Why children should try lacrosse as multi-sport athletes

While many parents and coaches recognize the benefits of introducing children to a variety of sports at a young age—as children become competitive and specialized in a single sport, it can be easy to forget the benefits of being a multi-sport athlete. 

Specializing in a single sport at a young age can lead to burnout, both physically and mentally. By playing multiple sports, children can avoid overuse injuries, maintain a love for physical activity, and improve performance in their primary sport.

Lacrosse is a great choice for young athletes who want to develop multiple athletic skills. Canadian-born NHL players recommend playing box lacrosse in the summer to improve hockey skills but hockey players are not the only athletes that can benefit from picking up a lacrosse stick.

Canadian basketball star Steve Nash played lacrosse before choosing basketball as the focal point of his athletic pursuits. Michael Phelps claims lacrosse was his biggest sport before capturing his first national record in the 100-meter butterfly and becoming the most decorated Olympian of all time.

Here are some reasons why young children should try lacrosse as multi-sport athletes:

Develops Hand-Eye Coordination: Lacrosse requires players to catch and throw a small ball with a stick while running, dodging, and weaving through defenders. This develops hand-eye coordination, which is a fundamental skill in many sports.

Improves Balance and Agility: Lacrosse involves constant movement and changes in direction, which improves a child's balance and agility. These skills are essential in many other sports, such as soccer, basketball, and football.

Builds Strength and Endurance: Lacrosse is a physically demanding sport that requires players to run, sprint, and engage in physical contact with other players. This builds strength and endurance, which are important for overall fitness and many other sports.

Teaches Teamwork and Communication: Lacrosse is a team sport that requires players to communicate and work together to achieve a common goal. Learning to communicate effectively and work with others is a valuable skill that translates to many areas of life.

Provides a Fun and Social Environment: Lacrosse is a fun and social sport that allows children to make friends and build relationships with their teammates. This can lead to increased confidence, self-esteem, and a sense of belonging.

Our learn-to-play and Local League programs are a great starting point for young children who are just getting into the sport of lacrosse. By introducing children to a variety of sports, parents and coaches can help them develop well-rounded athletic abilities and a love for physical activity. So why not give it a try and see if box lacrosse is the right sport for your multi-sport athlete!