The Backyard Advantage: Why Simple, Cost-Effective Lacrosse is Key for Youth Development
With over 25 years of experience as a coach and the founder of 360 Sports Services, I've witnessed a significant shift in youth sports. My sons, a 19-year-old (a current Division 1 Lacrosse player who only played two years of club), a 10-year-old, a 9-year-old duo, and a 4-year-old, constantly remind me to focus on the sports they love. Through observing their passion and my decades in sports, I've consistently learned that we've deviated too far from what truly benefits young athletes.
The culture has evolved from kids competing freely in the neighborhood to being pigeonholed into playing with kids their age, year-round, often traveling great distances and incurring significant costs. This model, while well-intentioned, usually stifles natural athletic development and can lead to burnout.
At 360 Sports Services, we believe in a different approach, particularly when it comes to youth lacrosse. Our philosophy is rooted in the importance of keeping it simple, cost-effective, and focused on developing core athleticism right in our backyards, which benefits the other sports kids participate in.
Develop the Athlete First, Specialize Later
One of the biggest misconceptions in youth sports is the rush to specialize. Young athletes, especially those under 12, benefit immensely from a broad range of movements and skills. Developing general athleticism – speed, agility, balance, coordination, and strength – creates a robust foundation upon which sport-specific skills can be built.
Our approach emphasizes drills and activities that enhance these fundamental athletic traits. When a young player possesses intense general athleticism, they naturally become more adept at handling a stick, dodging, shooting, and defending in lacrosse. The focus isn't solely on the lacrosse stick from day one, but on building a more capable and versatile athlete.
The Power of "Our Backyard"
Time is a precious commodity for busy families. The constant travel, the long drives to specialized facilities, and the endless tournaments can quickly become overwhelming and expensive. Our philosophy champions the idea of bringing high-quality coaching and development right to our communities.
By utilizing local fields and accessible spaces, we save parents valuable time and money. This "backyard advantage" allows for more frequent, consistent training without the logistical nightmares. It also fosters a stronger sense of community within the sport, as kids play and develop alongside their neighbors and friends.
Cost-Effective Excellence
We understand that youth sports can be a significant financial burden. Our commitment at 360 Sports Services is to provide the absolute best coaching and preparation available, without the exorbitant price tag. We believe that top-tier instruction and a proven developmental philosophy should be accessible to all families, regardless of their budget. We strip away the unnecessary expenses that often inflate the cost of youth sports, focusing our resources on what truly matters: expert coaching, thoughtful programming, and a positive, engaging environment.
A Viable Option for Parents
We are incredibly excited to bring this philosophy to youth lacrosse. For parents seeking a viable option that is affordable, effective, and prioritizes the holistic development of their child, 360 Sports Services offers a refreshing alternative. We aim to nurture a love for the game by making it enjoyable, accessible, and grounded in sound athletic principles.
As a parent and sports program professional, I understand the importance of overall development for young athletes, especially those who play multiple sports. That's why I create opportunities and programs with your family's best interests at heart, offering an alternative to the constant travel often associated with youth sports.
Thank you for your time,
Coach Clarence
