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Thursday, October 24, 2013

Recruiting 101: The Need For Speed

It should come as no surprise to anyone that the game of Lacrosse has gone through a radical change over the last 5-6 years in terms of the type of recruit who ascends to the top of the depth chart. Speed and agility are the common denominators amongst the top recruits.   

Lacrosse is no different than any other sport at the college level. The recruited athletes are bigger, faster and quicker today than they were 4-5 years ago. To a certain extent, the changes in the dynamics of the game of lacrosse are more dramatic as a result of the explosive growth. More and more talent is entering the pool.
 
Everyone is looking for the next Max Seibald, the former All American at Cornell. He stands about 6’1 and weighs about 190 and is powerful, fast, agile, and possesses great stick skills. Rumor has it that he has been clocked at close to a 4.5 in the 40. However, Seibald is at the top of the gene pool and as much as coaches are setting the bar looking for a Seibald type recruit, there are just not that many kids like him. So. in lieu of finding another Seibald, the coaches will look for the best athlete as defined again, by speed and quickness.
 
Although I am a major proponent of weight training, an increase in muscularity alone rarely translates into a higher recruiting profile versus that of an increase in speed. Yes, the players seem to be getting bigger, and yes they also seem to be more dedicated to weight training, but the ability to cut on a dime and change direction are ultimately what will distinguish one recruit from another.
 
There is a common misperception that speed can not be taught. In fact, studies have shown that you can in fact convert a preponderance of slow twitch muscles to fast twitch, with speed specific training. This conversion of muscle fiber can be accomplished through the use of plyometric drills and related equipment. The success of this conversion process is contingent upon consistent and regular training. Developing speed and quickness takes real dedication and determination. Of course there are limits to how significantly you can change the time in your 40 yard dash or your lateral movement.
 
The tremendous growth of speed training facilities and clinics is an out growth of the real results that these facilities produce for their dedicated athletes. We have all read the stories about the PRE COMBINE work outs that N.F.L. hopefuls subscribe to. For these elite athletes, 2/10ths of a second off their 40 yard dash can translate literally into millions of dollars in either a higher signing bonus or a dramatic move upward in the draft.
 
If in fact you are not in a position to take advantage of a speed trainer or a facility in your area, the next best alternative is self instruction. One particular video I have encouraged my players to purchase is:

The Freak of Training - Adam Archuleta

It is an absolutely invaluable video in terms of drills, technique and inspiration. Archuleta ,who is in the NFL, made himself into a true speed demon through a rigorous work out routine utilizing plyometrics. BUY IT TODAY! The recruiting circuit is around the corner...not a minute to waste. There are numerous clips available on you tube that instruct how to increase speed. Additionally, there are now  multitude of products available for speed training work outs.

Don`t let a minute pass on these work outs ..the recruiting season is now year round..so every work out counts!!

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