Youth Inc. Recommends: Four Resources to Help Tailor Practice to Different Learning Styles and Skill Levels

Coaches today don’t just manage drills — they manage people. Every player learns differently, and skill levels can vary wildly on a single team. These four resources offer strategies, drills, and perspective to help coaches run inclusive, effective practices for everyone on the field — from brand-new beginners to seasoned club vets.

Coaching Players of Mixed Skill Levels

What it is: A guide from PCA on how to structure practice and give feedback when players are at different stages of development. 

Why we like it: It’s clear, coach-friendly, and rooted in research — offering real solutions for keeping advanced players challenged while helping newer ones grow.

Creative Lacrosse Training: Developing Well-Rounded, Creative Players

What it is: An opinion piece pushing back against the overemphasis on travel tournaments — and making a strong case for player development through creative, competitive practices.

Why we like it: It’s a rallying cry for coaches to actually teach the game. The article critiques over-specialization and encourages reps, competition, and freedom to experiment — especially in practice environments where players can learn to play both sides of the ball and unlock new parts of their game.

BTB Lax: Coaching Across Ages and Experience Levels

What it is: A coaching talk from someone who's worked at every level, from D1 Georgetown to absolute beginners — all in the same year.

Why we like it: Miller shares honest insights on patience, clarity, and the importance of coaching every kid — not just the best ones. Especially helpful for volunteers and multi-level coaches.

The Best Lacrosse Drills for All Skill Levels

What it is: A list of flexible, fundamentals-based drills that work for beginners and elite players alike.

Why we like it: It’s a practical resource you can bring straight to the field. Great for designing a practice with mixed-age or coed groups, too.