How to begin the Search:  Navigation also through IMLCA/IWLCA Recruits

Go to www.mnloons.org for more details and NCAA requirements and rules. NCAA recruiting online search can populate rules, timelines, and additional info.

 

Niche.com- Online resource tool for college institution info, ratings, facts and more.

https://www.niche.com/?ref=colleges 

 

Take of few of these into consideration. No matter what you’re looking for in a college or university it is important to have some things in mind.

 

­ (1) Academics - Are you able to get in, your scores? Your GPA? Is this going to be a

good fit for you? You could be the best lacrosse player out there but if you don’t have the    grades.... you’re not going to get in!

­ (2) Size/Location - Google earth, look at the surrounding areas, where is it? What is the enrollment of the institution?

­ (3) Courses offered - go online, look through the programs offered. Even further, look.

at success rates and placement to careers beyond graduation. Accredited?

­ (4) Surrounding area/ social life in school - What else do students do? Campus life. Student Unions, activities, events, study areas.

­ (5) Lacrosse team - your needs or desires fit? What division/conference? Can you succeed in this environment? How and when do you see yourself getting P.T.?

- (6) Financials - How much is enrollment and campus life, scholarships, grants, etc.

 

 

 

 

-TIMELINE-

PLAY//DEVELOP//---RESEARCH---CREATE HIGHLIGHT REEL---EMAIL COACHES

 

PLAY IN FRONT OF COACHES---RESEARCH//FOLLOW UP EMAILS

 

VISIT SCHOOLS/Prospect Camp---Compare-CHOOSE

 

 

 

 

- GENERAL TIPS-

 

-Find the school that has the right fit first…. not just the lacrosse team. Go to college to get an education not “Go to College to play lacrosse. The team is a very important but separate factor.

 

‐Shoot for the Stars but know your ability level and where you can play. Don’t be afraid to gather numerous options for your future. Take into consideration where you want to see yourself on the program. Do you want to play all 4 years or work to make a (playing) spot in the last few on a more competitive team.

 

-If a coach contacts you, be respectful and honest with them, even though that school may not be on “your list”…you never know where connections could get you! Always respond in a respectful and professional manor. KEEP YOUR OPTIONS OPEN!

 

‐A good rule to go by is...” If you tear your ACL on the way to your first day in class, are

you still going to so to this school”? Is this where you want to be outside of lacrosse?

 

-Our alumni have attended numerous colleges across the nation. Look on the “About Us” on our website, if one of your schools appears on the list, ask and we can put you in touch with that person to ask come questions.

 

-Open multiple options for focus in school studies. Keep 3 avenues open. You want options when you are finishing you decision process. not struggles? When looking into schools look at options in all divisions and all areas of study.

 

-Constantly compare to other institutions through the rules we listed above.

 

-Tell the truth about test scores and GPA. Have transcripts ready. Know your class rank and mention if you take honors courses.

 

-If you are a rising Senior or Rising Junior who is in an advanced stage of recruiting be ready to be able to access and pull your high school transcripts.

 

-If you have interest in a school make sure to fill out the “Recruitment Profile” or Questionnaire on their host website, usually found on the team’s home page.

 

-Email coaches. Try not to email over the weekend…when they return on Monday, they have “X” number of emails to then go through. Keep sending emails every week or so until you get a response. Make sure emails are composed in proper form and grammar. Make a good subject line. Use our staff as reference and/or and introduction…use us for our connections with coaches.

 

-Spend time researching schools…it’s your future. Make every moment you play worth it, enjoy the game and your skill will show!

 

-Questions to ask a coach… If you have interest in a school and a particular area of study mention the study in a question to a coach. Example. I’m interested in Phycology. Then possibly try to tie it in and then ask a player who is taking the same major what its like being a lacrosse player taking those classes and expectations.

 

-Have a “team” recruit you. Meet the team, see if you gel with them. You will spend most of your time with your teammates even over your coach. Ask the teammates what its like to go to school there and play lacrosse, fun things to do outside of lacrosse, and what the coach is like.

 

-You have to love to practice being a college player. You will spend the most amount of time on the practice field, day in day out. This needs to be fuel for you to keep going. PRACTICE is the day to day; you need to love all of it! It’s the one thing you guaranteed, you may not see the game field, but you will get practice reps every day.

 

 

-THROUGH THE COACHES EYE-

 

-Coaches like to see that athletes stay with their club programs. They want to see students committed, and therefore committed to their program as well and won’t leave. They also look to see players develop, they don’t want them to hop around and collect new jerseys.

 

-Coaches look at players who love the game. To play at the next level you MUST love the game. The time that lacrosse demands in college doesn’t leave a lot of spare time at certain times of the year…you must love it.

