Each player will be expected to challenge herself with the new aspects of practices, while continuing to build on those things that are not new to her. This is the only way that a player and a team can truly grow and be successful while also keeping practice from becoming mundane.

Creativity

Each player will be asked to strengthen her creativity in practice. Learning and understanding the concepts of the game of lacrosse are the first steps. Players will be encouraged to “try something new” and think “a play ahead.” Practicing in this way will help each player to adapt in game situations. The team will not only be asked to learn set plays (both on offense and defense) but also to be creative when necessary.  Because a coach cannot be on the field telling each player what to do, the players will learn to make decisions on their own.

Playing Time

Playing time will be given to the players who earn it. Hard work and dedication will beat out natural talent and laziness any day. Freshmen are not designated to the bench, just as upperclassmen are not guaranteed starting positions. The player who “wants it” the most, will get playing time. Whenever it is possible, most or all players will get playing time as is feasible. Gaining game experience is invaluable for those younger or struggling players, because the speed of the game is so quick.

Offense and Defense

Each player will be encouraged to become a well-rounded player. The main idea is that when your team has the ball everyone is on offense and when your team doesn’t have the ball, everyone is on defense.

The defense will be a pro-active unit, not simply a reaction to the offense. Defenders will learn to work together as one, trust each other, run defensive plays, and be encouraged to take risks. Goalies will be encouraged to take charge and help lead the defense.

The offense will learn to be patient when appropriate and push the tempo when appropriate. They will learn to recognize when certain plays will work and when to deviate from them. Each attacker will learn to be a threat. Each player will know her role on the field and work her hardest to fulfill that role.  

Academic Philosophy

Student-athletes are first and foremost students—academics are the first priority. Student-athletes will be required to attend study hall. Each young woman will be encouraged to achieve her full potential. By keeping a good relationship with the academic support staff, problems with certain courses will be alleviated as soon as they arise. At the start of each semester, each student will speak with her professors to discuss any missed classes due to competitions. On away trips, school work will be encouraged to be worked on at appropriate times.  The team goal will be to have a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or higher.

The Thinking Game

Competition at the collegiate level demands both physical and mental discipline. Becoming aware that one’s mind is just as powerful as one’s body is a very important concept to grasp. Dr. Bob Rotella, an author and Sports Psychologist wrote, “Negative thinking is almost 100% effective.” Concepts such as learning to think positively, changing negative thoughts, focus and relaxation and even mental imagery will be introduced to the student-athletes. Also, the issues of team dynamics, communication skills and the idea of what makes a good team will be discussed.