How can you showcase your lacrosse skills to D1 coaches. What are the most effective ways to contact college recruiters. Why is creating a standout highlight video crucial for recruitment. How can you leverage camps and tournaments to get noticed.

Showcasing Your Lacrosse Skills: The Gateway to D1 Recruitment

Aspiring to play Division 1 lacrosse requires more than just talent; it demands a strategic approach to getting noticed by top-tier coaches. The journey to D1 recruitment is paved with opportunities to showcase your skills, and knowing how to leverage these chances can make all the difference.

The Power of Prospect Camps

Prospect camps are a goldmine for aspiring D1 athletes. These events, often hosted by specific college programs, provide a direct line to coaches who are actively scouting talent. But how do you make the most of these opportunities?

• Bring your A-game: Coaches are watching every move, so perform at your peak.
• Show versatility: Demonstrate a range of skills beyond your primary position.
• Engage with coaches: Ask thoughtful questions about their program and philosophy.

Are prospect camps worth the investment? Absolutely. They offer unparalleled exposure and the chance to impress coaches in person, potentially fast-tracking your recruitment process.

Leveraging Recruiting Sites for Maximum Visibility

In the digital age, online presence is crucial. Recruiting sites like NCSA and BeRecruited serve as virtual showcases for your talents. How can you optimize your profile?

• Keep information current: Regularly update your stats, achievements, and contact details.
• Highlight academic prowess: D1 programs value well-rounded athletes.
• Include a compelling bio: Craft a narrative that sets you apart from other prospects.

Can a well-crafted online profile really make a difference? Indeed. Many D1 coaches use these platforms as initial screening tools, making them an essential part of your recruitment strategy.

Crafting the Perfect Highlight Video: Your Visual Résumé

In the competitive world of D1 lacrosse recruitment, your highlight video can be the difference-maker. It’s your chance to show coaches what you’re capable of, even if they can’t see you play in person.

Key Elements of a Standout Highlight Reel

What should your highlight video include to catch a coach’s eye?

1. Showcase diversity: Include a variety of plays that demonstrate your versatility.
2. Quality over quantity: Focus on your best 5-10 minutes of gameplay.
3. Demonstrate lacrosse IQ: Include clips that show your strategic thinking and field awareness.
4. Highlight speed and athleticism: D1 programs value players who can keep up with the fast pace of the game.

Is it necessary to hire a professional editor? While professional editing can enhance your video, authenticity is key. Coaches are more interested in your skills than production value.

Maximizing Exposure: The Role of Tournaments and Prospect Days

Tournaments and prospect days are prime opportunities to showcase your skills in a competitive environment. How can you make the most of these events?

Strategies for Tournament Success

• Research attending coaches: Know who’s watching and tailor your play accordingly.
• Consistency is key: Maintain high performance throughout the tournament, not just in key games.
• Show leadership: Coaches value players who can rally their team and demonstrate maturity on and off the field.

Do coaches really pay attention to every player at these events? While they can’t focus on everyone, standout performances rarely go unnoticed. Your goal is to be that standout player.

Making an Impact at Prospect Days

Prospect days offer a unique chance to experience a specific program and impress its coaches. How can you leave a lasting impression?

• Arrive prepared: Know the program’s style of play and be ready to adapt.
• Engage actively: Participate enthusiastically in all drills and scrimmages.
• Network smartly: Connect with current players and staff to gain insights into the program.

Can a single prospect day determine your recruitment chances? While it’s not the only factor, a strong showing can significantly boost your prospects with that program.

The Art of Coach Communication: Building Relationships for Recruitment

Effective communication with college coaches is a crucial aspect of the recruitment process. How can you ensure your outreach is both impactful and appropriate?

Crafting the Perfect Introduction Email

Your initial contact with a coach can set the tone for your entire recruitment journey. What elements should your introduction email include?

• Clear subject line: Include your graduation year, position, and a key achievement.
• Concise body: Highlight your academic and athletic achievements succinctly.
• Personal touch: Explain why you’re interested in their specific program.
• Call to action: Request a follow-up conversation or provide your upcoming game schedule.

Is it better to email or call coaches directly? While email is generally preferred for initial contact, be prepared to follow up with a call if invited to do so.

Maintaining Consistent Communication

Recruitment is an ongoing process. How can you keep coaches engaged without being overbearing?

