Many adult sports enthusiasts may find themselves looking for a new challenge or a change of pace in their athletic endeavours, especially at University. One sport that often catches the eye of those seeking something different is lacrosse. But can adult sportspeople successfully switch to lacrosse and excel in this dynamic and fast-paced game?
For adult sportsmen and sportswomen looking to switch to lacrosse, there are several transferable skills that can help them succeed in the sport. Skills such as hand-eye coordination, agility, speed, and teamwork are valuable assets in lacrosse. Athletes with a background in sports like soccer, basketball, rugby, field and ice hockey, or even tennis may find that their existing skills can be applied to the game of lacrosse.
Physical Demands
It's important to note that lacrosse is a physically demanding sport that requires a combination of strength, endurance, and speed. Adult sportspeople looking to transition to lacrosse should be prepared to undergo specific training to build the necessary physical attributes required for the game. Strength training, cardio workouts, and agility drills can all help athletes prepare for the rigors of lacrosse but perhaps the most important skills to learn have to be stick skills, getting to the point where the stick becomes an extension of your hands.
Learning Curve
While the basics of lacrosse may be easy to grasp, mastering the nuances of the game can take time and dedication. Adult sportspeople switching to lacrosse should be prepared to invest time in learning the rules, strategies, and techniques of the sport. Working with experienced coaches and teammates can help accelerate the learning curve and improve overall performance on the field, a vast majority of University teams within the UK sadly do not have a dedicated lacrosse coach and those teams who are self coached don't always have much in the way of experienced players. Joining a lacrosse club where there is not only experienced coaches but also a range of players that in many cases have decades of playing experience will go a long way in the learning process, a player being regularly coached by passionate lacrosse coaches with the ability to grow and nurture newer players will go a long way in the development of men and women keen to excel at the sport.
Success in Lacrosse
With the right mindset, dedication, and training, adults can indeed switch to lacrosse and find success in the sport in a relatively short period if nurtured in such a way that they are integrated quickly within a positive lacrosse environment. Whether it's competing in recreational leagues, joining a local club team, or even pursuing competitive opportunities, there are avenues for adult athletes to thrive in lacrosse. By embracing the challenge, honing their skills, and staying committed to improvement, adult sportspeople can make a successful transition to the exciting world of lacrosse. On a positive note, there are more coaching resources available on social media than ever before which can give players and coaches alike the opportunity to gain valuable knowledge.