 

-College coaches don’t like to be contacted by coaches who send mass emails. They like to hear from players. That also means parents - parents should refrain from emailing the coach. You can help your son create the email and find the coach’s email, but please do not send an email to them before they send one to you. NO PARENT AGENTS

 

-“NCAA coach” said  “We seem to get a lot of players who enter as Freshmen with 25 year old bodies. Players can in fact “do too much” at times with attending event after event after event in the summer. Teams should focus more on development with players rather than the player attending 8 events in the summer”.

 

-College coaches watch how you look when you walk on the field. They watch what you always do. They watch you off ball, when you make a mistake, and when you have an opportunity to make SIMPLE maneuvers and or effort. EYES ALWAYS ON YOU, look at how you carry yourself! Do you walk on and off the field, or run?

 

-The college coach’s job is to get you to attend/enroll in their school school. Use that coach’s help, ask questions. They are a liaison to the school to help bring students in the door.

 

-Coaches look for players who know how to work on their own. They want to know if kids know how to lift weights properly and have a workout routine. DO NOT LET YOUR PARENTS CARRY YOUR BAG!

 

-College coaches may be hard to get a hold of. Be respectable, don’t send 100 emails but try to reach them. At times it’s ok to give them a call and introduce yourself. If you have had communication and you see them at an event, it’s ok to approach and introduce yourself. They are working and need to pay attention to games, be quick, respectful, and be a gentleman.

 

-KEYS TO A HIGHLIGHT REEL-

AN ABSOLUTE MUST TO AN ATHLETE LOOKING TO PLAY COLLEGE LACROSSE!!!

 

• Create the “Hit List” while in season. What do you need in your arsenal…
• Turn audio very low, even off. Coaches don’t want to hear parents yelling or music with bad language.
• Competition…how good is your opponent? Its needs to be good, contested film.
• The more time you put into editing, the better it will be!
• ENTERTAIN- NCAA Coach said. “I’m 50 years old…entertain me!”
• Post on Youtube. You can track views and locations viewed. Post on multiple platforms – TAG IT!
• Keep it entertaining. Keep it fairly fast, let your eye be able to read the scene before the action starts.
• Highlight or circle your athlete. Don’t just rely on telling the number of the player.
• No more than 5 min or so or coaches will turn it off.
• Find your best game you have on film and keep it in case a coach asks to see entire game. Coach might want to see how you play off ball and what you do when you make a mistake.
• Best clips up front. Most energy most impactful. Play good competition, good opponents! Then group clips by category so goals, assists, Mid D to finish off. Best stuff up front and alternate. Don’t show all right-handed goals in a row, throw in a left and assist every once in a while!
• Show diversity in a player. Look hard in film for “silent Plays.”
• SPEED, SPEED, AND MORE SPEED! Show athleticism.
• -info posted on Student Athlete…Name, Age, Grad Year, Position, Club Team, Hometown, HS, Grades, Test Scores, Academic and Athletic Awards and Accolades, Height/Weight, other sports, Email, Phone number, Club coaches contact, HS coach reference, Origin of film
• FILM EVERYTHING. You will never have a database of game/highlight film if you didn’t shoot it!
• WHEN YOU SEND IT OUT> ALWAYS CC US ON THE EMAIL. WE NEED TO RESEND IT FROM OUR EMAIL ON YOUR BEHALF AND FOLLOW UP WITH COACHES
• We Create highlight reels, ask us how we can help!

 

Feedback From Alumni Parents:

 

“Words of advice for incoming families to the MN Loons family.   There is so much to say about how the program is led and the dedication of the MN Loons coaches.   But here are a few words of advice:

 

Enjoy your time with the program.  We were able to attend several of the tournaments to watch the boys play.   It is amazing at the level of competition that you encounter.   The Loons staff does a great job in preparing the boys to compete at a level they may not have experienced during their high school years.  If you have a chance to go to a tournament don't pass that up.   It is really an eye-opening experience when you see the level of play and how well the Loons team competes.

 

For recruiting make sure your players are doing their homework.  Brandon Husak and his team are a great resource for the players connecting them with coaches and getting them into the right tournaments, but the boys need to do their share of the work.   Research the colleges they are interested in attending.  Half of the colleges that we got emails from we had no idea where they were located or what programs they offered.  Take time to put together your wish list.  Base your list on what will work for your family.  Factors you may include may be academic standing, distance from home, campus size, cost of tuition.  Factors your son may include are Division of play.   My advice would be to pick 6-8 schools.  Pick some that might be out of your comfort zone, pick some that you are comfortable with and pick a few for your back up schools.   Then concentrate on those schools.    Work with the Loons staff (they are so happy to help) to email coaches, put a game video (film you high school games as well), and reach out to the coaches of those schools.   Be persistent and don't ever think it is too early to start the process.

