University of Toronto Athletics

In selecting student-athletes for the Varsity Blues women's lacrosse team, the coaching staff will consider the following criteria through observational and written evaluations. Our goal is to create a team that not only excels in performance but also fosters personal growth, well-being, and a supportive community. We aim to build a team that can compete at a high level while prioritizing the holistic development of each student-athlete, including academic excellence and personal development.

Our Philosophy
The Varsity Blues women's lacrosse team is committed to training at a high-performance level daily and competing with the best lacrosse teams in the OUA. This standard requires fitness, lacrosse IQ, dedication, care, team cohesiveness and constant pursuit to be the best we can be.

In selecting student-athletes who will compete as a team, it is difficult to make selection decisions based solely on objective measurements used to compare one athlete against another. Decisions are based on many interconnected factors, and those taken into consideration during the selection process include:  
 
Personal Growth and Well-being
·    Demonstrates a commitment to personal growth and self-reflection
·    Shows commitment to balance academic, athletic, and personal responsibilities
·    Exhibits resilience and adaptability in facing challenges
·    Prioritizes mental, emotional, and physical well-being, including proper rest and recovery

Team Dynamics and Community Contribution
·    Contributes positively to team culture and morale
·    Shows empathy and support for teammates
·    Demonstrates leadership qualities, whether in formal roles or through everyday actions
·    Actively participates in community service and outreach initiatives
·    Goes out of their way to include everyone and makes it a priority to form connections with others

Athletic Skills and Development
·    Displays competency in fundamental lacrosse skills (scooping, passing, catching, stick-handling, shooting, cradling, dodging and defending)
·    Ability or potential to keep drills moving at a swift pace
·    Shows great understanding of basic tactical elements of the game
·    Shows potential for skill improvement and tactical understanding
·    Demonstrates physical fitness and commitment to conditioning
·    Exhibits adaptability in playing different positions as needed and a balance between offensive and defensive skills (all positions have this balance) 

Communication and Conflict Resolution
·    Communicates effectively with coaches and teammates
·    Shows openness to feedback and willingness to learn
·    Demonstrates ability to address and resolve conflicts constructively
·    Advocates for personal needs while respecting team goals

Commitment and Reliability
·    Consistently attends practices, games, and team events
·    Communicates proactively about scheduling conflicts or issues
·    Shows dedication to team goals and personal improvement
·    Contributes to a culture of mutual respect and accountability

Selection Process
The selection process will involve:

Training Camp Evaluation: Comprehensive assessment during structured training sessions

Review: Consideration of each athlete's potential contribution to team performance, culture, and long-term program success

We recognize that selection decisions involve both objective and subjective elements. The coaching staff, led by the Head Coach, will make final selections based on a holistic view of each athlete's potential contribution to the team.
 
Support and Feedback
We are committed to providing constructive feedback to all athletes, regardless of selection outcomes. Those not selected for the team will be offered guidance on areas for improvement and alternative ways to stay involved with the program.

Timeline
Monday, Aug 25: 7-9 a.m.  
Tuesday, Aug 26: 11-1 am 
Wednesday, Aug 27:  7-9 a.m. 
Thursday, Aug 28: 7-9 a.m.  
Friday, Aug 29: 11-1 a.m. ** Selections
 
To express your interest in trying out, please email jesse.porter@utoronto.ca.
Jesse Porter, Head Coach