As parents, we love to see our kids succeed. Whether it's scoring a goal, getting extra playing time, or making a big stop on defense, those moments are exciting—and they matter. But when it comes to real success in youth sports, especially in a team game like lacrosse, there's something even more valuable than stats or standout performances: leadership.
The great news? Your child doesn’t need to be the best player on the team to be a great leader.
In fact, some of the most impactful leaders aren’t the ones with the most goals—they're the ones who consistently show effort, stay positive, support their teammates, and lead by example. And those are qualities that can be learned, practiced, and nurtured—by any player, at any skill level.
Here are a few ways your child can lead on their lacrosse team, no matter where they fall on the roster:
1. Effort Is Leadership
One of the simplest but most powerful ways to lead is through effort. Players who hustle during every drill, stay focused through tough practices, and don’t give up during games often inspire their teammates without even realizing it. Help your child understand that showing up and giving 100%—even when they’re tired or things aren’t going their way—is a form of leadership that coaches value deeply.
2. Being Coachable Builds Respect
Leadership starts with listening. Encourage your child to take feedback seriously, stay engaged during instruction, and be open to learning—even when it’s hard. When a player is coachable, they build trust with their coaches and set the tone for others.
3. Team-First Attitude
A player who celebrates others’ successes, picks up a teammate after a mistake, or helps clean up after practice is already leading. These small actions teach humility, empathy, and responsibility—and they help create a stronger, more supportive team culture.
4. Positive Communication
Leadership doesn’t always mean being the loudest. It means being intentional. Help your child learn to encourage others, speak up on the field, and keep communication positive. Even a simple “good job” or “I’ve got your back” can change a teammate’s mindset.
5. Consistency Counts
Being dependable—bringing the right gear, arriving on time, following through on responsibilities—teaches accountability. Coaches often rely on these “steady” players as quiet leaders, even if they’re not scoring goals or making highlight plays.
6. Sportsmanship Sets the Standard
Leadership shows most when emotions run high. How your child handles a tough loss, a bad call, or a frustrating moment says a lot about their character. Encourage them to be respectful of coaches, refs, teammates, and opponents. It’s a skill that goes far beyond the lacrosse field.
Supporting Your Child's Leadership Journey
As parents, we can help by recognizing and praising the right things—not just goals or game time, but effort, attitude, and team-first behavior. Ask questions like:
- What did you do today to help your team?
- Who did you encourage or support during practice?
- What’s something you learned today from your coach or teammates?
By reinforcing these values at home, we help our kids understand that leadership is something they can choose every day—not something they have to wait for.
Final Thought
Not every child will be the top scorer. Not every player will be the star. But every young athlete can be a leader.
And as parents, one of the most powerful things we can do is help our kids see their value—not just in how they play, but in how they show up for others.
Because in youth sports, the best teams aren’t made up of just great players. They’re built on great teammates. And great teammates become great leaders.