniform exterior grip throughout use rather than wearing smooth. This allows players to detect small flaws in form based on handling cues. Consistent grip equals consistent player feedback.

While necessities like bounce and durability get attention, grip is an underrated ball quality for excelling at lacrosse. By providing ideal friction for cradling without impeding ball flow, premium gripped balls help elevate handling skills exponentially.

Choose Contrasting Color Balls For Passing Drills

Sharpening lacrosse passing accuracy and technique relies on players’ ability to clearly track balls in motion. Using balls in colors contrasting from stick heads and gloves improves visibility for more productive drills.

Opaque white balls stand out boldly against most stick colors, allowing easy ball tracking on all passes, catches and cradles. Passes connect more reliably when receivers can pick up ball flight sooner after release. Vision and coordination improve together.

Alternate colors like yellow, orange and green balls also provide high visibility from sticks and gloves. Mixing up colors during passing, two-man and three-man weave drills adds fun while honing skills. Coaches can quickly diagnose issues by watching ball path and rotation.

Consider using one color for ground balls and another for flied passes to ingrain proper pickup form based on ball visibility. Defensive checks and poke blocking also benefit from seeing stick placement and timing against brightly colored balls.

While game balls are traditionally yellow, white and other colors optimize drills by highlighting ball location and motion. Enhanced visibility equals more reps, faster skill improvement and more enjoyment in practice. Visually tracking every pass, catch and ground ball is the first step to eventually making them all second nature.

Consider “Smart” Balls With Embedded Sensors To Track Performance

Modern “smart” lacrosse balls containing embedded sensors provide exciting new possibilities for skills training by recording quantitative performance data during drills and practice.

Using Bluetooth connectivity, smart lacrosse balls sync to phones and tablets to track key metrics like throw speed, rotation rate, exit angle and more. This generates insights for optimizing mechanics. Players receive instant feedback on each rep to self-diagnose issues and improve.

Some smart balls contain complex motion-tracking sensors while simpler models just record basic speed. Look for balls with accompanying mobile apps that compile stats, progress charts and tips tailored to your training goals. Data visibility accelerates skill refinement.

For goalies, smart balls can quantify save technique by measuring ball speed, angle of incidence and rebound control. Reaction time, footwork and positioning all benefit from drill metrics. Shooting accuracy improves for all players with exact speed and rotation feedback.

Though more expensive than standard balls, smart balls provide objective, immediate performance measures that no coach’s eye alone can match. The instant feedback transforms repetitive drills into engaging, tangible skill progression. If within budget, smart balls are a worthy investment.

Invest In Quality Balls Approved For High School & College Play

Reaching elite lacrosse levels requires training and competing with the same regulation balls used in high school and college play. Investing in quality approved models ensures ideal performance and seamless skills translation.

Look for balls meeting key standards like NCAA or NFHS approval for bounce, size and durability. Premium materials like top-grade solid rubber with grippy pebbled shells withstand tough play. Consistent weight and resilience improves passing and shot mechanics.

Regulation balls optimally grip sticks for tenacious cradling and smooth scooping. Textured cover treatments enhance control and quick-stick handling. Excellent flight characteristics aid receiver tracking for crisp catches.

Training with regulation balls ingrains proper technique by mirroring competitive conditions. The fit, grip and handling mirrors game balls so players’ skills directly transfer during tournaments. Goalies also need realistic balls to hone saves reacting to unpredictable bounce.

While costing more than recreational balls, regulation models approved for top play provide a sound value by enabling next-level skills progression. Developing players’ potential requires the highest quality balls supporting elite skills and instincts. Treat it as an athletic investment.