Top 20 Interview Questions & Answers for Lacrosse Coach Roles – 2025

Preparing for a lacrosse coach job interview? This guide provides a list of essential questions and answers that will help you showcase your knowledge, experience, and leadership skills in coaching lacrosse teams. Whether you’re applying for a role as a high school or college lacrosse coach, these questions cover all key areas of the job.

General Questions

• 1. Tell us about your background in lacrosse.
  Answer: I have been playing lacrosse since I was in middle school and have always had a passion for the sport. I played on my high school team and continued to play in college. I also have experience coaching youth lacrosse teams and have been a lacrosse coach for the past five years.
• 2. What inspired you to become a lacrosse coach?
  Answer: Growing up, I had a lot of amazing coaches who had a huge impact on my life, both on and off the field. They taught me valuable lessons about teamwork, leadership, and perseverance. I want to pass on those same values and inspire the next generation of lacrosse players.
• 3. What do you see as the most important role of a lacrosse coach?
  Answer: The most important role of a lacrosse coach is to not only teach the skills and strategies of the game, but also mentor and guide the players to become better individuals. A coach should also create a positive and inclusive team environment.
• 4. How do you ensure the safety of your players during practices and games?
  Answer: Safety is always a top priority for me as a coach. I make sure to create a thorough and detailed practice plan, warm up exercises, and have proper safety equipment for the players. I also have open communication with the players regarding any injuries or concerns.
• 5. How do you handle conflicts or disagreements within the team?
  Answer: Conflict resolution is an important skill for a coach to have. I believe in open and honest communication, and I make sure to address any conflicts or disagreements as soon as they arise. I also encourage the players to work through their issues in a constructive and respectful manner.

Technical Skills & Experience

• 6. How do you develop a strategy for a game?
  Answer: As a coach, I first analyze the strengths and weaknesses of my team and the opponent's team. I then develop a game plan that utilizes our team's strengths and exploits the opponent's weaknesses. This strategy is constantly adjusted throughout the game.
• 7. How do you handle player substitutions during a game?
  Answer: Player substitutions are based on a combination of factors, including player performance, game situation, and player injuries. I make sure to communicate clearly with the players and have a strategy for substitutions in place before the game.
• 8. How do you prepare your team for a big game?
  Answer: The key to preparing for a big game is to not deviate from our normal routine too much. I make sure the players are well-rested, hydrated, and have a nutritious meal before the game. We also have a team meeting to go over our game plan and to mentally prepare for the competition.
• 9. How do you handle a team that is struggling with motivation?
  Answer: As a coach, it is important to understand that motivation can fluctuate throughout a season. In these situations, I like to refocus the players on their goals and the importance of teamwork. I also try to find fun and creative ways to keep the players engaged and motivated.
• 10. How do you handle conflicts with parents or the school administration?
  Answer: It is essential to maintain open and respectful communication with parents and school administrators. I make sure to address any concerns and work together to find a solution. Conflict resolution skills are crucial in these situations.

Behavioral Questions

• 11. How do you handle a player who is underperforming?
  Answer: My approach is to first have a one-on-one conversation with the player to understand any issues or challenges they may be facing. I then work with them to develop a plan for improvement and provide encouragement and support along the way.
• 12. Can you tell us about a time when you had to make a difficult coaching decision?
  Answer: In my previous role, I had two players who were consistently arguing and causing conflicts within the team. It was a difficult decision, but I had to remove one of the players from the team to maintain a positive team dynamic.
• 13. How do you handle a player who is not receptive to feedback or criticism?
  Answer: I believe in providing constructive criticism in a respectful and positive manner. If a player is not receptive to feedback, I try to understand the root cause and find alternative ways to communicate with them. It's important for the players to know that any criticism comes from a place of wanting them to improve and succeed.
• 14. Can you tell us about a time when you had to adapt your coaching style to accommodate the team's needs?
  Answer: Every team is unique, and as a coach, it's important to be adaptable and flexible. In one instance, I had a team that responded better to a more relaxed and fun coaching approach. In another, I had to be more strict and structured to maintain a high level of discipline.
• 15. How do you motivate players who are not naturally talented or skilled?
  Answer: I firmly believe that hard work and dedication can make up for a lack of natural talent. I encourage these players to focus on their strengths and work on improving their weaknesses. I also provide them with the necessary resources and support to help them reach their full potential.

Situational Questions

• 16. How would you handle a player who consistently breaks team rules?
  Answer: If discussing the issue with the player and implementing consequences does not lead to a change in behavior, I believe it may be necessary to remove them from the team in order to maintain a positive and cohesive team dynamic.
• 17. If a team member gets injured during a key game, what steps do you take?
  Answer: Firstly, I would make sure to have the player receive immediate medical attention if needed. If able to continue playing, I would adjust the game plan and player substitution strategy accordingly. I would also provide support and encouragement to keep the injured player's spirits up.
• 18. If the team is losing by a significant margin, how would you motivate them to keep playing?
  Answer: In this situation, I would remind the team of their goals and the importance of never giving up. I would also provide specific strategies and adjustments to turn the game around. Additionally, I would focus on highlighting the team's strengths and encouraging them to work together to overcome the deficit.
• 19. How do you handle a player who is getting bullied by teammates?
  Answer: Bullying is not tolerated on my team. I would have a conversation with the player who is being targeted and address the issue with the other players involved. I would also implement team-building activities and open discussions to promote respect and teamwork among the players.
• 20. How would you handle an issue within the team that you are not equipped to deal with?
  Answer: In these situations, I believe it is important to acknowledge that I may not have the expertise to handle the issue and seek assistance from someone who does. This could be a school counselor, a coach from another team, or involving the player's parents for support and guidance.