College Recruiting for Lacrosse 101
The Do’s and Don’ts of College Recruiting for Lacrosse
College recruiting can be a daunting task for any parent of a skilled student-athlete. This is more accurate than ever, given the post-graduate eligibility that many current players are enjoying due to COVID-19 and the evolving needs of college teams. College recruiting for lacrosse is best achieved with a supportive program like Jersey Thunder Lacrosse by your side.
Fortunately, Jersey Thunder Lacrosse has the experience, connections, and expertise to help make the recruiting process much more straightforward. Here is what a Jersey Thunder Lacrosse athlete gains access to in terms of recruiting:
Benefits of Recruitment with Jersey Thunder Lacrosse
30 Years of Experience
At Jersey Thunder Lacrosse, we have 30 years of club lacrosse experience and have an extensive network of connections at the collegiate level. Our players benefit from our experience and receive access to the best training and development opportunities. For more than three decades, we have worked towards perfecting the lacrosse training program in New Jersey.
Utilizing Expert Coaches
We are proud to have John Lade as our Recruiting Coordinator. John is a New Jersey native who started for 4-years at Syracuse and won 2 National Championships. His connections and influence in the college recruiting environment are an advantage for our athletes.
Proven Recruitment Solutions
We also offer programs that provide tips, training, and advice to help you stand out from the competition and make sure that your recruitment process is as smooth as possible. You’ll learn what coaches are looking for, how to write an effective recruiting email, tips on make a compelling highlight reel, and more!
The Do’s and Don’ts of Collegiate Lacrosse Recruitment
When college recruitment is on the line, it’s essential to know what to do and what not to do. One mistake can cost you a scholarship or opportunity to play at the next level. Be sure to follow our advice when navigating this journey.
Writing an Effective Lax Recruitment Email
Do:
Introduce yourself in a professional manner and list your experience.
Research their team and determine what interests you.
Start by telling them why you are a good fit for their program.
Remember to specifically address how you can help fit their needs.
Include eye-catching statistics that will make you stand out.
Remember to include your academic accomplishments, as well as your location.
Don’t:
Write a bad subject line—use something that grabs attention and is unique.
Avoid the generic ‘Lax Recruit’ subject that most emails are dulled down to.
Don’t forget to offer your availability if you want to set up a meeting.
Making the Most of Time with Collegiate Coaches
Do:
Coaches want talent, but they also want high-character players. Talent reveals itself naturally, but you should also focus on the following factors.
Always hustle. Prove that you play “with a motor”. It shows you can outwork your competition.
Be a good teammate. Celebrate your teammate’s successes and be sure to mentor them when needed.
Be a leader. Be assertive both on the field and on the sideline.
If you are at a college campus for a prospect day or camp, “do more” than the next guy. Get there early. Stay late. Be the first to hustle into a ball hunt when asked.
Don’t:
Talk to a college coach like they are your friend. College recruiting should be treated like a job interview. Both sides are assessing each other to determine if there is a fit. Be professional and respectful.
Do not let your parents speak on your behalf. Coaches are evaluating you, and it is important that their interaction is with you. Of course, your parents are a great resource for advice as you prepare for the interaction. But showing a sense of independence and maturity during this process can go a long way.
Do not get upset if a play does not go your way. Show that your focus is always on making the most important play of the game… the NEXT play.
Do not “showboat” or try to dazzle a coach with trick shots, trick checks, etc. Play a strong, confident game showcasing your advanced skills and your mastery of the fundamentals.
Be very aware of what you post on social media. Every social media post is a public record, and University Admission Staffs and College Lacrosse Coaching Staffs may check out what you are posting. Consider adding highlights from your lacrosse career on your social media profile to express how important the sport is to you. Make sure that you are the well-rounded person they'd be thrilled to admit.
Team Up with Jersey Thunder Lax
Don’t waste another minute wondering if something else could have been done during your recruitment journey. We’ll show you precisely what needs to be done right now. Let us help take away some of the stress involved with being recruited so that all your focus can go towards becoming a better player.
By understanding the essential factors that go into recruitment for college lacrosse, you’re one step closer to playing at the collegiate level. Work with Jersey Thunder today and start preparing for your future as a college athlete.