As we kick off another exciting season, I wanted to share some reflections on our recent Beast lacrosse tryouts. This time of year can be challenging, especially when some kids don’t make the teams.
As a coach and program director, these conversations are never easy, particularly when they involve friends and families who have been part of our community.
It’s important to remember that every player develops at their own pace, and finding the right level of competition is crucial for building confidence. Lacrosse, like many sports, is a long-term journey. Personally, I began playing lacrosse in seventh grade, while some of my friends who started even later went on to play collegiate + professionally.
Not making a team can be disheartening, but how we respond to it is key. Here are two common paths parents and players can take in these situations:
- Blame Others: It’s easy to point fingers at coaches or the organization, citing “politics” or feeling that your child deserved a spot. While it’s true that politics can play a role, it’s also important to focus on how we can improve.
- Seek Feedback: A more constructive approach is to ask for feedback, work on skills, and come back stronger the following year, ready to earn a spot on the team.
Every year, there’s a significant event in lacrosse: the Grade 7 World Series, where the top 50 teams from North America compete, and Beast is proud to be among them.
This year, fast forward 12 months, the player returned to tryouts. Not only did he absolutely light it up, but he brought back new skills. The player learned to face-off, was amazing off the ground.
If we didn’t need an attack player, he had other skills and was open to doing whatever it took to make the team. As a coach who has watched this player grow, it was rewarding to see his perseverance pay off. Struggles in sports are inevitable for all athletes, but how we respond to those challenges defines our journey.
Thank you for your continued support as we embark on this season together!
Coach Reid Acton
