Making the leap from high school to college lacrosse is a significant step in any athlete’s career. This often brings a mix of excitement, ambition, and anxiety that comes with the recruitment process. Along with the following, sign up for HGR’s comprehensive guide to help aspiring college lacrosse players navigate their journey with confidence.
Understand the Recruitment Timeline
The recruitment process starts earlier than many think. Begin by familiarizing yourself with the NCAA recruitment rules and timelines. For lacrosse, coaches can start contacting prospects on September 1st of their junior year in high school. This means you should start preparing well in advance—developing your skills, playing in club teams, and attending camps and showcases to get noticed.
Excel On and Off the Field
College coaches are looking for more than just lacrosse talent. Academic performance, leadership qualities, and character play a significant role in the recruitment decision. Maintain a strong GPA, take leadership roles in team and school activities, and exhibit sportsmanship and teamwork. These qualities can make you stand out as a well-rounded candidate.
Create a Highlight Reel
A well-crafted highlight reel can be your ticket to catching a coach’s eye. Start compiling footage early, focusing on clips that showcase your skills, lacrosse IQ, and athleticism. Your highlight reel should be concise—about 3 to 5 minutes—and include a mix of plays that demonstrate your abilities in various situations. Remember to keep it updated as you improve and achieve more on the field.
Attend Camps and Showcases
Camps and showcases are invaluable for exposure and development. They provide opportunities to compete against top talent and be seen by college coaches. Do your research and choose events that align with your position, skill level, and target schools. Participation in these events can also give you a realistic gauge of where you stand among your peers.
Engage with College Coaches
Proactive communication with college coaches is key. Begin by crafting a list of schools you’re interested in, considering both athletic and academic fit. Reach out to coaches with personalized emails, expressing your interest in their program and including your highlight reel, athletic resume, and upcoming game schedule. Be professional, polite, and persistent. Follow-up emails are important, but respect coaches’ time and avoid overwhelming them with messages.
Understand the Financial Aspect
Scholarships in lacrosse can be competitive, and it’s crucial to have a realistic understanding of the financial support available. Division I and II schools can offer athletic scholarships, but they may not cover the full cost of attendance. Look into academic scholarships, grants, and other financial aid options. Discuss with your family about the financial commitment involved in playing college lacrosse and have a plan in place.
Make the Most of Your Visits
When colleges start showing interest, campus visits are an invaluable part of the decision-making process. Use these visits to get a feel for the campus, meet the team, and sit down with the coaching staff. Ask questions about the program, academic support, and what life is like for a student-athlete. This is also your chance to showcase your personality and how you could fit within the team’s culture.
Stay Flexible and Open-Minded
Finally, keep an open mind throughout the process. Your dream school might change as you learn more about different programs and what they offer. Be open to exploring all your options, including Division III, club teams, or schools you hadn’t initially considered.
Navigating the college lacrosse recruitment process is a journey filled with hard work, persistence, and learning. By understanding the steps involved and actively engaging in your recruitment, you can find a college lacrosse program that’s the right fit for you, both athletically and academically. Remember, the goal is not just to play lacrosse in college but to set the foundation for success in life beyond the sport.
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