 

The biggest piece of advice that I would share though is don't go into the process expecting a full ride scholarship.  Those are non-existent.  But the opportunity you may have to be at great academic school with the support of their lacrosse program is priceless.   Don't forget to look at the bigger picture -  what type of education and future will my son have when they graduate. 

 

Actually, I take that back - the biggest piece of advice is to tell the kids to work hard, listen to their coaches (they want the best for them), and have fun.  Play the game with heart and dedication but have fun.   Don't lose the love of the game. “

 

 

“Having a son who has played three years with the Loons; white, red and gold teams; we have invested heavily in the program.  There were times, with flexing schedules, lots of unknowns, not to mention writing significant checks, that we wondered "is this really worth it?"  Now coming out the other side we can emphatically say "Yes".  The Loons lacrosse program will take your "boy" and force him to grow.  He will play against teams at a caliber not seen in Minnesota. He will practice against players who are the best of the best in Minnesota, creating many off the field friendships.  Couple that with a coaching staff, that have all played at the NCAA level, and it will drive your son not to only grow as a player, but as a young man. He will find lots of willing coaches to put in some extra work or guidance, both on the field and off, if he simply asks.  Hard work, a teachable spirit and team dedication are a must.  In the midst of that he will have the opportunity to shine in front of most every NCAA or regional club college coach in America.  The opportunities are endless and Brandon, as well as the other coaches, are there to guide you and your son through the development process and the recruiting process. They will offer wisdom and help in promoting your son to prospective college coaches and use their vast relationships with these coaches to create recruiting opportunities.  Yet, in the midst of all this there is a huge emphasis on being a good person, a good student and getting grades that open doors, since the best athletes will get few opportunities without good academics, which will last far beyond the lacrosse field.  It is an investment with a risk for sure and a sacrifice for our kids, but for those who strive for the goals they set the opportunities are many and the benefits look to last well beyond high school and even college.  We truly recommend the Minnesota Select Loons lacrosse experience.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“Our experience has been that interested schools really want your son to visit the school he is considering.  As this can be very time consuming and expensive, we found through our experience that this part of the process should have some consistent things that you should expect as a family, and that it is up to you to request that these things happen.

 

A "best practice" from our perspective would be to ensure that the visit has the following components:

 

• An individual meeting with the coaching staff--head coach preferred.
• Full athletic and lacrosse facility tour explaining what is different for the student athletes than the regular students.
• Admissions meeting--this is critical, and if you don't ask for it it may not happen.  Here you learn about the cost of the school, merit-based scholarships, any lacrosse aid that may be in play, and timelines for admissions/deadlines, etc.  This is all information that you will need regardless of whether you qualify for "need based" assistance.
• Tour of the academic side of the campus.  This is usually coordinated through the admissions office and is more of a general tour.
• Classroom experience (sitting in on a class or talking to a professor is typical)
• Ask for a full time-based agenda to be sent in advance.

Even if your son is "driving" most of these communications with the coaches, having your son ask for these things in advance will help ensure you have the most optimized campus visit possible.  Good luck!”

 

 

 

“If your son is serious about becoming a better Lacrosse player or has aspirations of playing the game at the Collegiate level, being a part of the MN Loons Select program is one of those “keys” you need to take it up a notch. We were immediately impressed at our first tournament in Chicago this year at the increased level of play. Our son responded to this in a big way and over the course of the summer grew in giant leaps as a player. The coaches were knowledgeable, helpful, and willing to go the extra mile both on and off the field. We had a great time attending these events as a family, and also learned how to utilize the information and opportunities the Loons experience afforded him to his full advantage. 

 

It was apparent to us that as we traveled the country, the Loons were respected at every event not just for the level of play they brought to the field, but also for how they carried themselves off the field. The buses, tents, equipment, and uniforms were all first class. It was obvious that other programs thought very highly of the way Brandon and his staff prepared the teams. They took it serious, and I think the scouts have in turn taken Minnesota a bit more serious when recruiting players to their programs.  

 

We used the MN Loons program, in concert with a profile on the NCSA, to give our son all the tools he needed to connect with the College scouts. The Loons provided intel of what schools and scouts would be in attendance at each Loons event. These scouts were actually very friendly and approachable; some were head coaches starting new programs. At the end of the summer we were traveling around the country attending prospect camps that he was invited to, and visiting colleges who we had met at the Loons events. Brandon was very helpful with the scholarship process once the offers started coming in, and we were very happy to have someone we knew and trusted to turn to with our questions. We had been involved in other “elite” camps and programs in hockey that were comparable in price but didn’t deliver even close to the results and opportunities the MN Loons program did. Our son would not be getting a College scholarship to play Lacrosse without being a part of this program…Highly Recommended!”

