How to Prepare for a Lacrosse Showcase: A Complete Player Checklist

Standing out at a lacrosse showcase doesn’t start with the opening whistle.

It starts weeks before, with preparation.

Players who perform well at showcases aren’t just talented—they’re ready. They understand what’s expected, manage their energy, and approach the event with confidence and clarity.

Here’s a complete, practical checklist to help players prepare and perform at their best.

2–3 Weeks Before the Showcase

Focus on Game-Speed Fitness

You don’t need to reinvent your training—but you should prioritize:

  • Conditioning at game pace

  • Short bursts of high-intensity work

  • Stick work under pressure

Avoid heavy experimentation or overtraining.

Sharpen the Basics

College coaches expect clean fundamentals:

  • Strong first passes

  • Ground balls in traffic

  • Defensive footwork

  • Quick decision-making

Consistency matters more than expanding your skill set right before an event.

3–5 Days Before the Showcase

Dial in Recovery

This is not the time to exhaust yourself.

Prioritize:

  • Sleep

  • Hydration

  • Light mobility work

  • Mental prep

Arriving fresh is more important than squeezing in extra reps.

Review Your Role

Know:

  • Your position responsibilities

  • Your strengths

  • How you contribute without the ball

Trying to “do everything” often leads to mistakes.

Game Day Checklist

What to Bring

  • Full uniform + backup essentials

  • Extra stick (if possible)

  • Water, electrolytes, snacks

  • Cleats you trust

  • A calm, focused mindset

Warm-Up with Purpose

Coaches are already watching.

Focus on:

  • Clean reps

  • Communication

  • Body language

  • Confidence—not speed

Warm-ups set the tone for how you’ll play.

During the Games

Play Fast and Simple

  • Move the ball

  • Stay involved off-ball

  • Communicate early and often

  • Compete every possession

Trying to impress usually backfires. Playing the game the right way does not.

Control What You Can

You can’t control:

  • Playing time

  • Teammates

  • Calls

You can control:

  • Effort

  • Attitude

  • Focus

  • Response to adversity

Coaches notice this.

Between Games

Reset and Refuel

Use breaks to:

  • Hydrate

  • Eat

  • Stretch lightly

  • Mentally reset

Avoid negative self-talk or overanalyzing past plays.

After the Showcase

Reflect—Don’t Overreact

Ask yourself:

  • Did I compete consistently?

  • Did I communicate?

  • Did I play my role well?

One showcase is part of a longer journey—not the final verdict.

Final Thoughts

Preparation builds confidence—and confidence shows.

Players who stand out at showcases aren’t trying to be noticed.
They’re prepared, composed, and reliable.

That’s what college coaches trust.

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How to Stand Out at a Lacrosse Showcase: What College Coaches Actually Notice