Build lacrosse rebounder. Building a Lacrosse Rebounder: A Comprehensive Guide to Enhancing Your Practice

How can you build an effective lacrosse rebounder at home. What materials are needed for a DIY lacrosse wall. Why are lacrosse rebounders essential for skill development. How do professional teams use rebound walls in their training routines. What are the benefits of incorporating a rebounder into your lacrosse practice.

The Importance of Lacrosse Rebounders in Skill Development

Lacrosse rebounders have become an essential tool for players looking to improve their skills and take their game to the next level. These versatile practice aids offer numerous benefits for both beginners and seasoned athletes alike. But why exactly are lacrosse rebounders so crucial for skill development?

Rebounders provide players with the opportunity to practice various techniques, including catching, throwing, and shooting, in a controlled environment. They allow for repetitive drills that help build muscle memory and improve hand-eye coordination. Moreover, rebounders can be used individually, making them an ideal tool for players who want to practice outside of team training sessions.

Key Benefits of Using a Lacrosse Rebounder

• Improved stick skills and ball control
• Enhanced accuracy in passing and shooting
• Increased reaction time and reflex development
• Versatility in practicing different techniques
• Convenience for solo practice sessions

Professional teams and collegiate programs have long recognized the value of rebound walls in their training routines. These structures allow players to simulate game-like situations and work on specific skills without the need for a partner. By incorporating rebounders into their practice regimens, teams can ensure that their players are constantly honing their abilities and staying sharp between matches.

Choosing the Right Location for Your Lacrosse Rebounder

Selecting an appropriate location for your lacrosse rebounder is crucial for maximizing its effectiveness and ensuring safety. When deciding on the perfect spot, consider factors such as available space, surface type, and proximity to other structures or people.

Ideally, you’ll want to place your rebounder on a flat, level surface with enough room for players to move freely. A grassy area or artificial turf can provide good traction and cushioning, while concrete or asphalt surfaces may be suitable if properly prepared. Ensure that there’s ample space behind the rebounder to accommodate errant shots and rebounds.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Location

1. Available space and dimensions
2. Surface type and condition
3. Proximity to buildings, windows, or other structures
4. Accessibility for players
5. Potential impact on neighbors or surrounding areas

In urban or suburban settings, it’s important to be mindful of noise levels and potential disruptions to neighbors. If possible, orient the rebounder away from nearby houses or buildings to minimize the impact of bouncing balls. Additionally, consider installing netting or fencing around the practice area to contain stray shots and protect surrounding property.

Essential Materials for Building a Lacrosse Rebounder

Before embarking on your DIY lacrosse rebounder project, it’s essential to gather all the necessary materials. The quality and durability of your rebounder will largely depend on the components you choose, so it’s worth investing in high-quality materials that can withstand frequent use and varying weather conditions.

Key Components for a Sturdy Lacrosse Rebounder

• Frame: Galvanized steel tubing or heavy-duty PVC pipes
• Netting: High-density polyethylene (HDPE) or nylon mesh
• Bungee cords or shock cords for attaching the net
• Ground anchors or weighted base for stability
• Protective padding (optional)

When selecting materials, consider factors such as durability, weather resistance, and ease of assembly. Galvanized steel tubing offers excellent strength and longevity but may require more specialized tools for construction. PVC pipes, while lighter and easier to work with, may not be as durable in the long run.

The netting material is crucial for the rebounder’s performance. HDPE mesh is known for its durability and resistance to UV rays, making it ideal for outdoor use. Nylon netting is another popular choice, offering good elasticity and bounce. Ensure that the mesh size is appropriate for lacrosse balls to prevent them from getting stuck or passing through.

