finding a spot

at the youth level, playing time should be more important than wins. the problem is not winning is hard on teams.

its very hard to throw in a 3rd line group of players when the game is on the line. over the years i have tried several methods to evenly distribute playing time, it is always challenging from a coaches perspective.

here are a few tips which may make the task less painful.

1. determine before the season starts what your team goal is. do you want to win games? or do you want to get kids on the field? let players and parents know before you start the season. if you are going to double shift first line middies or give your best players a ton of minutes, it cannot be a secret. parents may opt not to sign up if their kids are not guaranteed playing time.if your philosophy is geared towards instructional and skill development , you have to stick to the program as well. waining back and forth will result in agony for parents and player alike.

be realistic. it is next to impossible to guarantee every player equal minutes.

2. if you have way too many kids, consider a second or third team. if that is not possible make cuts. 30 kids on a sideline is never a good scenario.
if forming "A" "B" and/or "C" squads is an option, and you can get coaches, go for it. my rule of thumb is 18 minimum, 25 maximum. cutting is not the end of the world, some of the best players in the world were cut a one time or another.

you can have more on a team is you have the luxury of a long stick middie or 2 and a 2nd goalie. some believe 15 is enough, but if you factor in no shows, other sports, injuries or other issues that effect attendance, you may end up at a game with 11 kids showing up. I rarely see 100% attendance at this level.

3. specialized positions. if you are blessed with too many lacrosse players, or need a place to put a kids who needs to gain some confidence try these:

FOGO - face off, get off. if a player is OK with this role, assign one player this important role or rotate a few players in each game

long stick middies - a great position that requires a great stick, speed and intelligence. try not to give this spot to a slower kid or one with an average stick


man down defense specialists- that 4th pole that is still learning? put him on the crease or at the lefty shooter spot. have them call off the middies at get it set up- its a great role i have had great sucess in the past with my "man down captain"

defensive midfielders,- not real good with the stick but a great athelete? D Middie! beleive it or not, not every kid in the world wants to get a goal, some would much rather be a stopper

man up players- got a lazy kid with a cannon? let him rip it on the EMO.

back up goalies - this is a great spot for a kid who will accept the challenge. make sure to teach the position in detail, and to work them in slowly. see my youth goalie post for some ideas.

crease attack - the best place in the world for that kid who won't run or doesn't have the world best stick skills. teach to set picks, screen the goalie, grab some ground balls, catch turn and shoot, or get a few garbage goals.

more next week...