 

 

 

 

 

Keys to a School Visit/Phone Call

 

 

-In a respectful manor or with your director’s guidance see if you can find out some more financial information on institution, if you are a “money kid”, for academics or athletic money to know if the estimated tuition even fits in your family finances.

 

-Travel: Remember when making a road trip that the longest part of the travel is getting there! Anticipation can lead to making the trip feel long. If you are weary about a school that might be on the boarder of your “bubble away from hometown” (if you have a bubble) it might be best to gauge your feeling of distance on the travel home! Travel can create stress…remember to have a good experience!

 

-From the start make sure the line of communication is passed along from the student athlete/parent to our program director and coach. We want to make sure that it becomes very clear that the visit is genuine and for the right reasons.

 

-When accepting a visit make sure that the school is an option. You don’t HAVE to go there, but you will NEED to visit the school you do decide to finally attend.

 

-If you are wavering and don’t really know if you should go?.....If you haven’t had a tour of a school, and financially it is within your means, and the school seems like it could be an option…DO IT! Get one under your belt. The more you attend the more you can then compare the pros and cons.

 

- If the tour is during school session many coaches will like to setup for the recruit to stay a night with team player. PARENTS…This is ok, you will have to let go at some point. Player, DON’T GET INTO TROUBLE.

 

-Take note on how the players on the team interact with their coach, you, and your family on the visit.

 

-Are you setting up a meeting with a school admin or prof? The good tours setup by coaches will have this built in. If you don’t have it in an itinerary tell the coach you want to. Be proactive and get out there to ask questions.

 

-A good question to ask a coach and ask a player on the team separate is “How does your school/team separate itself from others, what do you do different, and how can you help student athletes”.

 

-Students do most of the talking….not the parents!

 

-“Dress the Part” from Coach Jim Berkman of Salisbury. Dress for the job you want, not the one you have. Wear a shirt and Tie, and even a suit. Do not just show up in jeans and your team jacket!

 

-PHONE CALL: Most of the time a coach will try to connect over the phone. He may contact the coaches directly and may have to if the time falls under a “no contact period” by NCAA Rule. A time will be arranged to call. Make sure you know what time zone the call is set for! ALWAYS ADRESS THE COACH AS COACH! Be confident over the phone. Be clear, do not mumble. Do not make a call around friends, find a quite spot. Ask questions from a list you create before the call. Use proper adult language. BE yourself, if you like to workout and lift weights, ask about their weight room/facilities. IF you like smaller class sizes or a quiet work environment as about that. If you are a social butterfly and like “activities” around school that promote student activities and social life ask about the campus experience.

 

-Ask about the hard parts. Ask what some of the most difficult times are their players have through the year both athletically/physically, and also academically. THIS WILL HAPPEN…. DONT AVOID IT, EDUCATE YOURSELF. If a coach can see that you notice that and even ask that he will respect you are expecting a challenge which is sure to come. They want players who can accept the challenge!

 

-On the visit be a gentleman, make eye contact, be grateful of the opportunity and time, be respectful, ask questions, relax and have fun. Be yourself and know that what you are embarking upon is an opportunity that OTHERS are taking the time out of their day to help you with their future.

 

-Asking about where you fit in on “depth” or when you might see playing time is very touchy. Look at it from the coach’s eye. His players fight for spots daily, and could become completely different in the off season work out program. But if it’s a big concern and deciding factor for you to see playing time…be honest! Confide in the coach, and ask him for advice like “Coach I understand that asking you about depth and when I might see playing time can be a very loaded question. I understand you have players fighting for spots who are older, and going through strong workout regiments. What advice do you have for me, or feedback if playing time could be determining factor for a student athlete like me who is comparing opportunities.” Its also ok to ask especially in certain positions like goalies how many other athletes are they recruiting in the position. On a visit COMPARE YOURSELF to the players in practice. Be realistic on where you see yourself now/future

 

-A lot of things about the school with naturally come out. What the dorms are like, why are they different and how great their business program is (for example), what’s cool about their locker room, student life….ect.

 

-Good coaches will also recruit the parent. If you are asked…sit in on a meeting with the coaching staff. They “should” strive to make the parents and family comfortable with leaving their child with them in the future. For the next 4 years that coach/staff will be guiding your child for the majority of the year. They “should” be making a good impression and instill TRUST from the start with the player and the family.

 

-In the end make sure to have all “financials” in line to make sure you know what costs will be before deciding.

 

-NCAA D1-2 make commitments verbal up front, then in writing on signing day. Division 3 does not officials “commit” rather make the commitment to attend and play for their school. When you decide, call and notify the coach that you make that are making the commitment to attend and play for the school, then immediately notify the other schools/coaches you have visited or have spoke with in the past.

