What are the most effective stick checks in lacrosse. How can players improve their defensive skills using various checking techniques. Which stick checks are legal and illegal in modern lacrosse rules.
Understanding the Importance of Stick Checks in Lacrosse
Stick checks are fundamental defensive techniques in lacrosse, allowing players to disrupt opponents’ possession and regain control of the ball. Mastering these skills is crucial for defensemen and midfielders alike, as they form the backbone of a strong defensive strategy.
Why are stick checks so important in lacrosse? They serve multiple purposes:
- Disrupting offensive plays
- Causing turnovers
- Intimidating opponents
- Creating fast-break opportunities
Effective stick checking requires a combination of timing, technique, and situational awareness. Players must learn to execute checks without committing penalties, which can result in man-down situations for their team.
The Poke Check: A Fundamental Defensive Move
The poke check is often considered the foundation of lacrosse defense. This technique involves extending the stick to jab at an opponent’s stick or hands, aiming to dislodge the ball or disrupt their control.
How can players execute an effective poke check?
- Maintain a balanced defensive stance
- Keep the stick parallel to the ground
- Quickly extend the arms to make contact with the opponent’s stick or gloves
- Retract immediately to avoid penalties
The poke check’s versatility makes it useful in various situations, from one-on-one defense to team defensive schemes. Its low risk of penalties also makes it a favorite among coaches and players alike.
Mastering the Slap Check for Ball Dislodgement
The slap check is a more aggressive technique aimed at knocking the ball out of an opponent’s stick. This check involves a quick, controlled swing of the stick to make contact with the opponent’s stick or gloves.
When should players use the slap check? It’s most effective in the following scenarios:
- When an opponent is cradling the ball loosely
- During ground ball situations
- To disrupt a player attempting to pass or shoot
To execute a proper slap check, players should focus on generating power from their wrists and forearms rather than using a full arm swing. This allows for better control and reduces the risk of penalties for excessive contact.
The Lift Check: Elevating Defensive Play
The lift check is a nuanced technique that involves using the stick to lift an opponent’s arms or stick, disrupting their control of the ball. This check is particularly useful when defending against players who keep their sticks close to their body.
What makes the lift check effective?
- It can create turnovers without excessive contact
- It’s difficult for referees to detect, reducing penalty risk
- It can be combined with body positioning to force opponents off-balance
To perform a lift check, players should approach their opponent from the side or rear, then quickly lift upwards with their stick, targeting the bottom of the opponent’s stick or their forearms. Timing is crucial, as lifting too early can alert the opponent to the incoming check.
Implementing the Trail Check in Transition Defense
The trail check is a dynamic technique used when chasing an opponent from behind. It involves reaching around the opponent’s body to check their stick or gloves, aiming to dislodge the ball or disrupt their momentum.
When is the trail check most effective?
- During fast breaks or transition plays
- When recovering after being beaten by an attacker
- To pressure ball carriers moving towards the goal
Executing a successful trail check requires excellent footwork and body control. Players must maintain their speed while extending their stick around the opponent, being careful not to make contact with the body to avoid penalties.
The V-Hold: A Containment Strategy for Defense
The V-hold is a defensive positioning technique rather than an active check, but it’s crucial for setting up effective stick checks. This stance involves holding the stick vertically in front of the body, forming a “V” shape with the arms.
How does the V-hold benefit defensive players?
- It provides a strong base for initiating checks
- It helps maintain proper defensive positioning
- It allows for quick transitions between different types of checks
To utilize the V-hold effectively, players should keep their hands spread apart on the stick, with the bottom hand near the butt end and the top hand about halfway up the shaft. This grip allows for maximum control and quick stick movement.
Advanced Stick Checking Techniques for Experienced Players
As players develop their skills, they can incorporate more advanced stick checking techniques into their defensive repertoire. These moves require precise timing and execution but can be game-changers when used correctly.
The Rusty Gate Check
The rusty gate check involves swinging the stick over an opponent’s head and down onto their stick or gloves. This check can be highly effective but carries a high risk of penalties if not executed properly.
The Kayak Check
The kayak check is a two-handed technique where the defender swings their stick in a paddling motion to dislodge the ball from an opponent’s stick. It’s particularly useful against players who hold their sticks away from their body.
The Ice Pick Check
The ice pick check involves holding the stick vertically and jabbing downward at an opponent’s stick or gloves. This check can be effective in tight spaces but requires excellent control to avoid penalties.
These advanced techniques should be practiced extensively before being used in game situations. Players must be aware of the increased risk of penalties and use them judiciously.
