As parents, we have a responsibility to help guide (not run) their future. If D1, or otherwise, it's important to pick a school that is a good fit academically, size, culture, etc. Playing lacrosse is not obligatory. Having said that, I would like my son to play because it makes good students better students. For many of these kids it will be the first time away from home for an extended period of time. This new found freedom, left unchecked, could lead to bad behavior (even if your son is generally a good kid). By playing a sport he gains a network of friends and has an obligation to the team which will deter (not necessarily prevent) him from doing something dumb. He can still have fun but will not be able to party as much as a kid that doesn't play a sport. Lastly, it is a job, albeit a fun one, so he will have to manage his time accordingly to ensure he maintains his grades which is the real reason he is going to school.
