Free Play Academy Newsletter #50

Topics will be covered:

  1. What does it means to play instinctually.

  2. World Lacrosse Box Lacrosse Championships.

  3. The Free Play Academy Performance 6: Nutrition.


What does it mean to play instinctually.

To play a sport instinctually means to rely on intuition and automatic reactions rather than conscious thought or deliberate decision-making.

Athletes who play instinctually often have a deep understanding of the game, honed through experience and repetition, allowing them to anticipate situations, react quickly, and make split-second decisions without overthinking.

This kind of play often comes from muscle memory, game sense, and the ability to read the flow of the game naturally.

Instinctual play can result in fluid, spontaneous actions that feel effortless and in sync with the rhythm of the game.

At the foundation of the Free Play Academy, this is our mission for all lacrosse players!


World Lacrosse Box Lacrosse Championships.

The World Lacrosse Box Lacrosse Championships is an international lacrosse tournament organized by World Lacrosse, the sport's global governing body, that will take place September 20-29th in Utica, New York. This championship focuses specifically on box lacrosse, which is a faster-paced version of the game played indoors in an enclosed area, often a hockey rink with artificial turf.

The tournament serves as the highest level of international competition for box lacrosse and occurs every four years, similar to other global sports championships. It showcases top talent from around the world and contributes to the growth and visibility of box lacrosse on the international stage.

Enduring the last 10-month tryout process, I have been humbly selected to represent Ireland!

I am now on the quest of fundraising to support the needs of the team to help with the financial burden placed on us athletes. The funds raised will go directly to offsetting the team’s operating costs. These costs include; Athlete Accommodation, Meals, Logistics, Equipment, Uniforms, Apparel, Training Camps, etc.

Please consider donating: https://gofund.me/76e58d43

Thank you! 🇮🇪🍀


The Free Play Academy Performance 6: Nutrition.

Covering the third of the 6 Free Play Academy Performance 6: Nutrition.

Just like filling up our cars with gas in order to drive them, we must fill our bodies up with proper fuel via real food!

How “bad” nutrition hurts our game:

  • Decreased Energy Levels: Inadequate intake of calories, carbohydrates, and healthy fats can lead to insufficient energy, causing fatigue and decreased stamina during training and competition.

  • Impaired Recovery: Without proper nutrients like protein, vitamins, and minerals, an athlete's body may struggle to repair muscles and tissues after intense physical activity, leading to longer recovery times and a higher risk of overtraining injuries.

  • Reduced Strength and Endurance: Nutrient deficiencies, such as a lack of iron, magnesium, or calcium, can weaken muscle function, reduce endurance, and affect overall strength and power, hampering performance.

  • Increased Injury Risk: Poor nutrition can lead to weaker bones, muscles, and connective tissues, making athletes more prone to injuries like fractures, strains, and sprains.

  • Mental Fatigue and Poor Focus: Insufficient intake of key nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids and B vitamins, can affect cognitive function, leading to poor concentration, decision-making, and mental stamina during competition.

How to properly “nourish” the body:

Balanced Macronutrients..

• Carbohydrates: Carbs are the primary source of energy, especially for high-intensity activities. Focus on complex carbohydrates like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, which provide sustained energy and important nutrients.

• Proteins: Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth. Include lean protein sources such as beef, poultry, fish, pork, lamb and eggs. Athletes generally need more protein than sedentary individuals.

• Fats: Healthy fats are important for long-term energy, hormone regulation, and cell function. Focus on good fats from sources like avocados, extra virgin olive oil, butter, ghee and fatty fish (like salmon).

  1. Start here:

    EAT WHEN YOU’RE HUNGER.

    EAT SIMPLE WHOLE FOODS.


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.


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Free Play Academy Newsletter #51

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Free Play Academy Newsletter #49