Oftentimes people will find it surprising when I mention to those who run club teams that a great way to recruit is to recruit rookies, or adult beginners, to their teams. Why stop at those who have played before?

Rookies oftentimes will be among the most enthusiastic people on the team, and in several times in my experience stepping forward to leadership positions. Remember how it was when you began....the initial excitement, a whole new circle of friends. Fast forward to an athlete in his 20's or 30's and you have a guy that might play this game another 10-15 years. By the end of his first season, you won't realize he's a rookie any longer- and he won't be.

Its all about bringing good PEOPLE into ther sport, which is arguably more important than bringing in good PLAYERS. 

The most resistance I get to this idea of recruiting comes from those who might suffer bruised egos, to those who think they are "too good" to be on the field with such novices. To them I say, "good riddance".

Almost every player on a club roster knows at least one such fellow who would play if given the chance. That's how you can go from 15 players to 25-30 overnight. Throw a long pole in their hands. Teach them defense and faceoffs, ground balls. There are plenty of spots on the field where such people can perform competantly enough to earn their playing time right away and with a little work.

As the GCLA moves ahead into new areas, recruiting such people will be a necessity, not a luxury. These types of players will be the ones leading the way. And, many such players will still be playing this game long after many of us have hung it up.

 -Steve Mathiason