 

 

 

 

MEDIA/Networking

Social Media has become a large and visual role in recruiting. Let’s face it, there is no way coaches spend as much time on their phones looking at social media as kids. But non the less they still do hop on and do their due diligence…especially if they are looking at you as a prospect.

• Keep your Twitter / Instagram/ social media clean. If you have it on private, then that might be because you have something to hide! Don’t have anything to hide. If you want to be private…then don’t have it at all.
• Post where you are going, what you do and tag what events/staff you attend.
• Retweet and support your fellow teammates and athletes. Only positive. Don’t post negative media.
• NEVER NEVER NEVER disrespect or put down other athletes or highlights.
• Remember someone always has their eyes on you, and if not, they can still look back through your history to research your hobbies and social life.
• Coaches recognize our “BRAND” respect and remember you are a representation of your program.

 

OUR PROGRAM

 

Has created contacts with numerous college coaches through the years. Our staff takes the time in the off-season to visit schools, learn along side of college coaches and create priceless network opportunities. Take advantage of our staff…

THIS IS WHAT WE ARE HERE FOR!

 

We have seen college players play and have coached many of them. We know what certain coaches look for in players and that can be different from school to school. Ask us where you may find a good fit in a certain school and or setting.

 

INVOLVE US. CC us on emails. Share your opportunities with us. Confide in us. We have been there and can assist in guidance! RESPOND TO ALL EMAILS

 

Other Recruiting Opportunities:

 

Yes you will have other and additional opportunities when it comes to individual camps but that’s when the costs go up! You will have more exposure at those events, but there are a few things to look out for.

 

Did you get a “Form Letter Invite”? Sometimes it’s ok to get an invite like this, but we warn to make sure everything can line up correctly. Many college programs have “Prospect Camps” which can be very beneficial, but you can really get your bang for your buck when you Are looking at that school or have interest. If you do not, don’t waste your time spending money and attending an event that you will not benefit from. If you are “Up in the Air” on deciding to attend an event maybe take a look at your finances and time, if it fits in then great, maybe take that next step, or if you have not attended one of those events and that school truly is a potential and maybe you already have traded emails with the coach then yes we suggest it! If you have any questions, ask Coach Husak who can reach out on your behalf to see if there is genuine interest.

 

Our program is built to support your needs, created to support you as a student athlete. We choose an attend events to be able to fulfill your recruiting needs. College coaches don’t like to be contacted by “Parent Agents”. The connections that our staff has and can create with those college coaches are a massive help in connections that NEED to be made for recruitment and feedback. We need to be involved and you will need our help…that’s what we are here for!

 

A number of these events can be “INVITE ONLY” where you will need our recommendation for you to receive an invite. Contact our program director for support in that area.

 

NOTE* A large number of student athletes that go on to play Division 1 lacrosse attend these camps and or events in addition to their club teams.

 

 

 

Prospect Camps/Individual Invite Events and Showcases

“Wear your club programs attire. Represent your program. Those coaches will know your affiliation and respect your desire towards the game and know where your networking connections lie.”

- Coach Matt Brown, University of Denver Men`s Lacrosse

 

Prospect Camps have become EXTREMLY popular in all divisions of NCAA lacrosse. College programs will host these events for many reasons. Obviously, it’s a great opportunity to see players on your own campus without having to tap into a coaches travel budget to recruit. Coaches will see who SERIOUSLY is looking into their school. At times these events can also serve as a bit of a “fundraiser” for some teams but not all. Here are a few things for you the student athlete…

• If you are interested/seriously considering this school, it’s a great idea to attend. You can meet the staff and visit campus all in one…. something you will have to do either way.
• Ask us before hand if this opportunity, school, ability level, and fit is good. Great idea to ask questions and plan rather than jump at every opportunity this will get expensive!
• At times these events can be an environment for a “ball hog”. That’s a waited term, and in this situation its much better to be seen with the ball working hard rather than to not be seen at all! Defenders look to run and clear the ball rather than pass; offensive players place yourself in situations here you can dodge then make the right decision. When we follow up with a coach, we want to be able to talk about you, make them remember you rather than not know who you are.
• Get into Invite Events that are GRAD YEAR based.
• Invite Events will need a coach’s recommendation, contact us
• Invite events may have MASSIVE NUMBERS. Research how many attends and history of event
• We suggest you investigate attending at least one Prospect Day or Individual Showcase. You will gauge where other serious and dedicated players are looking to bring their game and desire.
• COACHES LOOK FOR PLAYERS THEY CANT LIVE WITHOUT. MAKE AN IMPACT
• COACHES LOOK FOR PLAYERS WITH SPECIAL GIFTS. HIGHLIGHT YOUR STREGTHS
• COACHES LOOK FOR PLAYERS WITH ATHLETIC POTENTIAL. BE AN ATHLETE

 

 

 

 

Keys to your letter:

 

“Emails are an exercise of maturity and responsibility that every student athlete needs to posses.”