Step-by-Step Guide to Constructing Your Lacrosse Rebounder

Building your own lacrosse rebounder can be a rewarding project that saves money while providing a customized training tool. Follow these steps to construct a sturdy and effective rebounder:

1. Design and measure: Sketch out your rebounder design and take precise measurements.
2. Cut the frame materials: Use a saw to cut the steel tubing or PVC pipes to the required lengths.
3. Assemble the frame: Connect the cut pieces using appropriate joints or connectors.
4. Attach the netting: Secure the mesh to the frame using bungee cords or a lacing system.
5. Install stability features: Add ground anchors or a weighted base to prevent tipping.
6. Test and adjust: Check the rebounder’s stability and make any necessary adjustments.

During assembly, pay close attention to the angle of the rebounder. A slight tilt (about 15-20 degrees) can help direct rebounds upward, simulating more realistic passes and shots. Ensure that all connections are secure and that the netting is taut to provide consistent rebounds.

Safety Considerations During Construction

• Wear protective gear such as gloves and safety glasses
• Use appropriate tools for cutting and assembly
• Follow manufacturer guidelines for any materials or components
• Enlist help for lifting and positioning heavy parts
• Double-check all connections and stability before use

Optimizing Your Rebounder for Different Skill Levels

One of the advantages of building your own lacrosse rebounder is the ability to customize it for various skill levels and training needs. By making simple adjustments or incorporating additional features, you can create a versatile practice tool that grows with the player’s abilities.

Adjustable Features for Skill Progression

• Interchangeable netting panels with different tensions
• Adjustable frame angles for varied rebound trajectories
• Removable target overlays for accuracy training
• Modular design for easy transport and storage

For beginners, a larger rebounder surface with softer netting can help build confidence and improve basic catching skills. As players advance, incorporating smaller target areas or using stiffer netting can increase the challenge and simulate more game-like situations.

Consider adding visual targets or numbered zones to the rebounder to enhance accuracy training. These can be painted directly onto the netting or created as removable overlays, allowing for a wide range of drills and exercises.

Maintenance and Care Tips for Your Lacrosse Rebounder

Proper maintenance of your lacrosse rebounder is essential for ensuring its longevity and optimal performance. Regular care can prevent wear and tear, extend the life of your equipment, and maintain consistent rebound quality. Here are some key maintenance tips to keep your rebounder in top condition:

Routine Maintenance Tasks

• Inspect the frame and netting for damage before each use
• Tighten any loose bolts or connections regularly
• Clean the netting with mild soap and water to remove dirt and debris
• Check and replace worn bungee cords or lacing as needed
• Apply rust-resistant coating to metal components annually

In addition to routine care, it’s important to protect your rebounder from the elements when not in use. If possible, store it in a covered area or use a weather-resistant cover to shield it from rain, snow, and direct sunlight. This will help prevent UV damage to the netting and reduce the risk of rust on metal components.

For rebounders with adjustable features, periodically lubricate moving parts to ensure smooth operation. If your rebounder is portable, check the integrity of wheels or carrying mechanisms regularly to maintain ease of transport.

Incorporating Your Rebounder into Effective Training Routines

Having a lacrosse rebounder is only the first step; knowing how to effectively incorporate it into your training routine is key to maximizing its benefits. A well-structured practice plan can help players develop a wide range of skills and improve their overall performance on the field.

Sample Rebounder Drills for Skill Development

1. Quick Stick Drill: Rapid-fire passing and catching to improve hand speed
2. Behind-the-Back Practice: Honing unconventional passing techniques
3. Shooting Accuracy: Aiming for specific targets on the rebounder
4. Ground Ball Pickups: Practicing scooping techniques off rebounds
5. One-Handed Catches: Enhancing stick control and coordination

When designing your training routine, focus on variety and progression. Start with basic drills to warm up and build confidence, then move on to more complex exercises that challenge your skills. Incorporate both stationary and moving drills to simulate game-like situations and improve overall agility.

Remember to practice both dominant and non-dominant hand skills to become a more versatile player. Set specific goals for each training session, such as completing a certain number of successful catches or achieving a target accuracy rate for shots.

