June 9, 2010
Finding a suitable playing level
by Kristen Kjellman/
Lacrosse is an exciting game, and the growth of the sport is exciting for everyone who loves it.
Now that the sport seems to be oozing with opportunity, I’ve noticed that many players and parents have inflated expectations of scholarship offers from top tier programs. Why is there so much pressure and expectation for kids to reach the highest level? I admit that today’s economy is a driving force – defraying a $40,000 to $50,000 annual four-year commitment can certainly be a motivating factor.
Yet few kids – even the ones whose parents invest thousands to play with the top regional select teams – will get the big-money offers, and most players should be encouraged to pursue the sport at the level where they are most comfortable.
Understandably, sometimes it can be difficult to gauge a player’s level solely on his/her performance on a school or league team – especially for athletes who come from emerging markets. And by emerging I don’t mean Brazil, Russia, India or China. My little town of Westwood, Mass., was an emerging lacrosse power back 10 years ago.
Frankly, we played in a make-shift league, but it became easier for everyone to find their level with the success of the program. Today, there are many new programs, and they each have their local “stars,” who may or may not be ready for a bigger stage.
That’s why camps, clinics and travel teams are great. Not only can a player learn new skills and techniques, but he/she can measure his/her talent against other players.
Coaches also should be honest with players about their level and not set or support unrealistic goals.
A player should weigh his/her priorities and feel confident to choose to play at any level, whether it is club ball, intramural, Division 1, 2 or 3.
It’s perfectly acceptable to take an avenue where lacrosse takes a back seat to school life and extracurricular activities. The game will always be there for you; the growth of post-collegiate leagues and clubs is making it so that anyone who is motivated to play – even if they took their college years off – can stay in the sport.
If you have the talent to play Division 1, understand that, outside of the classroom, it will feel like Lax 24/7. That’s not for everyone, even for kids who love the game and are good at it.
In addition, as you try to decide on a certain program, you also should determine if you could accept being a role player versus the star you may have been.
Don’t get me wrong, I think it’s great for kids to be challenged, to dream big and to have their eyes set on a Northwestern; but in the end, only a tiny sliver of athletes can make that dream become a reality.
Your objective as a player should be to find your level without losing enthusiasm and passion for the game.
Most kids will never play Division 1, but as long as they are happy and self-assured while playing the game, then the sport, on the whole, is heading in the right direction.