Legal vs. Illegal Stick Checks: Navigating the Rules
Understanding the difference between legal and illegal stick checks is crucial for players to avoid penalties and maintain their team’s competitive edge. The rules of lacrosse are designed to promote player safety and fair play while still allowing for physical defensive play.
Which stick checks are considered legal in lacrosse?
- Checks applied to the opponent’s stick or gloves
- Controlled slap checks that do not involve excessive force
- Lift checks that target the stick rather than the body
- Poke checks that do not make contact with the opponent’s body
Illegal checks, on the other hand, can result in penalties ranging from loss of possession to time serving fouls. These include:
- Slashing: Making contact with an opponent’s body with the stick
- Cross-checking: Using the portion of the stick between the hands to make contact with an opponent
- Spearing: Jabbing an opponent with the head of the stick
- Targeting the head or neck area with any type of check
Players must be mindful of these distinctions and focus on developing clean, effective checking techniques that stay within the bounds of the rules.
Developing Stick Checking Skills Through Practice Drills
Improving stick checking abilities requires dedicated practice and repetition. Coaches and players can incorporate various drills into their training regimen to hone these essential defensive skills.
Partner Checking Drill
In this drill, players pair up with one acting as the ball carrier and the other as the defender. The defender practices different types of checks while the ball carrier focuses on protecting the stick and maintaining possession.
Gauntlet Drill
This drill involves setting up a line of defenders through which an offensive player must navigate while maintaining possession. Defenders practice various checking techniques as the offensive player attempts to reach the end of the line.
Reaction Time Drill
To improve the timing of checks, players can practice reacting to visual or auditory cues. A coach or partner can signal when to execute a specific type of check, helping players develop quicker reflexes and decision-making skills.
Wall Ball with Checking
This variation on the classic wall ball drill incorporates defensive movements and stick checks. Players throw the ball against a wall, then practice a specific check before catching the rebound.
Consistent practice of these drills can significantly improve a player’s stick checking abilities, leading to more effective defensive play in game situations.
The Psychology of Effective Stick Checking
Mastering the physical techniques of stick checking is only part of the equation. The mental aspect of defensive play is equally important for success on the lacrosse field.
How can players develop the right mindset for effective stick checking?
- Cultivate situational awareness to anticipate offensive moves
- Develop confidence in their abilities through consistent practice
- Learn to read opponents’ body language and tendencies
- Stay focused and composed under pressure
Defensive players should also work on their communication skills, as coordinating with teammates is crucial for executing team defensive strategies. Clear, concise communication can help prevent misunderstandings and improve overall defensive performance.
Adapting Stick Checks to Different Game Situations
Effective defenders know that different game situations call for different approaches to stick checking. Adapting checking techniques to the specific context of play can greatly enhance a team’s defensive effectiveness.
Man-Down Defense
In man-down situations, defenders must be more conservative with their checking to avoid further penalties. Poke checks and lift checks are often favored in these scenarios due to their lower risk.
Clearing the Ball
When clearing the ball from the defensive end, players may use more aggressive checking techniques to create turnovers and prevent the opposing team from setting up their offense.
End-of-Game Scenarios
In close games with little time remaining, defenders might take more risks with their checking in an attempt to force turnovers and regain possession for their team.
By understanding how to adapt their stick checking approach to various game situations, players can maximize their defensive impact and contribute more effectively to their team’s success.
The Evolution of Stick Checking in Modern Lacrosse
As the sport of lacrosse continues to evolve, so too do the techniques and strategies surrounding stick checking. Recent years have seen changes in both equipment and rules that have influenced how players approach defensive play.
What factors have contributed to the evolution of stick checking in lacrosse?
- Advancements in stick technology, leading to more precise and controlled checks
- Rule changes aimed at increasing player safety and reducing violent collisions
- The increasing speed and athleticism of players at all levels of the game
- Greater emphasis on possession-based offensive strategies
These changes have led to a shift towards more technical, less physical defensive play. Modern defenders focus on using their stick skills to create turnovers rather than relying solely on body checks and physical intimidation.
As the game continues to evolve, players and coaches must stay informed about rule changes and emerging techniques to maintain a competitive edge in their defensive strategies.
Integrating Stick Checks into Team Defensive Schemes
While individual stick checking skills are crucial, their true value is realized when integrated into a cohesive team defensive strategy. Coaches and players must work together to develop systems that leverage individual checking abilities within the context of team play.
Defensive Rotations
Effective team defense often involves rotating defenders to provide support and create double-team opportunities. Players must learn to time their checks within these rotations to maximize their disruptive potential.