-Coach Matt Brown University of Denver

 

‐ALWAYS include the coach's name. Don't just write "Coach" and send it to everyone.

 

-Be BOLD, Catch the coach’s attention to let them know right from the start its not a form letter. Include something unique to the coach, school, staff, something you can dig up to show its an original and intentional email.

 

-“CC” us on your email. We are a networking tool for you. We need to see your communication and will need to follow up on your behalf with the respective coach.

 

-You can find coaches contacts on the team page or website of the school. Most times you will see a staff/roster/or coaches’ button.

 

-State where you will be able to be seen. What events you participate in, what number you are, and the contact for your coaches involved (cell phone number and email).

 

‐Make sure your writing is formal and grammatically correct. PROOFREAD!

 

-Be thorough but not too long! Mention the “Stand Outs”, your strengths! If you have good academics, GPA, or test scores, make sure you mention that very early. Size, height, weight, grad year, position, school/hometown all a must.

 

-All Accolades through your community/school team, in all sports and overall, what makes you the individual that you are. Also list growth. Have you improved your grades, have you shown determination and persistence?

 

‐Make sure to include why you're interested in the school besides the lacrosse aspect. A coach wants to know you're going to be happy at his school and stay there (and eligible) all 4 years. You don't need to go into too much detail or do too much work either. Simply go on the school's academic web page and check out the main facts that they provide.

 

‐When approaching coaches, I copy and pasted this same letter to all of them but changed a few details for each. Obviously, the coach's name. Then I included any connection I have with the school (in this example, knowing a current roster player. Next I changed the name of the college and the quick facts I like about the school.

 

-If you are writing letter in a “form” type to numerous schools MAKE SURE you double and triple check that you have the correct name and titles for the appropriate school

 

-Questions to ask a coach… If you have interest in a school and a particular area of study mention the study in a question to a coach. Example. I’m interested in Phycology. Then possibly try to tie it in and then ask a player who is taking the same major what its like being a lacrosse player taking those classes and expectations.

 

-Have a “team” recruit you. Meet the team, see if you gel with them. You will be spending most of your time with your teammates even over your coach. Ask the teammates what its like to go to school there and play lacrosse, fun things to do outside of lacrosse, and what the coach is like

 

 

 

RESPONDING TO EMAILS! And “The Hunt”

 

I know you can get overwhelmed with emails and even prospect days and form letters. YOU ALL NEED TO RESPOND! I know it can be difficult. At times you email multiple coaches, sometimes with no response. At times you can get "form letters" or invites to "protect days"...I even we get these!

 

Some schools need to recruit multiple players across the country at all points of the year to get athletes that indeed have interest in their school. You need to respect the process, respect their time, keep options open for yourself, and SEEN as a recruit able athlete to all coaches.

 

If you do not see the school as a fit or do not have interest that is ok. RESPOND RESEPCTFULLY on why not.

 

PLEASE LOOK INTO YOUR ATHLETE GUIDE FOR ASSISTANCE ON THIS. Or email US!

 

1) You need to be seen recruit able and a valuable recruit. If you have even slight interest in the school you need to respond and keep the door open until the right time in your recruitment timeline where you can close that because you have other "sure" opportunities on the table. When a coach asks you, "Have you been talking to other schools" it important to have a positive reply. If you reply no, they could tae their time with you knowing that you can wait because you are not being heavily recruited. If you say yes, and possibly even at times to a higher level or competition that coach will know that now "he" is on the hot seat.

 

2) We need to keep our great reputation as a club program who has student athletes who are responsible. That name carries a ton of weight. Weight that we have each year to be able to network with coaches.

 

3) It helps you be responsible and respect the process. You need to send mails to coaches with a highlight reel. You also need to respond to all emails. If you know for sure you do not have interest in the school, be RESPECTFUL, and respond back respectfully why. Don't lead the coach on, and don't waste their time. But its good to take time, maybe even a phone call to hear them out on what your options might be. These coaches also know each other. They talk, and its good to have a respectful reputation!!!!

 

 

“The Hunt, and an offer”

 

When you actively being recruited, talked to the coaches, taken a campus tour next come the offer if you are so privileged!

 

Our first goal as a program is to possible have the sport/connections that lacrosse can provide to be able to have the sport/connection to help possibly get you into a school that otherwise your academics may slightly lack in getting accepted as an average student.

 

The offer comes in multiple ways. The first that we can only “somewhat” plan on are your academics. As we state, the only financial support you can try to get would be a academics scholarship or support. You can get support in ways such as grants, merit based and income, and at times yes, athletic.

