The kids that usually excel early have parents that have a clue about lacrosse. At least to have a catch in the back yard. But even if non-lacrosse parents do that, they can't help with technique. Many kids hold the stick in their palms like they are holding a baseball bat. But it needs to be held more like a golf club in the fingers. Non lacrosse parents aren't going to correct that. So some kids excel and others fall behind. Takes a patient coach to try and bring the others up to speed. But with limited practice time it's tough. Here's the reality. I can get my son piano lessons. But if he's only practicing with his piano teacher, it's unrealistic to think he's going to be as good as the piano teacher's kid or at least someone who is practicing on their own.