Ride Defense
During ride situations, when the defending team pressures the opponent’s clearing attempts, coordinated stick checking can force turnovers and create fast-break opportunities.
Zone Defense
In zone defensive setups, players must adapt their checking techniques to cover larger areas and anticipate passes between zones.
By integrating stick checks into these broader defensive schemes, teams can create a more dynamic and effective defensive unit capable of shutting down even the most potent offenses.
The Role of Strength and Conditioning in Effective Stick Checking
While technique is paramount in stick checking, the physical demands of the sport require players to maintain a high level of strength and conditioning to execute checks effectively throughout a game.
What areas should players focus on in their strength and conditioning programs?
- Core strength for stability and power generation
- Forearm and grip strength for better stick control
- Explosive power for quick movements and checks
- Cardiovascular endurance to maintain performance over full games
Specific exercises that can benefit stick checking abilities include:
- Wrist curls and reverse curls for forearm strength
- Medicine ball rotational throws for core power
- Plyometric push-ups for explosive upper body strength
- Agility ladder drills for footwork and quickness
By incorporating these elements into their training regimen, players can enhance their physical capabilities, leading to more effective and consistent stick checking performance on the field.
Analyzing Professional Stick Checking Techniques
Studying the stick checking techniques of professional lacrosse players can provide valuable insights for players at all levels. Professional defenders often showcase a combination of fundamentally sound techniques and innovative approaches that push the boundaries of defensive play.
What can amateur players learn from professional stick checking techniques?
- The importance of body positioning in setting up effective checks
- How to disguise intentions to catch opponents off guard
- Techniques for recovering from unsuccessful check attempts
- Methods for adapting checks to different offensive styles
Players can benefit from watching game footage, attending professional games, or participating in clinics led by professional players to gain insights into high-level stick checking techniques.
The Future of Stick Checking in Lacrosse
As lacrosse continues to grow in popularity and evolve as a sport, the future of stick checking is likely to see further refinements and innovations. Emerging trends and potential developments include:
- Increased use of analytics to optimize checking strategies
- Development of new stick designs that enhance checking capabilities
- Further rule adjustments to balance player safety with competitive play
- Integration of virtual reality technology in training and skill development
Players and coaches who stay attuned to these developments and adapt their approaches accordingly will be best positioned to excel in the evolving landscape of lacrosse defense.
As the sport progresses, the fundamental principles of effective stick checking – timing, technique, and strategic application – will remain crucial to defensive success in lacrosse. By mastering these elements and staying open to new innovations, players can continue to improve their defensive skills and contribute to the ongoing evolution of the game.
About Lacrosse
Positions
Attack: The attackman’s responsibility is to score goals. The attackman generally restricts his play to the offensive end of the field. A good attackman demonstrates excellent stick work with both hands and has quick feet to maneuver around the goal. Each team should have three attackmen on the field during play.
Midfield: The midfielder’s responsibility is to cover the entire field, playing both offense and defense. The midfielder is a key to the transition game, and is often called upon to clear the ball from defense to offense. A good midfielder demonstrates good stick work including throwing, catching and scooping. Speed and stamina are essential. Each team should have three midfielders on the field.
Defense: The defenseman’s responsibility is to defend the goal. The defenseman generally restricts his play to the defensive end of the field. A good defenseman should be able to react quickly in game situations.
Agility and aggressiveness are necessary, but great stick work is not essential to be effective. Each team should have three defensemen on the field.
Goal: The goalie’s responsibility is to protect the goal and stop the opposing team from scoring. A good goalie also leads the defense by reading the situation and directing the defensemen to react. A good goalie should have excellent hand/eye coordination and a strong voice. Quickness, agility, confidence and the ability to concentrate are also essential. Each team has one goalie in the goal during play.
Men’s Lacrosse Equipment
The Crosse: The crosse (lacrosse stick) is made of wood, laminated wood or synthetic material, with a shaped net pocket at the end. The crosse must be an overall length of 40 – 42 inches for attackmen and midfielders, or 52 – 72 inches for defensemen. The head of the crosse must be 6.5 – 10 inches wide, except a goalie’s crosse which may be 10 – 12 inches wide.
The pocket of a crosse shall be deemed illegal if the top surface of a lacrosse ball, when placed in the head of the crosse, is below the bottom edge of the side wall.
The Ball: The ball must be made of solid rubber and can be white, yellow or orange. The ball is 7.75 – 8 inches in circumference and 5 – 5.25 ounces.
The Helmet: A protective helmet, equipped with face mask, chin pad and a cupped four point chin strap fastened to all four hookups, must be worn by all men’s players. All helmets and face masks must be NOCSAE (National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment) approved.
