how to try out for an nll team

3 min read 07-02-2025

Meta Description: Ready to chase your NLL dreams? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about NLL tryouts: from assessing your skills and finding tryout opportunities to acing the drills and making a lasting impression. Learn about the physical and mental preparation needed, plus insider tips for success! Get started on your journey to the National Lacrosse League today!

Assessing Your Readiness for NLL Tryouts

Before diving into the tryout process, honestly assess your skills. The NLL is the highest level of professional indoor lacrosse. Competition is fierce. Are you ready?

Key Skills to Evaluate:

Shooting Accuracy and Power: Can you consistently score from various angles and distances?
Passing Precision: Are your passes accurate and timely, even under pressure?
Stick Handling: Can you maintain possession while dodging defenders?
Defensive Skills: Are you proficient at checking, causing turnovers, and playing solid defense?
Footwork and Agility: Do you have the speed and agility to evade opponents and transition quickly?
Physical Fitness: Indoor lacrosse is incredibly demanding. Can you handle the pace and intensity?

Honesty is Key:

If you're lacking in certain areas, focus on improvement before trying out. Consider training with a personal coach to refine your skills. Trying out unprepared won't help you.

Finding NLL Tryout Opportunities

NLL tryouts aren't publicized like other sports. Information is often found through word-of-mouth or on team websites.

Networking:

Connect with current and former NLL players. They might know about upcoming opportunities. Attend lacrosse events to network with coaches and scouts.

Team Websites and Social Media:

Regularly check the official websites of NLL teams. Many will post tryout announcements on their social media channels. Be proactive!

Lacrosse News Outlets:

Stay informed through lacrosse news websites and publications. They sometimes announce tryouts.

Preparing for Your NLL Tryout: Physical and Mental Training

Preparation is crucial. NLL players are elite athletes. Your fitness and mental toughness need to match the level.

Physical Conditioning:

Endurance Training: Focus on interval training, sprints, and other high-intensity exercises. Indoor lacrosse demands a high level of fitness.
Strength and Conditioning: Develop strength in your upper and lower body. This helps with shooting, checking, and dodging.
Agility Drills: Improve quickness and agility through cone drills, ladder drills, and other agility-focused exercises.
Specific Lacrosse Training: Practice shooting, passing, dodging, and defensive techniques regularly.

Mental Preparation:

Confidence: Believe in your abilities. Mental fortitude is just as important as physical skill.
Focus: Stay focused during drills and scrimmages. Minimize distractions.
Coachability: Be receptive to feedback from coaches. Show that you're willing to learn and improve.

Acing the NLL Tryout: Performance and Impression

The tryout is your chance to shine. Make every rep count!

Key Performance Indicators:

Consistency: Show consistent performance throughout the tryout. One great play isn't enough.
Effort: Coaches notice players who hustle and never give up.
Teamwork: Demonstrate good sportsmanship and teamwork.
Positive Attitude: Maintain a positive attitude even if things aren't going your way.

Making a Lasting Impression:

Punctuality: Arrive on time, prepared, and ready to go.
Respect: Show respect for coaches, teammates, and opponents.
Communication: Communicate effectively with your teammates on the field.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about NLL Tryouts

Q: How often are NLL tryouts held?

A: Tryout schedules vary by team. Check team websites regularly.

Q: What equipment do I need for an NLL tryout?

A: Bring your lacrosse stick, helmet, gloves, shoulder pads, elbow pads, and protective cup.

Q: What if I don't make the team?

A: Don't be discouraged! Keep improving your skills and try again next year.

Q: Are there different tryouts for different positions?

A: While some teams may have specific positional tryouts, most are open to all positions.

Q: How long do NLL tryouts typically last?

A: They vary but often include drills, scrimmages, and assessments.

Conclusion: Your Journey to the NLL

Getting into the NLL requires dedication, hard work, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Follow these steps, and you'll increase your chances of making your dream a reality. Remember, consistent effort and a never-give-up attitude are your greatest allies on this journey to the National Lacrosse League.