Closed vs. Open Lacrosse Practices: Pros and Cons for High School Teams

When coaching high school lacrosse, one key decision is whether to hold closed lacrosse practices (restricted to team members and coaching staff) or open lacrosse practices (allowing parents, supporters, or even media to observe). Each approach has its pros and cons, and the best choice depends on your lacrosse team’s needs and goals. Here are important considerations to help you decide.

Closed Lacrosse Practices

Advantages:

1. Enhanced Focus and Concentration:

• Players can fully concentrate on lacrosse drills and instructions without external distractions.

• Coaches can address sensitive lacrosse-related issues or correct mistakes privately.

2. Strategic Privacy:

• New lacrosse plays, formations, or strategies can be developed without exposure to opponents.

• Reduces the risk of rivals scouting your lacrosse strategies.

3. Team Cohesion:

• Builds unity and trust among lacrosse players and coaches.

• Provides a safe space for lacrosse players to express themselves and take risks without outside judgment.

4. Reduced Pressure:

• Lacrosse players may feel less self-conscious and more willing to make mistakes and learn.

• Minimizes the performance anxiety that can arise from being watched during lacrosse practice.

Disadvantages:

1. Lack of Transparency:

• Parents and the lacrosse community might feel excluded, leading to misunderstandings or mistrust.

• Can create a perception of secrecy that isn’t conducive to building community support around the lacrosse program.

2. Missed Support Opportunities:

• Families miss out on seeing their child’s lacrosse progress and dedication firsthand.

• Less opportunity to build a supportive fan base for the lacrosse team.

3. Reduced Accountability:

• Without observers, there may be less incentive for lacrosse coaches and players to perform at their best during practice.

Open Lacrosse Practices

Advantages:

1. Transparency and Trust:

• Builds confidence among parents and the community in the lacrosse coaching staff and program.

• Encourages open communication and feedback from parents and supporters.

2. Community Engagement:

• Increases interest and support for the lacrosse program within the school and community.

• Provides opportunities for younger students to become interested in lacrosse and potentially join the program in the future.

3. Motivation for Players:

• Lacrosse players may work harder knowing they are being watched by parents or potential supporters.

• Positive reinforcement from observers can boost morale during lacrosse practice.

4. Parental Involvement:

• Parents gain a better understanding of the challenges their child faces in lacrosse.

• Opportunities for parents to volunteer or assist with logistics for the lacrosse team.

Disadvantages:

1. Distractions:

• Lacrosse players may become distracted by spectators, affecting practice quality.

• Lacrosse coaches might find it harder to maintain focus and authority during practice.

2. Exposure of Strategies:

• Risk of opponents gaining insights into lacrosse plays and tactics.

• Harder to keep new lacrosse strategies confidential when spectators are present.

3. Increased Pressure on Players:

• Some lacrosse players may feel added stress, which could hinder performance and learning.

• Fear of making mistakes in front of an audience could limit risk-taking during lacrosse practice.

4. Potential Interference:

• Well-meaning parents may offer unsolicited advice or criticism, which can distract from the lacrosse practice.

• Managing crowd control and ensuring the lacrosse practice runs smoothly can become an additional challenge.

Key Lacrosse Practice Considerations

• Team Dynamics:

• Assess whether your lacrosse team thrives under observation or prefers the privacy of closed practices.

• Consider the maturity level of your lacrosse players and their ability to handle distractions.

• Coaching Style:

• Reflect on whether open practices align with your lacrosse coaching philosophy.

• Determine if you can effectively manage the lacrosse team with spectators present.

• Program Goals:

• Decide if building community support for the lacrosse program is a priority.

• Evaluate the importance of keeping lacrosse strategies confidential.

• Compromise Solutions:

• Implement a hybrid approach, with mostly closed lacrosse practices and occasional open sessions.

• Host special events, like parent nights or open lacrosse scrimmages.

• Communication:

• If opting for closed lacrosse practices, maintain open communication with parents and the lacrosse community.

• Provide regular updates through newsletters, meetings, or digital platforms to keep them informed about the lacrosse team’s progress.

• School Policies and Culture:

• Ensure your lacrosse practice decision aligns with school regulations and the broader athletic program’s norms.

• Consider the expectations of administrators and the wider lacrosse community.

Conclusion

Choosing between closed and open lacrosse practices at the high school level requires balancing the benefits of focus and strategic privacy with the advantages of transparency and community involvement. By carefully considering your lacrosse team’s unique needs, coaching objectives, and the values of your school community, you can make an informed decision that enhances both player development and the success of your lacrosse program.