• Regular updates: Share new achievements, improved stats, or academic progress.
• Thoughtful follow-ups: After tournaments or camps, provide a brief recap of your performance.
• Respect boundaries: Be persistent but understand that coaches have busy schedules.

How often should you reach out to coaches? Aim for meaningful contact every 3-4 weeks, unless they’ve provided specific instructions.

Leveraging Social Media in Your Recruitment Journey

In today’s digital age, social media can be a powerful tool in your recruitment arsenal. How can you use platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn to your advantage?

Building a Professional Online Presence

• Curate your content: Ensure your posts reflect positively on your character and aspirations.
• Engage with programs: Follow and interact with lacrosse programs you’re interested in.
• Share achievements: Post updates about your lacrosse journey, but avoid oversharing.

Can coaches really find you through social media? Absolutely. Many coaches use social platforms to gain insights into potential recruits’ personalities and interests.

Navigating the Do’s and Don’ts of Social Media

While social media can boost your visibility, it can also hinder your chances if misused. What are some key guidelines to follow?

• Think before posting: Consider how each post might be perceived by coaches and recruiters.
• Maintain privacy: Be cautious about sharing personal information or location details.
• Stay positive: Avoid negative comments about teammates, opponents, or coaches.

Should you create separate accounts for recruitment purposes? While not necessary, having a dedicated lacrosse account can help you maintain a focused, professional image.

Academic Excellence: The Often Overlooked Recruitment Factor

While athletic prowess is crucial, academic performance plays a significant role in D1 recruitment. How can you leverage your academic achievements to stand out?

Balancing Athletics and Academics

• Maintain a competitive GPA: Aim for a GPA that meets or exceeds the average for your target schools.
• Challenge yourself: Take advanced courses to demonstrate your academic capabilities.
• Standardized test preparation: Invest time in SAT or ACT prep to achieve competitive scores.

Do D1 programs really care about academics? Absolutely. Strong academic performance not only increases your chances of admission but also opens doors to academic scholarships.

Showcasing Academic Achievements in Your Recruitment Profile

How can you effectively highlight your academic strengths to coaches?

• Include academic honors: Mention any academic awards or recognition in your profile.
• Highlight relevant coursework: Emphasize classes that demonstrate skills valuable to student-athletes, such as time management or leadership.
• Discuss academic goals: Share your academic aspirations alongside your athletic ones.

Can strong academics compensate for slightly lower athletic performance? In many cases, yes. Coaches value well-rounded individuals who can succeed both on the field and in the classroom.

The Importance of Character and Leadership in D1 Recruitment

While skills and academics are crucial, D1 coaches also seek players with strong character and leadership potential. How can you demonstrate these qualities during the recruitment process?

Showcasing Leadership On and Off the Field

• Team captain experience: Highlight any leadership roles you’ve held in your lacrosse career.
• Community involvement: Discuss volunteer work or community service projects you’ve participated in.
• Mentorship: Share experiences of helping younger players or contributing to team culture.

Do coaches really care about off-field activities? Absolutely. These experiences demonstrate your ability to contribute positively to their program beyond just your playing skills.

Demonstrating Character Through Actions

How can you show coaches that you have the character they’re looking for?

• Sportsmanship: Always display respect for opponents, officials, and teammates.
• Coachability: Show your willingness to learn and adapt during camps and prospect days.
• Resilience: Demonstrate how you handle challenges and setbacks in your lacrosse journey.

Can character make up for slightly lower skill levels? In many cases, yes. Coaches often prefer coachable players with strong character over more skilled players who might be difficult to work with.

As you navigate the complex world of D1 lacrosse recruitment, remember that it’s not just about your skills on the field. It’s about presenting a complete package – athletic talent, academic prowess, strong character, and leadership potential. By following these tips and consistently putting your best foot forward, you’ll significantly increase your chances of catching the eye of D1 coaches and securing your spot on a top-tier team.

Showcase Lacrosse Skills at Camps and Tournaments

Every lacrosse player dreams of playing at the Division 1 collegiate level. Getting recruited by top D1 programs requires hard work on and off the field. Showcasing your skills and talents at camps, tournaments, and recruiting showcases is essential for getting on college coaches’ radars.