The Mouthpiece: The mouthpiece must be a highly visible color and is mandatory.
The Glove: All players are required to wear protective gloves. The cutting or altering of gloves is prohibited.
Protective Equipment: New in 2022 all players are required to have N200 certified shoulder pads.
(there is an extra protection heart guard) All players, with the exception of the goalkeeper, must wear shoulder pads. Arm pads and rib pads are also strongly recommended and often required, as are athletic supporters and protective cups for all players. The goalkeeper is required to wear a throat protector and chest protector, in addition to a helmet, mouthpiece and gloves.
Women’s Lacrosse Equipment
The Crosse:The crosse (lacrosse stick) is made of wood, laminated wood, or synthetic material, with a shaped net pocket at the end. A girl’s crosse must be an overall length of 35.5 – 43.25 inches. The head of the crosse must be seven to nine inches wide. The pocket of the stick must be strung traditionally; no mesh is allowed. The top of the ball when dropped in the pocket must remain above the side walls.* The goalkeeper¹s crosse may be 35.5- 48 inches long. The head of the crosse may be mesh and up to 12 inches wide.
* Modified Pocket allowed in girls youth rules
The Ball:The game ball must be yellow and made of solid rubber, smooth without dimples for games and must be visible color, other than clear or white.
The ball must be 7.75 – 8 inches in circumference and weigh 5 – 5.25 ounces. All lacrosse balls must meet NOCSAE (National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment) standards and include the words “Meets NOCSAE Standard”.
The Mouthpiece: All players must wear mouthguards.
The Protective Equipment:Close-fitting gloves, nose guards and soft head gear are optional and may be worn by all players. All field players must properly wear eye protection that meets ASTM specification standard F803 for women’s adult/ youth lacrosse for the appropriate level of play.
See approved listings for: Eyewear| Sticks
The Goalkeeper’s Equipment:The goalkeeper must wear a helmet with face mask (NOCSAE approved), separate throat protector, padded gloves, mouth piece, and chest protector. The goalkeeper may wear padding on arms, legs, and shoulders which does not excessively increase the size of those body parts.
High school level and below must wear padding on thighs and shins. Youth level must wear some form of abdominal and pelvic protection.
Goalies are required to wear padded gloves.
Men’s Lacrosse Rules
Men’s lacrosse is a contact game played by ten players: a goalie, three defensemen, three midfielders and three attackmen. The object of the game is to shoot the ball into the opponent’s goal. The team scoring the most goals wins.
Each team must keep at least four players, including the goalie, in its defensive half of the field and three in its offensive half. Three players (midfielders) may roam the entire field.
Collegiate games are 60 minutes long, with 15-minute quarters. Generally, high school games are 48 minutes long, with 12-minute quarters. Likewise, youth games are 32 minutes long, with eight-minute quarters. Each team is given a two-minute break between the first and second quarters, and the third and fourth quarters. Halftime is ten minutes long.
Teams change sides between periods. Each team is permitted two timeouts each half. The team winning the coin toss chooses the end of the field it wants to defend first.
The players take their positions on the field: four in the defensive clearing area, one at the center, two in the wing areas and three in their attack goal area.
Men’s lacrosse begins with a face-off. The ball is placed between the sticks of two squatting players at the center of the field. The official blows the whistle to begin play. Each face-off player tries to control the ball. The players in the wing areas can run after the ball when the whistle sounds. The other players must wait until one player has gained possession of the ball, or the ball has crossed a goal area line, before they can release.
Center face-offs are also used at the start of each quarter and after a goal is scored. Field players must use their crosses to pass, catch and run with the ball. Only the goalkeeper may touch the ball with his hands.
A player may gain possession of the ball by dislodging it from an opponent’s crosse with a stick check. A stick check is the controlled poking and slapping of the stick and gloved hands of the player in possession of the ball.
Body checking is permitted if the opponent has the ball or is within five yards of a loose ball. All body contact must occur from the front or side, above the waist and below the shoulders, and with both hands on the stick. An opponent’s crosse may also be stick checked if it is within five yards of a loose ball or ball in the air. Aggressive body checking is discouraged.
If the ball or a player in possession of the ball goes out of bounds, the other team is awarded possession. If the ball goes out of bounds after an unsuccessful shot, the player nearest to the ball when and where it goes out of bounds is awarded possession.
An attacking player cannot enter the crease around the goal, but may reach in with his stick to scoop a loose ball.
A referee, umpire and field judge supervise field play.
A chief bench official, timekeepers and scorers assist.
