All-American and American-Select have huge value when the girls are of recruiting age. I've seen the coaches lining the sidelines at both of these events. Excelsior games have value for regional recruiting opportunities, especially at DII &DIII level and outside top 25 D1. Invite only showcases do not get the best players and should not be #3 on list. All of this needs to be put in perspective as well. What works for some kids does not work for all. Elite players who play on Elite teams need to only worry about club tournaments and prospect days. Kids not on top club teams need to do a little more to get exposure if they have their sights set on top 25 schools. Kids who are happy just have an opportunity to play college lacrosse at any level will get that chance just by playing club. The priority should be to properly align your childs ability and college desires. Start there and everything will work out just fine.
Agreed that every recruiting path is different.
However, when you look at Long Island kids, almost any kid making AS/AA team for this region will be playing at the elite clubs and getting great exposure already. If this was a Tennessee girls lacrosse board, I would agree with you. However, the girls who make these teams are generally the last ones who need exposure. Also, since some local clubs play 5 or 6 tourneys per summer without a break, combined with prospect days, these girls are really tired and it shows.