Here are 15 tips to help you stand out and get recruited for D1 lacrosse:

1. Attend prospect camps

Attending prospect camps hosted by specific college programs allows you to showcase skills directly to the coaches of that team. Coaches use these camps to evaluate and identify players they may want to recruit. Bring your A-game and competitive spirit to these camps to get noticed.

2. Register with recruiting sites

Create profiles on lacrosse recruiting sites like NCSA or BeRecruited. Upload highlight videos, stats, academic info, and contact details to get exposure. D1 coaches search these sites to find potential recruits, so having an updated profile is a must.

3. Compile highlight videos

Coaches want to see your skills and gameplay in action. Create a 5-10 minute highlight reel of your best plays from games and tournaments to share with college coaches. Show off your speed, scoring ability, field vision, and lacrosse IQ in the video.

4. Attend prospect days

Take part in prospect days hosted by D1 lacrosse programs you’re interested in. These on-campus events allow coaches to evaluate you in drills and scrimmages. Connect with the coaches and ask questions to show your genuine interest.

5. Compete in summer/fall tournaments

burning his hands on the ball. Tony looked sharply. Fake the ball to the left and pull it back right. We’ve fallen for it too many times.

Contact College Coaches Directly

Making direct contact with college lacrosse coaches is one of the most effective ways to get on their recruiting radar. Don’t wait for them to find you – be proactive and reach out yourself.

Here are some tips for contacting D1 coaches:

Introduce yourself

Send coaches a proper introduction email. Include your graduation year, position(s), club team, highlight video link, and any lacrosse accolades or awards. Let them know you’re interested in their program and ask if they have time to talk more.

Target schools

Focus on colleges that are a good fit athletically and academically. Research the program, understand their style of play and recruiting needs. Tailor your outreach to schools where you can envision yourself.

Share your schedule

Provide coaches with your tournament and showcase schedule so they know where they can see you play in person. Give dates, locations, and jersey numbers. Follow up with impressions after events.

Be persistent

Don’t get discouraged if coaches don’t respond right away. Follow up politely if you don’t hear back within 2 weeks. Build and nurture the relationship over time.

Follow up

After tournaments, camps, or unofficial visits, send coaches updates. Remind them who you are and share a few performance highlights. Show you’re interested.

Provide new materials

Send updated highlight reels, stats, or academic info periodically to keep coaches engaged and show your progression.

Express genuine interest

Let coaches know why you’re interested in their specific program, not just recruiting you. Flattery can help, but be sincere. Know the school’s values and culture.

Be professional

All communications with coaches should be professional. Proper grammar, punctuation, and politeness leave a good impression.

Communicate consistently

Touch base with coaches regularly via email or handwritten notes. Build rapport and keep yourself top of mind without being annoying.

Ask about the process

Inquire about their recruiting approach and timeline. See if you can get feedback on where you stand or how to improve your chances.

Meet at events

Introduce yourself to coaches in person at tournaments and camps. Put a face to your name and make a connection.

Say thank you

Always thank coaches for their time and consideration, even if it doesn’t work out. These relationships matter.

With persistent yet professional outreach, you can get D1 coaches to notice you. Just remember – you’re recruiting them as much as they’re recruiting you. Find the right lacrosse program fit for your goals and skills.

Create Recruiting Video Highlights

One of the most important tools for getting recruited to play D1 lacrosse is a quality highlight video. Coaches want to see your skills and abilities in action before committing to recruit you.

Follow these tips for making a stellar recruiting video that wows coaches:

Showcase your strengths

The video should highlight your lacrosse strengths and skills. For attackers, show shooting, dodging, feeding abilities. Middies demonstrate transition play, speed, athleticism. Defenders display footwork, positioning, communication.

Use game film

Game footage shows how you perform in real match situations. Use clips of goals, assists, tough defense, transition plays from games.

Include multiple angles

Use shots from the sideline, endline and behind the play. Varying angles give coaches a more complete picture of your overall game.

Keep it short

Your video should be 5-10 minutes long max. Coaches have limited time – keep it concise. Show only your best highlights.

Add graphics

Insert graphics with your name, number, stats leaders, awards. This gives helpful context for coaches evaluating you.

Provide stats & metrics

Include on-screen text with relevant stats like goals, assists, ground balls, shooting percentage. Quantifiable data complements the highlights.

Highlight academics

Briefly feature academic achievements, test scores, GPA to show you’re a strong student-athlete.