Men’s Lacrosse Personal & Technical Fouls
There are personal fouls and technical fouls in boy’s lacrosse. The penalty for a personal foul results in a one to three minute suspension from play and possession to the team that was fouled. Players with five personal fouls are ejected from the game. The penalty for a technical foul is a thirty-second suspension if a team is in possession of the ball when the foul is committed, or possession of the ball to the team that was fouled if there was no possession when the foul was committed.
Note: The US Lacrosse Youth Council has developed modified rules for ages 15 and under play. To get a copy of these rules contact US Lacrosse at 410.235.6882.
Personal Fouls
Slashing: Occurs when a player’s stick viciously contacts an opponent in any area other than the stick or gloved hand on the stick.
Tripping: Occurs when a player obstructs his opponent at or below the waist with the crosse, hands, arms, feet or legs.
Cross Checking: Occurs when a player uses the handle of his crosse between his hands to make contact with an opponent.
Unsportsmanlike Conduct: Occurs when any player or coach commits an act which is considered unsportsmanlike by an official, including taunting, arguing, or obscene language or gestures.
Unnecessary Roughness: Occurs when a player strikes an opponent with his stick or body using excessive or violent force.
Illegal Crosse: Occurs when a player uses a crosse that does not conform to required specifications. A crosse may be found illegal if the pocket is too deep or if any other part of the crosse was altered to gain an advantage.
Illegal Body Checking: Occurs when any of the following actions takes place:
a) Body checking an opponent who is not in possession of the ball or within five yards of a loose ball.
b) Avoidable body check of an opponent after he has passed or shot the ball.
c) Body checking an opponent from the rear or at or below the waist.
d) Body checking an opponent above the shoulders. A body check must be below the shoulders and above the waist, and both hands of the player applying the body check must remain in contact with his crosse.
Illegal Gloves: Occurs when a player uses gloves that do not conform to required specifications. A glove will be found illegal if the fingers and palms are cut out of the gloves, or if the glove has been altered in a way that compromises its protective features.
Technical Fouls
Holding: Occurs when a player impedes the movement of an opponent or an opponent’s crosse.
Interference: Occurs when a player interferes in any manner with the free movement of an opponent, except when that opponent has possession of the ball, the ball is in flight and within five yards of the player, or both players are within five yards of a loose ball.
Offsides: Occurs when a team does not have at least four players on its defensive side of the midfield line or at least three players on its offensive side of the midfield line.
Pushing: Occurs when a player thrusts or shoves a player from behind.
Screening: Occurs when an offensive player moves into and makes contact with a defensive player with the purpose of blocking him from the man he is defending.
Stalling: Occurs when a team intentionally holds the ball, without conducting normal offensive play, with the intent of running time off the clock.
Warding Off: Occurs when a player in possession of the ball uses his free hand or arm to hold, push or control the direction of an opponent’s stick check.
Mens Lacrosse Skills
Catching: The act of receiving a passed ball with the crosse.
Checking: The act of attempting to dislodge the ball from an opponent’s stick.
Poke Check: A stick check in which the player pokes the head of his stick at an opponent’s stick through the top hand by pushing with the bottom hand.
Slap Check: A stick check in which a player slaps the head of his stick against his opponent’s stick.
Wrap Check: A one-handed check in which the defender swings his stick around his opponent’s body to dislodge the ball. (This check is only legal at the highest level of play.)
Cradling: The coordinated motion of the arms and wrists that keeps the ball secure in the pocket and ready to be passed or shot when running.
Cutting: A movement by an offensive player without the ball, toward the opponent’s goal, in anticipation of a feed and shot.
Feeding: Passing the ball to a teammate who is in position for a shot on goal.
Passing: The act of throwing the ball to a teammate with the crosse.
Scooping: The act of picking up a loose ball with the crosse.
Screening: An offensive tactic in which a player near the crease positions himself so as to block the goalkeeper’s view of the ball.
Shooting: The act of throwing the ball with the crosse toward the goal in an attempt to score.
Glossary of Terms
Attack Goal Area: The area defined by a line drawn sideline to sideline 20 yards from the face of the goal. Once the offensive team crosses the midfield line, it has ten seconds to move the ball into its attack goal area.
Body Check: Contact with an opponent from the front – between the shoulders and waist – when the opponent has the ball or is within five yards of a loose ball.
Box: An area used to hold players who have been served with penalties, and through which substitutions “on the fly” are permitted directly from the sideline onto the field.
Check-up: A call given by the goalie to tell each defender to find his man and call out his number.
Clamp: A face-off maneuver executed by quickly pushing the back of the stick on top of the ball.
Clearing: Running or passing the ball from the defensive half of the field to the attack goal area.
