Just Ask Jenna Looks at Lacrosse and Human Capital

by Jenna C, ’26

Dear Jenna, 

On my lacrosse team, everyone has to practice defending and shooting, even if we don’t actually play that position in games. I feel like I’m wasting my time working on skills I will barely use. I’m thinking about bringing it up to my coach, but I’m not sure if I should. What do you think? 

Sincerely, 

Frustrated Player

Dear Frustrated Player, 

I get why you feel like you are wasting your time. 

If you are an attacker, it makes sense to want to spend most of practice getting better at shooting instead of defending. The same goes for defenders who would rather focus only on defense.

However, here is another way to think about it. Every time you practice a skill outside your usual position, you are adding to your human capital. Human capital is the collection of skills, knowledge, and abilities that make a person more productive and capable over time. Even if you do not need those exact moves in your main position, they make you a more well-rounded player. For example, an attacker working on defense builds agility, footwork, and quick reactions, which can actually make their shooting and dodging skills stronger. A defender who practices shooting improves their hand-eye coordination which can transfer into their game. 

It is the same idea in other parts of life too. At my school, everyone has to complete an arts credit during high school. I signed up for ceramics thinking I would never use pottery in my life. I was right about the pottery part, but the class ended up teaching me patience and focus. Those were skills I never expected to get out of it, but I use them all the time now in other areas, and they have made me more productive in the things I do care about. 

So while practicing positions outside your own might not feel directly useful, it is really about building skills that add to your human capital and make you better in the long run. 

Good luck! 

Jenna

Disclaimer

The information provided from Just Ask Jenna is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as professional advice. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information shared, the author makes no guarantees of any kind regarding completeness, accuracy, or suitability for any particular purpose.

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