Use upbeat music

An energetic soundtrack adds excitement to the video. Find motivating tunes aligned with lacrosse’s fast pace.

Get feedback from coaches

Ask club or high school coaches to review your video. Incorporate their suggestions to create the best possible final cut.

Update regularly

Refresh your reel each season to showcase new skills. Coaches want to see progress over time.

Share online & directly

Post your video on lacrosse recruiting sites and YouTube. Also email direct links to college coaches.

Show personality

Include some clips that reveal your lacrosse IQ, competitiveness, leadership abilities on the field.

Strong editing

Invest time to tightly edit clips together into a cohesive, engaging highlight reel.

Check audio levels

Make sure game audio is balanced with your music track. Coaches should hear pads hitting.

With a polished, entertaining highlight video that displays your lacrosse skills and passion, you can catch the eye of D1 coaches looking for talent. Just be sure to put in the production work to make it shine.

Participate on Elite Club Teams

Playing for a top tier club lacrosse team puts you in front of the most college coaches and provides maximum exposure to get recruited. The level of competition and talents surrounding you elevate your game.

Here’s how joining an elite club program can help you get noticed by D1 coaches:

Higher profile tournaments

Elite clubs attend the highest profile recruiting tournaments like Maverik Showtime and the Adrenaline Black Card High Rollers event. Top college coaches scout these tournaments for prospects.

Talented teammates

You’ll practice and play with other high level committed athletes. Surrounding yourself with talent pushes you to raise your game.

Increased competition

Matching up against top teams and players gets you ready for the next level. The pressure prepares you for college lacrosse.

Exposure to coaches

Coaching connections help draw D1 coaches to watch club games and tournaments. You get more opportunities to display skills.

Reputation & pedigree

A program’s track record for developing and placing players shows coaches you come from a winning culture.

Play year-round

Elite clubs practice and compete nearly year-round, so you develop quicker. Volume of quality reps is key.

High level training

Experienced, proven coaches will push you out of your comfort zone. You’ll improve weaknesses working on the right things.

Play different positions

Club teams may move you around to build skills. Becoming a well-rounded player makes you more appealing to recruit.

Travel regionally

Traveling for top regional tournaments gets exposure to coaches outside your area who don’t know you.

Advanced competition

Playing elite club teams is the best simulation of collegiate level lacrosse in speed and physicality.

Alumni connections

Club alumni at various colleges provide insight into those programs from student-athlete perspective.

Joining established, respected club lacrosse programs gives you your best shot at being seen and recruited by D1 coaches. Just be ready to work hard and make sacrifices to reach the next level.

Attend Prospect Days and Campus Visits

Visiting the campuses of colleges you’re interested in is hugely beneficial for getting recruited to play lacrosse. Prospect days and unofficial visits allow you to get direct access to coaches and see if the school is a good fit.

Here are tips for making the most of prospect days and campus visits:

Schedule ahead of time

Contact college coaches well in advance to set up dates for prospect days or tours. These events fill up quickly, so plan ahead.

Arrive early

Get to the school in time to warm up, get your bearings and feel comfortable. You want to be settled in and focused before interacting with coaches.

Meet the coaches

Introduce yourself, make eye contact and shake hands firmly. Remind them who you are and key info about your game.

Ask questions

Have thoughtful questions ready about their program, school, playing style, academic offerings, etc. Show your interest.

Take notes

Jot down coaches’ responses, advice and impressions after talking with them. Review later and follow up.

Observe drills

Watch how they run drills and provide instruction. Does their coaching style mesh with how you learn?

Talk with players

Get player perspectives on team culture, practices, academics, social life. Gain insider info.

Picture yourself there

Visualize yourself as part of the team on that field and campus. Does it feel like a place you can call home?

Play your game

In workouts and scrimmages, focus on displaying your talents, not trying to impress. Stick to what you do best.

Highlight academics

Discuss your academic goals and interests with coaches and admissions staff. Show you’re a serious student.

Send follow-up notes

After visiting, send handwritten thank you notes to reaffirm your interest in their program.

Evaluate afterwards

Debrief with family on pros/cons of the program and how it felt. Rank your options.

Stay disciplined

Stick to nutrition and sleep routines when traveling for visits. Performing your best matters.

Attending prospect days and touring campuses takes your recruitment to the next level. You get quality face time with coaches to deepen connections and evaluate fit.

