Free Play Academy Newsletter #13
Topics that will be covered:
1. How to build rapport with players.
2. Chris Fake of Notre Dame being a beast.
3. Get out the way of young players.
How to build rapport.
I’ll break this down into 2 ingredients, knowing the game & knowing how to communicate. We can have both but we MUST have at least one, otherwise you might as well be a pylon out on the field.
Know the game through the X’s & O’s aspect of the game, be able to dial up plays, define principles & speak to the nuances of the game at a technical level. This will catch the attention of the players.
Next, you must be able to communicate with the individual or individuals in front of you. Finding a way to put words together to make the players you’re on the field with feel good is an undervalued skill. You could be dumb as a rock when it comes to the game, but if you’re able to genuinely connect & make the player’s experience better out on the field you will have the respect of the players.
Chris Fake of Notre Dame being a beast.
Chris Fake powers through this on-ball pick and doesn't even lose a step.
Get out the way of young players.
A reason to get out of the way of children.
The obsession with technical/fundamental skills in sport is hurting participation through a lack of fun and enjoyment. Children go through growth at wildly different rates and at various junctures find their own functional solutions to problems posed.
As adults/coaches we need to design environments that are safe but facilitate exploration, not following an NGB’s (almost always flawed) step by step manual
The Free Game
The part of lacrosse that is played with the mind.
What will be covered are the 8 Principles of Performance.
Any lacrosse player can own the 1st ever sport psychology methodology specific to the game of Lacrosse.
This purchase will include a FREE consultation with Coach McDonnell via in-person or Zoom.
Here is a preview.
The cost is $24.99
You can purchase The Free Game here.
Lean in, do the work, stay focused and become uncommon.
Have a great week.