 

Part of the hunt is how recruitable are you, or are you sought after? This is where its very good to have some leverage and can be recruited by other schools so you can compare your options. We want to advise that its not best to look at this as an “agent” but you might be able to respect your options to us, and you should share this with us so we can help advise. The “offer” is not really a space to bargain, and you can tell if the coach is doing what he can to get you there if its within his means. Please, take to us for advice!

 

RESPOND TO EVERY EMAIL YOU RECEIVE, and CC us!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

An Example of the layout:

 

TO: (Coaches emails, all you can find for that particular school)

CC: (mnselectloons@gmail.com, Loons Coach)

From: (player personal account

 

Subject: John Doe, Highlight Reel, 2019 Attack/All Conf/6`0 180 lbs/4.0 GPA/ St. Paul MN—(Strengths keep short)

 

Coach Porter and staff

 

Hello coach my name is John Doe. (Short intro. Mention your position and grad year. Mention your interest in their lacrosse program and school, and maybe some strong points that stand out in their program and why you desire that particular location. Pull in their interest by showing your interest with maturity)

 

Next paragraph needs to show your strengths in lacrosse. Your intent should not be to “brag” about yourself, but “explain” what type of player you are…size, position again. Your club program affiliation as well as your high school team. What you have done for your program and accolades if you have them.

 

List of Strengths and Accolades CLEARLY shown- Bullet Points are a great way to show (strongest highest)

• 2016 MSHSL ALL Conf
• 30 Goals, 10 assist- 14 games
• Varsity Starter
• Most Improved player Award
• 0 GPA
• any AP or Honors Classes
• any Academic honors or special classes
• any other sports and accolades
• any community involvement programs or volunteering

 

HIGHLIGHT REEL- IN BOLD WITH “HIGHLIGHT REEL” labeled in front

 

Next paragraph speak on your academic efforts and strengths. Also mention any involvement in the community you may have along with volunteering opportunities. What else are you doing outside of your current or past program to improve in the game. TELL THEM WHAT YOU DO TO IMPROVE (ie weight lift, other sports) AND THE TIME YOU PUT IN TO EARN THE OPPOURTUNITY TO BE SEEN, do you put in the time it takes to play at the level you desire???- Here is where that can be seen.

 

List events where you can be seen:

2016 Summer Events

• Chicago Lacrosse Cup- Date and Location
• ADRLN Shootout- Date and Location
• Hotbeds- Date and Location
• Individual Events/Showcases- Date and Location
• List or post any recruiting aid service you might have

 

Last paragraph mention what number and or team you are on if you have that info. Give your club coaches information and program directors information here to aid in networking for you.

 

Sincerely,

John Doe

 

 

 

EXAMPLES OF SOME LETTERS WRITTEN IN THE PAST

 

“My name is XXXXX XXXX and I am going into my Senior year (grad year 2014) at Central High School in St. Paul, Minnesota. I am contacting you because I am interested in your school’s academic areas of study, and your lacrosse program, at New York Institute of Technology.

 

I am a 6'2'', 195 lbs attack for the St. Paul Celts (MBSLA). I also play for the traveling team Minnesota Loons Select. During the season with St. Paul Lacrosse I was my team's leading point scorer. I love the sport and I have loved my high school lacrosse experience. I would very much like to continue that love into college, no matter how much work it takes.

 

Accolade/Accomplishment:

All-American (2013)

All-State, All-Conf (x3)

Team Captain (x3)

Team MVP (x2)

35 goals 25 asst. 2013

Highlight Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s6-4OAY5yOM

As a student I am constantly working harder to improve my knowledge and my performance. I currently have a 3.2 GPA and it is continuing to rise. I took the SAT this fall and got a 1590. NYIT's Psychology Program looks like a great program, which would be great for me because that is the field of study that I would like to pursue.

My contact information will be below, along with my highlight video. If you have any questions I would be happy to answer them over phone or email. Thank you very much for your time and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

 

Sincerely,

 

XXXXX XXXX

 

Highlight Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s6-4OAY5yOM

Regular Season Coaches Number: (Ben Mooney) XXXXXXXXXX

Off-Season Coaches Number: (Brandon Husak) 651-402-0459

Phone Number: XXXXXXXXXX

Email: XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Address: 844 Goodrich Avenue Saint Paul, Minnesota

Jersey Number: 40 (MN Loons Select U17”

 

“Dear ......

My name is XXXX XXXXXXX I play close defense for the varsity team in White Bear Lake, Minn. The reason I am writing to you is because I am interested in attending your school for study and playing lacrosse. I’d like to talk to you about both if you’re willing.

 

I am going to be a senior at White Bear High and have a 3.4 GPA. This semester I was in two Honors classes consisting of math and science, both areas I want to continue with in college. Even further in depth, i would like to get into the engineering field. 