Get Exposure on Recruiting Websites

Creating and updating profiles on lacrosse recruiting sites gives players tremendous exposure to college coaches searching for prospects. Take advantage of these invaluable tools to get on the radar of D1 programs.

Here are tips for maximizing your presence on recruiting sites:

Register early

Create and build out your profile by freshman or sophomore year. You want to be searchable as soon as possible.

Complete your profile

Filling out all sections – video, bio, stats, academic info, contact details – makes you pop up in coach searches

Highlight strengths & skills

The bio section is your chance to showcase lacrosse talents, achievements, athleticism, experiences.

Update stats

Continually add stats from high school and club seasons so coaches can track progression.

Refresh video highlights

Replace video reels yearly to demonstrate skill development. Coaches want recent footage.

Link social media accounts

Connecting Instagram or Twitter provides coaches a more well-rounded view of you.

Feature academics

Listing academic info like GPA and test scores emphasizes you’re a true student-athlete.

Get coached up

Ask high school or club coaches to review your profiles and suggest improvements.

Respond to coaches

If college coaches message you through the site, always reply promptly. Show interest.

Cross-link profiles

Have profiles on multiple major recruiting sites and link to each other for more visibility.

Attend site events

Leverage recruiting site combines, tournaments and showcases which attract college coaches.

Google yourself

Search name regularly to see what comes up. Look at it from a coach perspective.

Committing to build and optimize your presence on lacrosse recruiting sites is essential to getting discovered by D1 coaches these days. Take control of your web presence!

Excel Academically

Your performance in the classroom is just as important as on the field when it comes to getting recruited by D1 lacrosse programs. Coaches want players who will thrive academically at their schools.

Here are some academic tips to boost your recruiting prospects:

Take challenging courses

Enroll in honors, Advanced Placement (AP) and accelerated classes to show your academic abilities. Don’t take the easy route.

Earn top grades

Coaches want recruits with strong GPAs – 3.5+ ideally. Work diligently and manage your time wisely.

Score well on standardized tests

Aim for 1200+ SAT or 25+ ACT scores. Meet college entrance exam requirements.

Set academic goals

Have clear academic targets – GPA, test scores, advanced courses. Strive for measurable achievement.

Communicate with teachers

Develop positive relationships with teachers and guidance counselors who can advocate for you.

Take leadership roles

Get involved in student government, academic teams or tutoring to demonstrate engagement.

Visit college fairs

Attend local college fairs to connect with school reps and learn about academic offerings.

Research majors

Explore potential majors and areas of study you’re interested in for college applications.

Highlight academics

Prominently feature academic achievements like GPA and test scores in recruiting materials.

Discuss academics on visits

Ask detailed academic questions when meeting with college coaches and admissions staff.

Get teacher recommendations

Secure recommendations from teachers who can vouch for your work ethic and academic dedication.

Making academics a priority shows coaches you have the intelligence, discipline and time management skills to excel in college on and off the field.

Develop Leadership Skills

College coaches want recruits who demonstrate strong leadership on and off the field. Taking on leadership roles builds skills and shows your ability to positively influence teammates.

Here are some ways to develop leadership to appeal to D1 programs:

Lead by example

Bring maximum effort and intensity to practices and games. Your work ethic sets the tone for others.

Be coachable

Accept coaching, implement instruction and make adjustments. Model how to take feedback the right way.

Communicate positively

Offer specific, constructive feedback to teammates. Don’t call guys out negatively.

Volunteer to lead drills

Take initiative to run drills and warm-ups. This displays confidence and knowledge.

Hype up teammates

Encourage and hype up struggling teammates to boost morale and energy. Be the motivator.

Resolve conflicts

Help resolve disputes between teammates off the field. Having composure to fix issues shows maturity.

Share credit

Celebrate team accomplishments, not just your own. Say “we” more than “I”. Remain humble.

Take younger players under wing

Mentor and give advice to underclassmen. Guide them on and off the field.

Handle adversity gracefully

How you respond to mistakes or losses reveals character. Stay poised.

Be inclusive

Make sure everyone feels valued and part of the team, especially non-starters. Build team chemistry.

Have team gatherings

Organize fun off-field outings and events to build relationships and camaraderie.

Displaying leadership makes you attractive to college coaches seeking recruits who will be positive influences on team culture and success.