Crease: A circle around the goal with a radius of nine feet into which only defensive players may enter.
Crosse (Stick): The equipment used to throw, catch and carry the ball.
Defensive Clearing Area: The area defined by a line drawn sideline to sideline 20 yards from the face of the goal. Once the defensive team gains possession of the ball in this area, it has ten seconds to move the ball across the midfield line.
Extra man Offense (EMO): A man advantage that results from a time-serving penalty.
Face-Off: A technique used to put the ball in play at the start of each quarter, or after a goal is scored. The players squat down and the ball is placed between their crosses.
Fast-Break: A transition scoring opportunity in which the offense has at least a one-man advantage.
Ground Ball: A loose ball on the playing field.
Handle (Shaft): An aluminum, wooden or composite pole connected to the head of the crosse.
Head: The plastic or wood part of the stick connected to the handle.
Man Down Defense (MDD): The situation that results from a time-serving penalty which causes the defense to play with at least a one man disadvantage.
Midfield Line: The line which bisects the field of play.
On-The-Fly Substitution: A substitution made during play.
Pick: An offensive maneuver in which a stationary player attempts to block the path of a defender guarding another offensive player.
Pocket: The strung part of the head of the stick which holds the ball.
Rake: A face-off move in which a player sweeps the ball to the side.
Riding: The act of trying to prevent a team from clearing the ball.
Release: The term used by an official to notify a penalized player in the box that he may re-enter the game.
Unsettled Situation: Any situation in which the defense is not positioned correctly, usually due to a loose ball or broken clear.
Mastering Lacrosse Checking: Tips & Techniques | by Lacrossee | May, 2023
6 min read
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May 11
Lacrosse is a fast-paced, physical sport that requires players to be skilled in a variety of techniques, including checking. Checking is the act of using your stick to disrupt an opponent’s movement or possession of the ball.
It’s an essential skill for defenders and midfielders alike, and mastering it can take your game to the next level.
There are several types of checks in lacrosse, each with its own purpose and technique. Some checks are designed to dislodge the ball from an opponent’s stick, while others are meant to slow them down or force them to change direction. Learning when and how to use each type of check is key to becoming a successful defender.
Effective checking requires a combination of speed, timing, and accuracy. It’s not just about swinging your stick wildly; it’s about reading your opponent’s movements and anticipating their next move. With practice and patience, you can master the art of lacrosse checking and become a formidable force on the field.
1. Understanding the Fundamentals of Lacrosse Checking
Effective checking is a critical aspect of lacrosse. It is a defensive technique used to dispossess an opponent of the ball.
There are three types of checks in lacrosse: stick checks, body checks, and poke checks..jpg)
Each check has its unique purpose, and players must master all three to be effective defenders.
- Stick checks involve striking an opponent’s stick with your own to dislodge the ball.
- Body checks involve using your body to block, push, or hit an opponent to force them to lose possession of the ball.
- Poke checks involve using your stick to poke the ball away from an opponent’s stick.
Timing and positioning are crucial in executing effective checks. Players must time their checks correctly to avoid penalties and position themselves correctly to make the check.
Players must also be aware of the rules governing checking in lacrosse. Illegal checks can lead to penalties and even suspensions. Checking an opponent’s head or neck area, for instance, is illegal and can lead to severe consequences.
Finally, players must practice their checking skills regularly to develop muscle memory and improve their technique. Consistent practice helps players execute checks more efficiently during games.
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2. Different Types of Lacrosse Checks and When to Use Them
Knowing the different types of lacrosse checks is essential for any player. Here are some of the most common ones:
- Body Check: Using your body to hit an opponent.
- Poke Check: Using your stick to poke the ball away from an opponent.
- Lift Check: Using your stick to lift an opponent’s stick to disrupt their shot or pass.
- Wrap Check: Using your stick to wrap around an opponent’s body to take the ball away.
When to use each check depends on the situation. Body checks are best used when the opponent has the ball and is running towards you. Poke checks are great for when an opponent is trying to pass or shoot. Lift checks are effective when an opponent is trying to shoot or pass. Wrap checks are best used when an opponent has their back to you.
It’s important to remember that checks should be used legally and safely. Illegal checks can result in penalties or even injuries.
Always aim for the ball and not the opponent’s body. Practice these checks to improve your game and become a better player. 🥍
3. Mastering Body Positioning for Effective Lacrosse Checking
Proper body positioning is key to effective lacrosse checking. Here are some tips:
- Keep your feet shoulder-width apart and knees bent.
- Lean forward slightly with your weight on the balls of your feet.
