The world of Lacrosse Drills: Sharpen up your game
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We all love the fast-paced game that requires agility, strategy and skill. The game has captivated people for generations, and is still going strong. Every professional was once a beginner, and the secret behind their mastery is consistent practice. This guide provides a comprehensive look into lacrosse drills, ensuring every player, from beginner to pro, can refine their skills. Just like any other sport it’s important to continually progress and strive to be better.
How Do You Practice Lacrosse?
Ground Ball Drills
Ground balls are a crucial part of lacrosse, and the ground ball drill is a foundation for many players. It is really essential for new players to not forget this exercise, because without the proper scooping method your game will be weak.
Basic Ground Ball Drill
Players line up at the end line, and a coach rolls a ball out. Players sprint towards the ball, practicing the art of scooping it up with proper stick protection, and then pass it back. This great drill is excellent for developing those first touches, and also enhances speed.
Skills: Scooping, first touch and speed
Ground Ball Under Pressure Drill
Two players compete for a single ground ball, mimicking a fast-paced game situation. Introducing this element of competition makes it one of many coaches' favorite drills.
Skills: Speed, competitiveness, first touch and scooping
Shooting Drills
Perfecting the shooting technique requires consistent practice, especially during shooting drills. Without the proper shooting technique, you will never be able to score a goal.
Static Shooting Drill
Players line up 10-15 yards away from the lacrosse goal. Each player takes a quick shot, ensuring they keep the ball high and aimed. This drill focuses on building muscle memory for shooting.
Skills: Shooting, quick release and muscle memory
Moving Shooting Drill
Players maintain a fast-paced movement, either laterally or vertically, catching a long pass before releasing a shot in one smooth motion. Emulating game situations like these are what make drills invaluable.
Skills: Shooting, shooting while running and pace
Passing Drills
Efficient ball movement through passing can dismantle even the most robust defenses.
Line Drills
Incorporating line drills, players form two lines facing each other, passing the ball back and forth. As they advance, players step back, turning this into a long pass drill.
Skills: Long passing and catching
England Drill
The England drill sees four lines of players at each corner of a square. Players pass the ball to the next line and then follow their pass, rotating around the square. This drill enhances both passing and catching, ensuring the ball remains in the same hand to avoid turnovers.
Skills: Quick passing, catching and teamwork
Defensive Drills
Defense drills play a pivotal role in training players to withstand offensive onslaughts.
Man-to-Man Defense Drill
Paired up, one player acts as the offensive player, and the other takes on defense. The defense's objective is to prevent the offensive player from making successful passes or shots.
Skills: Defense and strength
Odd Man Situations
Training players for odd man situations sees the defense being outnumbered by the offense. This prepares defensive players to handle high-pressure scenarios, emphasizing communication.
Skills: Agility and quickness
Dodging and Agility
Dodging is a critical offensive maneuver in lacrosse, allowing players to evade defenders.
Basic Face Dodge
Players practice the face dodge, moving their lacrosse stick from one side of their body to the other, evading potential checks.
Skills: Agility and dodging
Agility Ladder and Cone Drills
An agility ladder allows players to work on footwork patterns, while cone drills, with cones set in zig-zags, help improve dodging skills and overall agility. Switching hands while weaving through cones is also an excellent addition to this drill, training players to be versatile on the field.
Skills: Footwork, agility, hand moving and versatility
Tips for Beginners
For those new to the game, here are some drills and practices to enhance your foundation:
Practicing Cradling: Walk or jog while cradling the ball in your lacrosse stick's pocket. Use both your dominant and non-dominant hand.
Quick Stick Drill: Enhance hand-eye coordination by swiftly passing the ball without cradling.
Stick Protection: While moving, ensure the ball is protected from defenders, especially during odd man situations.
Ground Ball Techniques: Mastering the ground ball can change the game's tide. Whether it's a rolling ball or one that's stationary, players should focus on their approach, scoop technique, and subsequent ball movement.
Improving Agility in Lacrosse
Agility ladder drills are a must for any lacrosse player. They improve footwork, speed, and coordination. Couple this with cone drills, and players can see a marked improvement in their on-field agility. Practicing dodges, like the face dodge, amidst these cones can make the exercise even more game-relevant.
Lacrosse demands dedication, passion, and consistent practice. These lacrosse drills, whether they're defense drills or shooting drills, ensure holistic development for players. With the right mindset, gear, and drills in your arsenal, you can elevate your skills and stand out on the field.
Note: Remember always to have the proper lacrosse gear during practice to prevent injuries and ensure safety.
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