Team practice is where players learn to play together. But with a full roster and a small coaching staff, there is only so much one-on-one attention to go around. That is where private lessons come in, and why so many parents eventually ask the same question: are they worth it?
Quick Answer:
Private lacrosse lessons are worth it when a player has a specific skill to fix, is learning a new position (especially goalie), is preparing for tryouts or a higher level of play, or needs more individual feedback than team practice can give. For brand-new players who mostly need reps and fun, a group clinic or skills program is often the better first step, with lessons added once fundamentals are in place.
Here is how to tell which option fits your player right now.
Private Lessons vs Clinics vs Team Practice
| Private Lesson | Small Group Clinic | Team Practice | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coach attention | One-on-one | Shared with a small group | Shared with the full roster |
| Focus | Your player's specific needs | A skill or position | Team systems and game prep |
| Reps per player | Highest | High | Varies |
| Pace | Set by the player | Set by the group | Set by the team |
| Best for | Fixing a skill, new positions, tryout prep | Building fundamentals with peers | Learning to play together |
| Cost per hour | Highest | Lower | Included in team fees |
None of these replaces the others. The strongest players usually combine all three at different points in the year.
7 Signs Private Lessons Are Worth It
1. Your Player Has a Specific Skill to Fix
A weak off hand, a slow release, or an inconsistent shot are hard to fix in a team setting. A private coach can watch every rep, spot the exact problem, and correct it before it becomes a habit.
2. They Are Learning to Play Goalie
Goalie is the most technical position on the field and often gets the least individual coaching at practice. One-on-one work on stance, angles, and save mechanics makes a huge difference, especially early on.
3. They Are Switching Positions
Moving from midfield to defense, or from attack to midfield, means learning new footwork, new responsibilities, and sometimes a new stick. A position-specific coach can shorten that learning curve.
4. Tryouts or a New Level Are Coming Up
Before club tryouts, a jump to high school, or a move up to a more competitive team, a few targeted lessons can sharpen the skills coaches will be watching for.
5. They Need More Feedback Than Practice Gives
Some players improve faster with direct, immediate feedback. If your player asks questions after practice or seems stuck despite working hard, individual coaching can unlock progress.
6. Confidence Is Holding Them Back
Players who are hesitant in games often play more freely after building skills in a low-pressure, one-on-one setting.
7. They Are Already Putting In the Work
Lessons pay off most for players who practice between sessions. A player who does wall ball and follows through on homework drills will get far more out of every hour with a coach. Our wall ball routines for home are a good place to start.
When a Clinic or Skills Program Is the Better Fit
Private lessons are not always the right first step. A group program may be a better choice when:
- Your player is brand new. Young beginners usually need lots of reps, games, and fun more than detailed technical coaching. NJLT's Little Laxxers program for grades K through 3 and Boys Lax Academy for players with less than two years of experience are built for this stage.
- They want to work on one skill with peers. A focused clinic like NJLT's Shoot 2 Score shooting clinic or defense clinic gives high reps in a small group setting.
- They need game reps, not just drills. Live play builds decision-making. NJLT Box Lacrosse gives players constant touches in tight spaces.
- Budget is a factor. Group sessions cost less per hour and still deliver quality coaching.
Many families use a mix: a clinic or academy for steady skill building, plus a few private lessons to target specific problems.
How to Get the Most Out of Private Lessons
- Set a goal. Tell the coach what you want to work on, whether it is an off hand, shooting accuracy, or tryout prep.
- Be consistent. Regular lessons over several weeks beat a single session before a big game.
- Do the homework. The work between lessons is where most improvement happens.
- Bring questions. Ask about situations from games and practice.
- Track progress. Notice what is improving and adjust goals as you go.
What to Look for in a Private Lacrosse Coach
- Position experience: a coach who has played or coached your player's position, especially for goalies.
- A clear plan: each lesson should build on the last, starting from fundamentals.
- Homework between sessions: good coaches give players drills to practice on their own.
- Communication: feedback for the player and, for younger athletes, a quick update for parents.
- Fit: your player should feel comfortable asking questions and making mistakes.
- Flexibility: options like lesson bundles and small group sessions make it easier to stay consistent.
Private Lacrosse Lessons at NJLT
NJLT private lacrosse lessons give players one hour of individual attention from a coach matched to their position. Lessons are available for players of any age and every skill level, for offense, defense, and goalies, and small group sessions are available too.
- Position-matched coaching: players are paired with a specific position coach, including a dedicated goalie specialist
- Fundamentals first: every lesson starts with core stick skills to strengthen the base
- Homework: players leave with skills and drills to work on between lessons
- Flexible bundles: single lessons or 5 and 10 lesson bundles, with a year to use lesson credits
Looking for goalie training in a group setting? NJLT Goalie School offers Level 1 and Advanced tracks year-round.
Book NJLT private lacrosse lessons, or call or text 732-810-0181 to be paired with a coach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are private lacrosse lessons worth the money?
They are worth it when a player has a specific goal, such as fixing a skill, learning a new position, or preparing for tryouts. For brand-new players, a group clinic is often a better first step.
How often should my child take private lacrosse lessons?
Consistency matters more than frequency. Regular lessons over several weeks, combined with practice at home, deliver the best results. Lesson bundles make that easier.
What age should kids start private lacrosse lessons?
There is no set age. NJLT offers lessons to players of any age and skill level. Younger beginners often benefit most from group programs first, with lessons added as they get more serious.
Are private lessons good for lacrosse goalies?
Yes. Goalie is a highly technical position that often gets little individual coaching at team practice, so one-on-one work with a goalie specialist can speed up development.
How long is a private lacrosse lesson?
At NJLT, a private lesson is one hour of individual attention from a position-matched coach.
What should my child bring to a private lesson?
Their stick, full protective gear for their position, water, and a goal to work on. Ask your coach if anything specific is needed.
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