Stay Fit Year-Round

To perform at the elite college level, lacrosse players need to commit to year-round physical conditioning, strength training and nutrition. Avoid the offseason letdown.

Here are tips for staying fit and recruitment-ready all year:

Train all lacrosse skills

Stick skills, shooting, footwork and other fundamentals can’t slip. Put in solo work when organized practices end.

Lift weights consistently

Follow a structured weight training program focused on explosive power, stability and injury prevention.

Mix up cardio

Incorporate sprints, jogs, swims, bikes, bleachers and other cardio to maintain endurance.

Play multiple sports

Competing in football, basketball, wrestling, etc. keeps athleticism sharp and prevents burnout.

Focus on athletic movement

Train lateral quickness, deceleration, change of direction and other athletic motions.

Fix muscle imbalances

Work on unilateral and imbalance exercises to prevent overuse injuries.

Do yoga or pilates

Increase flexibility, mobility, balance and mental focus through yoga classes or videos.

Watch game film

Study film to improve lacrosse IQ and visualize executing skills.

Drink water

Hydrate properly daily – half your body weight in ounces. Water is essential.

Sleep 8+ hours nightly

Quality sleep allows muscles to recover and repair. Make sleep a priority every night.

Monitor nutrition

Eat sufficient protein and limit junk food. Fuel your body properly year-round.

Staying on top of your athletic development and nutrition all year shows tremendous dedication. Coaches will appreciate your commitment to excellence in the offseason.

Perfect Fundamental Skills

Sharpening your fundamental lacrosse skills is vital for getting noticed by D1 coaches. Elite programs recruit players with sound stick skills, footwork, conditioning and lacrosse IQ.

Focus on mastering these core skills:

Stick protection

Keep your stick protected with two hands on it when being pressured. Make cradling second nature.

Scooping ground balls

Emphasize getting low, watch the ball in and secure it with dominant hand only. Repetition is key.

Passing and catching

Deliver crisp passes using proper form. Receive passes cleanly into your stick, even off target ones.

Shooting

Develop a powerful, accurate shot with quick release. Work on different types of shots – sidearm, overhand, bounce shot, etc.

Dodging

Sharpen change of direction and stick fakes to beat defenders. Explode past with every dodge.

Footwork

Quicken lateral slides, drops, pivots. Focus on short choppy steps to mirror dodgers.

Boxing out

Perfect using body position to seal off opponents for ground balls and rebounds.

Spacing and cuts

Master making purposeful cuts, setting effective picks and playing off ball.

Defensive positioning

Hone proper approach, gap control, body and stick positioning whether guarding or providing help D.

Wall ball

Solo wall ball sessions sharpen stick skills. Work both hands.

By dedicating time to sharpening fundamental lacrosse skills, you’ll be ready to compete at the elite D1 level. Skills get you noticed.

Master Advanced Lacrosse Techniques

Moving beyond fundamental skills, aspiring D1 players should develop mastery of advanced lacrosse techniques to stand out. Next-level moves and abilities will wow college coaches.

Practice taking your game to the next level with these advanced skills:

Behind-the-back passing

Work on snapping crisp behind-the-back feeds to open cutters from odd angles.

Quick stick passing

Develop one-touch passing catching on the run without cradling first. Speed up ball movement.

Face dodging

Perfect dodging defenders while facing them with quick stick fakes and change of pace.

Split dodging

Attack the gaps between adjacent defenders with precise dodges at top speed.

Swim moves

Master swim dodge techniques like the roll dodge and rocker step to elude defenders.

Inverted dodging

Turn back or across to dodge defenders overplaying you. Keep them guessing.

Two-man game

Work pick and rolls with a teammate to create 2-on-1 advantages.

Hidden ball tricks

Sell fakes by concealing ball in your stick to deceive defenders.

Quick split & dump

Pass ball quickly, make hard split cut and get dump pass back.

Picking corners

Develop ability to consistently pick corners with your shot placement.

Elevating technical abilities beyond fundamentals demonstrates a dedication to your craft. College coaches crave next-level talents.

Play Multiple Positions

To boost recruiting appeal, develop skills to play several positions instead of just one. Versatility shows adaptability and lacrosse IQ that college coaches love.

Here are the benefits of playing multiple spots:

Understand the game better

Learning all positional roles gives you a mental edge and full grasp of overall team dynamics.

