Playing D3 Lacrosse after limited high school time

Athletic Recruits
1

So I am getting ready to start my fourth year on a lacrosse program that has seen great success in the past several seasons. Up until recently, I never thought about playing in college. I thought I would always end up playing club as most schools I looked at were D1 or didn’t have a varsity program. Several months ago I found a D3 school that I loved, and decided to apply ED. After research, I found out this school is a top program that often recruits potential D1 prospects, something I am far from. I have a little bit of varsity time under my belt, where I played mostly a depth role. I played behind two D1 recruits, 2 D2 recruits and two D3 recruits. This season, however, I am expecting to get a lot more playing time. Recently, at a fall ball tournament with my school team, I stood out as one of the top offensive players.

I was wondering what streps could be taken to join the team barring my admission to the school. I emailed the coach asking the same thing, and have received no response (which doesn’t surprise me considering I am not a favorable player at the moment). Would having to try out for the team be my only option, or would it be possible to be offered a spot on the team if I am successful this season. I have fallen in love with this school and the thought of playing the sport I love at it, and want to do what I can to be able to join the team.

2

If you get in ED, reach out again to the coach. Realistically, you are too late to be recruited (and get support), so there is no point in him talking to you about the team until he knows you will be attending.

At that point, you could send him some highlights and ask what the process is for walk-ons. Many schools have a big roster/practice squad, so it’s possible that he will welcome/need players in addition to recruits. How that will happen is anyone’s guess but some tryout is likely to be involved. Maybe you’d be invited to practice with the team this spring? Or join captain’s practices next fall? Or perhaps he can see you at a tournament when he is looking at younger recruiting prospects. My guess, though, is you won’t be offered a roster spot based on film and resume alone.

3

The top D3 teams are full of players who could have played D1. Often they are a little smaller and a little quicker, but the stick skills are there.

It really depends on the team you are trying to get on. Middlebury or Gettysburg? It’s unlikely to get a walk on position (if the coach even has try-outs). A team that is ranked more in like #15 or 20? Keep following up with the coach.

Good luck on your season.