 

Some things about my personal life: I am 6-4 and 175 pounds (still getting bigger), this will be my second year as captain of the lacrosse team and was coached for two years by Joe Cinosky.  Our high school team had an 11-3 record and narrowly missed an opportunity to play in the section championship. We are looking to have a very strong season next year after only losing three seniors.

 

Some of my accolades after this spring season include:

• 1st team All-State    -1st team All-Section    -1st team All-Conference
• #1 In groundballs in the state of MN with 113   
• Team Defensive MVP            -Two time captain
• 11 goals and 12 assists during the regular season.
• Honorable Mention on com as one of top 25 players in the west.

 

Also a link to a highlight real of me playing lacrosse is below. If you would like to see more game film, feel free to contact me.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wSK8hp5l9-c

 

I work hard at improving my game year-round and include weight-lifting and other sports. (I am currently practicing with the varsity football team as a starting tight-end/WR and lettered in cross country last year). In the offseason I was in an Acceleration conditioning program with our school’s track sprint coach, and i clocked a 4.6 in the 40-yard dash. I can bench 215 lbs. (max), rep 225 lbs. 10 times squatting, and clean 205 (max).

 

Over this summer I will be playing as #3 with the MN Select Loons Gold Team coached by Brandon Husak (MNselectloons@gmail.com). I will also be traveling to a tournament on my own without a team. The tournaments include:

• The Denver Shootout on June 15 - June 17.
• Warrior Vail Lacrosse Tournament on June 18 - June 21.
• The Tri-State National tournament on July 6 - July 8.
• Lastly I will be attending the Top 205 West Tournament on July 18 - July 21 in Denver.

 

I am very interested in an engineering degree, and would love to talk about the programs at your school.

Coach, I hope to hear from you. You can contact me at….

 

Dear Coaches Woods, Abruzzini and Popelar,

 

My name is XXXXXX and I am interested in Colorado College and its lacrosse program.  I am a 2017 attack from Minneapolis, Minnesota and I attend XXXXX School in XXXXX. Along with looking at your school for lacrosse, I am also interested in a number of academic majors offered by Colorado College, including Economics. I am very intrigued by the one class at a time program at Colorado College.

 

A few things about me:

-       2017 HS graduation year

-       3 season athlete (Lacrosse, Hockey and Soccer)

-       2 year starter for XXXXXX’s Varsity lacrosse team

-       38 points sophomore year (21 goals and 17 assists)

-       51 career points

-       2^nd team All-Section

-       1^st team All-Conference

-       3.34 GPA

-       Voted by teammates as 2016 captain

 

I also play for the Minnesota Loons Select Lacrosse program and am the captain of U16 Black Loons select summer team (#X). This summer I will be attending the tournaments below and would greatly appreciate it if you attend any of the events to watch me play.  The link to my highlight reel is also below. Please feel free to reach out to me at any time.

 

I will be attending these events over the 2015 summer:

Chicago Lacrosse Cup June 15^th - 17^th

Adrenaline Elite Shootout July 10^th - 12^th

Notre Dame Recruiting Camp July 23^rd-26^th

 

Sincerely,

XXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXX

 

EXAMPLE TO A RESPONSE AFTER RECEIVING AN EMAIL FROM A COACH...

 

“Dear Mr. Tiffany,

I want to thank you for your email.

 

 Yes you are correct; I am facing one of the biggest decisions of my life. I am exploring all of my opportunities and options, both as a student and as a lacrosse player.

 

 I want to pursue a business/management degree. I want to use my leadership skills in my chosen career path. I am going to continue my research on Brown University to see how your university will coincide with my goals both on and off the lacrosse field.

 

 When I read your quote about Thomas Muldoon, it made me think back over my years of athletics and academics. My 8th grade lacrosse coach had a team rule. It said, “If any player works harder then Trenton in the conditioning portion of practice that player will not have to do conditioning tomorrow.” I have always pushed myself to be the best player I can be. I enjoy using my experience as a lacrosse player to help coach youth teams.

 

 At the end of my sophomore year of high school, my school recognized me as a person who has gone over and above of what was asked of him to do in the community. My school presented me with the “Outstanding Service to the Community” award.

 

 My high school lacrosse team went to the state tournament last year. Being chosen as team captain for this year, I hope to help lead my team to the state tournament again.

 

 Mr. Tiffany, I am always open to guidance. If you could refer me to a contact at your university that I could call and talk to about academic options, it would be greatly appreciated.

 

 I will forward my mid-term grades and Sat/Act scores to you as they become available. I will forward to you any academic information that will help you in your decision-making process. Thank you for your time.

Sincerely,

XXXXXXX XXXX”