Improve stick skills

Mastering the different stick skills required across positions makes you a well-rounded player.

See the field better

Playing various roles gives you a bigger picture view of the field and all its moving parts.

Reduce injury risk

Varying positions puts different physical stresses on your body, preventing overuse injuries.

Increase game IQ

You’ll learn more ways to attack and break down defenses from multiple angles.

Fill team needs

Coaches can slot you in wherever the team needs reinforcements.

Play more

Being able to plug into different lines or units means more potential playing time.

Be a Swiss Army knife

Your versatility makes you an adaptable asset coaches love to have.

Show unselfishness

Willingness to play any role, not just your favorite, displays team-first attitude.

College coaches need flexible players who can fill many roles. Playing multiple positions makes you a prime recruiting target.

Build Relationships with Coaches

Making authentic connections with college coaches is crucial for getting recruited to top D1 lacrosse programs. Nurturing coach relationships over time can make or break your recruitment.

Here are some tips for building strong coach relationships:

Introduce yourself first

Break the ice by approaching coaches at tournaments to introduce yourself and start a dialogue.

Show sincere interest

Ask thoughtful questions about their program’s culture, values and coaching philosophies.

Communicate regularly

Touch base consistently via email, calls or notes to provide updates and express continued interest.

Be coachable

If coaches provide feedback, embrace it openly. You want to impress them on and off the field.

Highlight shared connections

Note any familiar ties like knowing alumni or playing the same position they did.

Get face time

Attend prospect days, camps and visits to strengthen the bond through in-person meetings.

Share your story

Open up about your background, goals, family, values and interests to form deeper connections.

Respond promptly

Reply quickly to any communication from coaches to show you’re engaged and enthusiastic.

Follow up after meetings

Reinforce conversations by sending follow-up notes recapping key details discussed.

Express gratitude

Always thank coaches sincerely for their time and interest in you as a recruit.

Putting in the work to cultivate real relationships with coaches is the most certain path to getting recruited by a D1 lacrosse program.

Promote Achievements on Social Media

Leveraging social media platforms is an effective way to increase exposure and showcase your talents to college lacrosse coaches. Carefully managing your social presence boosts your recruitment.

Here are some social media tips for lacrosse hopefuls:

Post highlight clips

Share short highlight videos on Instagram and TikTok to display your skills in action to coaches.

Announce commitments

Post photos after committing to a college or club team. Tag the program and spread the news.

Showcase awards

Photograph and post any All-Star, All-League or other honors you receive for maximum visibility.

Document workouts

Post clips of speed training, lifting, wall ball sessions to exhibit your grind and dedication.

Attend showcases & camps

Share photos and updates while attending prospect events to remind coaches you’re there.

Engage with colleges

Like, comment on and share college lacrosse program’s posts to stay on their radar.

Tag coaches in posts

When relevant, directly tag coaches’ handles on your lacrosse posts to notify them.

Use relevant hashtags

Include hashtags like #lacrosse, #lacrosserecruiting to extend reach.

Monitor privacy settings

Maintain responsible privacy settings and online reputation – coaches pay attention.

Strategically managing your achievements and brand on social media gives coaches easy, frequent access to your talents.

Persist and Follow Up

Getting recruited to play D1 lacrosse often requires patience and persistence. Following up with coaches shows your continued interest and could make the difference in earning a roster spot.

Here are some ways to persistently stay on coaches’ radars:

Send monthly updates

Email coaches once a month with recent highlights, new video, academic updates to remind them of you.

Connect after interactions

Quickly send a note after meeting coaches thanking them and reinforcing your interest.

Leverage existing connections

Ask high school or club coaches with college connections to put in a good word for you.

Introduce yourself repeatedly

Politely reintroduce yourself to coaches at tournaments even if you met before.

Communicate application status

Notify coaches when you’ve applied or been accepted to their school. Update your commitment status.

Provide new stats & videos

Send updated recruiting materials showing your continued development and work ethic.

Follow up on feedback

If coaches critique your game, follow up on how you’re addressing their input.

Touch base before events

Email coaches if you’ll be at a tournament or camp they’re attending so they know to watch you.

Send handwritten notes

Mail handwritten cards or letters to stand out and demonstrate extra effort.

By continually following up and staying top of mind, you give yourself the best shot at landing a coveted D1 lacrosse roster spot.