- Keep your stick in front of you and your elbows close to your body.
When checking, use your body to generate power:
- Step into your opponent with your lead foot.
- Rotate your hips and shoulders to generate torque.
- Follow through with your stick to maximize force.
Remember to always keep your head up and eyes on the ball:
- Stay aware of your surroundings to avoid collisions.
- Anticipate your opponent’s movements.
- React quickly and adjust your body positioning accordingly.
Practice these techniques to become a master of body positioning in lacrosse checking.
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4. Tips for Improving Your Stick Skills in Lacrosse Checking
Developing your stick skills is crucial to becoming a successful lacrosse player. Here are some tips to improve your checking:
- Practice your footwork to improve your agility and balance on the field.
- Work on your hand-eye coordination by using a wall or rebounder to practice catching and throwing.
- Focus on your grip to ensure you have a strong hold on your stick.
- Use your body to generate power when checking, rather than just relying on your arms.
- Try different types of checks, such as poke checks and slap checks, to keep your opponents guessing.
- Watch videos of professional players to learn new techniques and strategies.
- Don’t forget to practice your non-dominant hand to become a more versatile player.
Remember, improving your stick skills takes time and dedication. Keep practicing and you’ll see improvement in no time! 🥍🔥
5. Developing Tactical Awareness for Successful Lacrosse Checking
Developing tactical awareness is crucial for successful lacrosse checking.
Here are some tips:
- Study your opponent’s tendencies and adjust your checking accordingly.
- Position yourself correctly to anticipate your opponent’s moves.
- Use your body to block your opponent’s path to the goal.
- Be aware of your surroundings and communicate with your teammates.
Effective checking requires quick reflexes and good timing. Practice these drills:
- Reaction time drills using cones or a partner.
- Footwork drills to improve agility and balance.
- Partner drills to practice different types of checks.
- Game-like scenarios to simulate real game situations.
Knowing the rules of the game is essential for successful checking. Here are some important rules:
- Only use legal checks, such as body checks and stick checks.
- Avoid dangerous checks, such as hits to the head or neck.
- Don’t check from behind or below the waist.
- Be aware of penalties for illegal checks.
Developing tactical awareness takes time and practice.
Here are some additional tips:
- Watch lacrosse games and analyze the players’ checking techniques.
- Ask your coach for feedback and advice.
- Practice checking with both hands to improve your versatility.
- Stay focused and confident on the field.
Remember, successful lacrosse checking requires a combination of skill, strategy, and awareness. 🥍💪
6. Common Mistakes to Avoid in Lacrosse Checking Techniques
🥍 To improve your lacrosse checking techniques, it’s important to avoid common mistakes. Here are some tips:
- 🚫 Don’t check with your body. Use your stick to avoid penalties.
- 🚫 Don’t check too high or too low. Aim for the opponent’s stick or gloves.
- 🚫 Don’t swing your stick too hard. Use controlled movements for better accuracy.
- 🚫 Don’t check from behind. It’s dangerous and can result in a penalty or injury.
🥍 Remember to keep your eyes on the ball and anticipate your opponent’s moves. Practice makes perfect!
7.
Practicing Lacrosse Checking Drills for Consistent Improvement
One of the most important skills in lacrosse is checking. Consistent practice can improve your game. Here are some drills to help you:
- Wall ball: Practice your checks against a wall to improve accuracy and speed.
- Partner drills: Work with a partner to practice different types of checks.
- Ground ball drills: Improve your ground ball skills while incorporating checking techniques.
Focus on proper technique and body positioning during drills. Incorporate footwork and stick positioning for maximum effectiveness.
- Box drills: Practice checking in a confined space to improve reaction time and agility.
- Full-field drills: Incorporate checking into full-field drills to simulate game situations.
- Game-like scenarios: Practice checking in game-like situations to improve decision-making and timing.
Remember to always prioritize safety and follow proper rules and regulations.
Consistent practice and proper technique can lead to significant improvement in your lacrosse game.
🥍 In conclusion, mastering lacrosse checking takes time, practice, and dedication. By utilizing the tips and techniques outlined in this article, players can improve their defensive skills and become more effective on the field. Remember to always prioritize safety and sportsmanship while playing.
🥍🔥👊 Keep your stick up and your body low to deliver powerful checks. Don’t forget to use your feet and body positioning to control your opponent’s movements. Practice different types of checks to become a well-rounded defender. Keep pushing yourself to improve!
https://lacrossee.com/mastering-lacrosse-checking-tips-techniques/?_unique_id=645cb43264f00
45+ Best Lacrosse Quotes: Exclusive Collection
Deeply inspirational lacrosse quotes will challenge your way of thinking and guide you through any life experience.
