Finding the Right Fit: Beyond Lacrosse

When the recruiting excitement is high, it’s easy to forget that college is about more than lacrosse. Coaches want athletes to think deeply about the academic and cultural fit just as much as the athletic one.

Student First, Athlete Second

• Does the program support your intended major?

• Will practice schedules interfere with labs or classes?

• Are there resources for tutoring or accommodations you may need?

A simple way to check: look at the roster. See what current athletes are studying and whether graduates have succeeded in your area of interest.

Culture Matters

Injury, limited playing time, or personal struggles will happen. What matters is how the program responds.

• Do teammates rally around each other?

• Do coaches value players even when they’re not on the field?

• Does the culture encourage resilience and growth?

The People Test

Sonia LaMonica put it best:

“You want to be around people who bring out your best and help you reach your potential.”

If you don’t feel that support on your visit, it may not be the right place—even if the facilities and gear look amazing.

Takeaway:

The right fit is about academics, culture, and people. Ask yourself honestly: Would I still want to be here if lacrosse was taken away tomorrow? If the answer is yes, you’re on the right track.