The Reality of D2 Women’s Lacrosse Recruiting, Florida vs California
When families talk about women’s lacrosse recruiting, most conversations start with Division 1. That is understandable. D1 is visible. It feels local. It feels attainable.
But when you actually look at roster math, participation numbers, and scholarship limits, a different picture shows up.
Let’s break it down.
Florida Women’s Lacrosse Recruiting Reality
Florida has five Division 1 women’s lacrosse programs:
University of Florida
Florida State University
Jacksonville University
University of South Florida
Stetson University
The average D1 roster size is about 38 players.
That gives Florida roughly 190 in state D1 roster spots at any given time.
Now compare that to participation.
More than 3,000 high school girls play lacrosse in Florida annually. Here is the key recruiting reality. Very few Florida high school players actually land on those Florida D1 rosters. Many go out of state. Many go Division 2.
Florida D2 Women’s Lacrosse Is Not a Backup
Florida has five Division 2 programs:
University of Tampa
Florida Southern College
Embry Riddle Aeronautical University
Palm Beach Atlantic University
Rollins College
Most D2 roster sizes sit between 28 and 32 players.
D2 women’s lacrosse programs are allowed 9.9 equivalency scholarships. Several Florida D2 programs are nationally ranked and compete at Final Four level. These are high level, competitive environments. For many Florida athletes, D2 is not a fallback option. It is the realistic high level lane.
Now Compare That to California
California has three Division 1 programs:
Stanford University
University of California, Berkeley
University of Southern California
Average roster size ranges from 38 to 42 players.
That creates roughly 115 to 125 total in state D1 roster spots. California has more than 5,000 girls playing high school lacrosse each year, and that number continues to grow.
California D2 programs:
Biola University
Concordia University Irvine
Two Division 2 programs in a massive state.
The Recruiting Math Matters
Florida:
5 D1 programs
5 D2 programs
Over 3,000 players
California:
3 D1 programs
2 D2 programsOver 5,000 players
Living in a hotbed state does not guarantee in state opportunity.
Florida players compete for limited D1 spots and strong D2 programs.
California players face even tighter in state options and are often forced to travel east for recruiting opportunities. What This Means for Women’s Lacrosse Recruiting. If you are serious about lacrosse recruiting, you need to think strategically.
Expand Your Geographic Radius Do not assume you will stay home. Many athletes must look out of state to find the right roster fit.
Understand D2 Scholarships Division 2 offers 9.9 equivalency scholarships. Coaches can divide that money across the roster. Many families build strong academic and athletic packages at D2 schools.
Evaluate Development and Fit Some D2 programs offer immediate playing time, strong coaching, and competitive schedules. For many athletes, that creates a better long term outcome than sitting deep on a D1 bench.
Focus on Recruiting Fit, Not Labels College lacrosse recruiting is about opportunity, development, and environment. The division name matters less than roster fit and coaching alignment.
D2 Women’s Lacrosse Is a Serious Pathway
Division 2 women’s lacrosse continues to rise in quality. In states like Florida, D2 programs regularly compete at a national level. In states like California, D2 spots are extremely limited and highly competitive.
If you are navigating lacrosse recruiting, you need clear information and honest math. Back Yard Sports Lacrosse helps families understand recruiting strategy, roster realities, scholarship structure, and long term fit. Because recruiting is not about chasing a logo. It is about building the right path. If you want help with lacrosse recruiting strategy, roster evaluation, or identifying realistic college targets, reach out to Back Yard Sports Lacrosse. Schedule a call with us HERE