If you are looking for motivational sports quotes and famous football quotes that perfectly capture what you want to say or just want to get inspired, check out the amazing collection of best cross country quotes, inspirational motivational quotes for athletes and popular gymnastics quotes.
We are doing our homework to get ready. – Gary Gate
You can play lacrosse all over the world if you know where the goalposts are. – Peter Greenaway
Practice does not make perfect. This makes it permanent.
Hurling is a bit like a cross between lacrosse and murder in the second degree. – David Feherty
Fall down seven times, get up eight times.
Play like an adult. Play smart. To play together. – Dean Smith
Lacrosse is fast paced and I like fast games. It is physically demanding and has the heaviest form of all sports. You are always running when you are not running. This is a constant movement. – Aaron Gray
Goals in lacrosse are achieved not by strength but by perseverance. – Felicity Lucky
Of course, the downside of attending a fictional school is that our lacrosse team sucks. – Ellie Carter
If you train hard, you will not only have a hard time, but it will also be difficult to win. – Herschel Walker
Play as the teammate next to you.
The ultimate goal of lacrosse is to score goals. The more goals a team can score, the more likely it is to win the game. – Kelly Amonte Hiller
If I were an American lacrosse, I wouldn’t let kids play on the field until they were 10 or 12 years old. – Bill Tierney
No publicity. You must like it. No pressure, just more competition. The mood of the coaches and players was exceptional. – Jim Brown
In 10 years, all kids will be in lacrosse. – Gary Husmann
Teamwork is the ability to work together towards a common vision. It is the fuel that allows ordinary people to achieve extraordinary results.
He is a kid who lives and loves lacrosse. In the second year, he brings up everyone together. – Tom West
I don’t consider lacrosse a sport. To me, it’s just a brotherly activity out of control. – Judas Friedländer
I could fully express myself in lacrosse. – Jim Brown
Every time we have a lacrosse game, two or three more kids come up and want to play.
As long as we keep playing games, we will grow. – Mike Dubbelde
Don’t go where the road leads, instead go where there is no path and leave a trail.
They play their best lacrosse of the year. It’s time to support them and help them perform at their best. – Larry Epperley
Attitude is the small thing that makes the difference between success in lacrosse and failure in lacrosse. – Felicity Lucky
Although it will be a tough event, we will all have fun and in the end lacrosse will win. – Gavin Prout
The last thing we can do right now is apologize. In some places we are inexperienced, that’s all. We have injuries, like everyone else, the way it is. – Dave Pietramala
He takes the offensive game of lacrosse to a more intellectual level. – Bill Tierney
I am a lacrosse player and not a bully. I was a servant. The kids here know the difference between what’s on the field and what’s not. – Jack Moran
I played lacrosse for a while, but mostly I was a swimmer – captain of my swim team.
– Grace Gummer
The more time you spend in lacrosse circles, the more you feel that teaching is a really good option. I’ve been doing lacrosse camps for seven years now and I really enjoy teaching and working with kids. – Colin Doyle
In lacrosse, momentum changes so quickly. Would we like to turn 3-0 into 6-0? Sure, but that’s not realistic with talent in this league. The teams are going to fight back. – Ed Como
I was just a big guy running downstairs with a big deep pocket and a short little stick holding him to my chest. – Jim Brown
I thought lacrosse was something you could find in church. – Robin Williams
It’s not often that you meet someone here with his lacrosse experience. – Dean Curtis
Lacrosse is one of those diseases that runs in the family and infects everyone. It hooked each of us. – Ted Woolford
Some people dream of success while others wake up and work hard at it.
It’s a family lacrosse sport unlike any other sport, it’s more of a lifestyle.
– Adam Gardner
Lacrosse looks like the sport of the future. Maybe now it has even become a sport. – Chris Hall
When you talk about lacrosse, you talk about the lifeblood of the Six Nations. The game has firmly entered our culture, our system and our lives. – Oren Lions
Lacrosse is a space game in terms of distribution of attack and fast break. You don’t get that in the gym. We got twice as much grass as before. – Bob Heester
Lacrosse is probably the best sport I’ve ever played. – Jim Brown
I’d rather play lacrosse six days a week and football on the seventh. – Jim Brown
I grew up with lacrosse in my life because my dad played lacrosse all through college so I grew up with home gear – sticks and a helmet. – Tyler Posey
He never touched a stick before, but now he just eats, sleeps and breathes lacrosse. – Andy Shoop
Girls also play lacrosse, and we haven’t gone that route yet, but certainly wouldn’t if there was interest.
