In lacrosse, coaches do much more than teach lacrosse skills or plan Game Day plays. They serve as mentors who guide young athletes through important lessons that extend far beyond the field. For our young players, this mentorship is particularly impactful as they develop their sense of self, their values, and the habits that will shape their futures.

At Big Walnut Lacrosse, we believe that coaching is about inspiring players not only to grow as athletes but also to grow as people. Here’s how coaches make a lasting difference by mentoring beyond the game.

1. Teaching Teamwork and Collaboration

Lacrosse is a true team sport, requiring players to work together seamlessly. Coaches help kids understand the importance of:

• Trusting teammates: Players learn to rely on one another, whether it’s passing the ball or defending the goal.
• Playing their role: Coaches emphasize that every position matters, teaching kids to appreciate how their contributions fit into a larger goal.
• Supporting others: Encouragement on the field fosters camaraderie and shows players how to lift others up in all aspects of life.

These lessons build a foundation for collaboration in school, friendships, and later in professional environments.

2. Building Resilience

Losing a game or making a mistake on the field can feel overwhelming, especially for young athletes. At Big Walnut Lacrosse, you will hear our coaches say, "We win or we learn." A good coach uses these moments, both good and bad, as opportunities to teach:

• Perseverance: Players learn that setbacks are temporary and can be overcome with effort and determination.
• Emotional control: Coaches help kids manage frustration or disappointment in constructive ways, building emotional intelligence.
• Growth mindset: Mistakes are reframed as opportunities to improve, showing kids that failure isn’t the end — it’s a step toward success.

Resilience developed through sports equips kids to handle challenges in school and life with confidence and poise.

3. Instilling Discipline and Responsibility

In lacrosse, every practice and game requires commitment. Coaches help young athletes learn:

• Time management: Balancing school, family, and sports teaches kids to plan ahead and fulfill their responsibilities.
• Accountability: Showing up on time, being prepared, having all of their gear, and giving full effort fosters a sense of ownership over their actions.
• Work ethic: Coaches model the value of hard work, showing players that success — on the field or in life — comes from consistent effort.

These habits not only make players better athletes but also help them thrive in academics and future endeavors.

4. Encouraging Leadership and Character

Lacrosse provides many opportunities for kids to lead, even at a young age. Coaches guide players to:

• Lead by example: Whether it’s helping a teammate or staying positive after a loss, kids learn how to inspire others through their actions.
• Communicate effectively: Coaches encourage players to express themselves respectfully and work through conflicts as a team.
• Develop integrity: Emphasizing fair play and honesty teaches kids to value doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.

Through lacrosse, coaches plant the seeds of leadership that grow as players take on more responsibility in school and their communities.

5. Creating a Supportive Environment

A great coach doesn’t just focus on the scoreboard — they focus on the well-being of each player. Coaches:

• Build confidence: Positive reinforcement helps kids believe in their abilities and take pride in their growth.
• Celebrate effort: Coaches remind players that trying their best is just as important as the outcome.
• Provide mentorship: A coach can be a trusted adult who listens, encourages, and helps kids navigate challenges both on and off the field.

This sense of support and belonging makes lacrosse a safe space where kids can thrive and feel valued.

A Lasting Impact

Long after the final whistle blows, the lessons kids learn from their lacrosse coaches stay with them. Whether it’s the value of hard work, the importance of teamwork, or the resilience to bounce back from setbacks, these lessons shape players into well-rounded individuals ready to take on life’s challenges.

At Big Walnut Lacrosse, we are proud of our coaches who mentor with purpose and inspire young players to grow in character as well as skill. Their influence reaches far beyond the field, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of every athlete they work with.

Ready to give your child the gift of mentorship through lacrosse? Register today for our spring season and join a program that develops leaders both on and off the field.