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Mental Approach Players also need to use the time before the game to get their minds into game mode. One way to do this is to use the time spent stretching the body to prepare the mind. During warm-ups, both teams will likely be out on the field. Pay attention

to what the other team is doing, and notice what the players’ roles are. Concentrate on the players whose roles will likely cause them to cross paths with you during the game, and study their tendencies. If you are an offensive player, watch the goaltender, and try to pick up any weak spots or habits he or she has. If you are a defender, watch the offensive players, and notice how they carry the ball, face-off tendencies, or which way they prefer to cut—anything that might give you a mental edge in the game. tough means having the ability to focus on the task to come and to prevent your mind from wandering while out on the field. Nothing will distract you from performing your role for your team. Mental toughness also means that you will not allow mistakes to carry over to the rest of the game. Making mistakes is part of playing lacrosse or any sport. If the player you are checking scores, or you make a turnover that results in a goal against your team, you cannot let that get in your head. Have confidence that you will Mental toughness can give teams and players a decided advantage. Being mentally

Mistakes can lead to turnovers, and turnovers can lead to goals for the opponent. Mentally strong players cannot let mistakes affect them.

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Cutting off someone’s dominant hand does not mean putting your stick on the side that you don’t want them to go. It means taking it away, daring them to beat you with their weak hand.

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– Brett Hughes, two-time All-American and 2003 NCAA national champion

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