Integrating Rebounder Practice with Team Training

• Use the rebounder for pre-practice warm-ups
• Incorporate rebounder stations into team drills
• Assign rebounder homework for players to practice independently
• Utilize the rebounder for skill assessments and progress tracking

By consistently incorporating rebounder practice into your training regimen, you can significantly enhance your lacrosse skills and overall performance. Remember to balance rebounder work with other aspects of lacrosse training, such as conditioning, tactical understanding, and live gameplay, to develop a well-rounded skill set.

Advanced Techniques and Drills for Experienced Players

As players progress in their lacrosse journey, they can leverage their rebounder to practice more advanced techniques and complex drills. These exercises are designed to challenge experienced players and push their skills to new heights, simulating high-pressure game situations and enhancing overall performance.

Advanced Rebounder Drills for Elite Players

1. Split Dodge to Shot: Practice explosive direction changes followed by accurate shots
2. Behind-the-Back to One-Handed Catch: Combine unconventional passing with challenging catches
3. Rapid Fire Shooting: Improve shot speed and accuracy under time pressure
4. Cross-Hand Catching: Enhance stick control with challenging catch positions
5. Multiple Rebounders Drill: Use two or more rebounders for complex passing patterns

When implementing advanced drills, focus on maintaining proper form and technique even as the difficulty increases. It’s essential to push your limits while still executing fundamentals correctly to avoid developing bad habits.

Experienced players can also benefit from incorporating cognitive challenges into their rebounder practice. For example, adding decision-making elements or reacting to verbal cues during drills can improve on-field awareness and response time.

Customizing Rebounder Setup for Advanced Training

• Adjust rebounder angles to create more challenging rebound trajectories
• Use smaller target areas to improve precision
• Incorporate moving targets for dynamic accuracy training
• Experiment with different netting materials for varied rebound speeds

By continually refining and expanding your rebounder training routine, you can ensure that your skills continue to evolve, even at advanced levels of play. Remember to periodically reassess your strengths and weaknesses, adjusting your practice focus accordingly to maintain a well-rounded skill set.

Wait, that Wellesley lacrosse wall plan is still bouncing around?

Lacrosse enthusiasts in Wellesley have been looking to locate a rebound wall in town for years, and after a recent Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) meeting that took up the topic, it’s still unclear whether we’re close to seeing such a structure.

No offense to the ZBA members, but I felt like my head was a wall having a lacrosse ball bounced off it for an hour-plus of watching & rewatching the April 21 ZBA meeting. It was an event only a truly policy wonk could love, as ZBA members thoughtfully explained and discussed their predicament in this case (the action starts at about the 1-hour, 52-minute mark of the Wellesley Media recording).

“The difficulty is two-fold. The first is it’s a small project and the ZBA is not empowered to review it and even if we decided we could review it, the criteria that we use for major projects is inapplicable…” ZBA Chair Randy Becker stated near the start of the hearing. “From our perspective this is not about the Sprague Field wall, this is about a request to have the ZBA do something that it’s not authorized to do under the bylaw. So that’s the box we’re in.”

Proposed location of Sprague Fields lacrosse wall shown at July 2021 Design Review Board meeting (via Wellesley Media)

Famous Walls: The Wall at Fenway Park was originally built from wood at 25 feet high in 1925, but after a fire at the park in 1934 it was rebuilt, and now the 37-foot-plus Green Monster consists of concrete, tin, and plastic, and has pricey seats on top.

The upshot of the hearing is that there will be another one at the ZBA on May 19. The challenge for the ZBA is that the cement rebound wall—which could be used for lacrosse, soccer, etc.—would be considered a minor project, and is more in the domain of the School Committee, which owns the targeted location at Sprague Fields, and the Design Review Board. However, to move things forward, the ZBA may need to amend the special permit issued back in 2008 and one or more of its conditions.

Town Engineer Dave Hickey, who updated the ZBA on the proposed practice wall, said discussion of where to put such a structure goes back to the renovations at the Hunnewell track and field that finished in 2016. Some thought was given to putting the wall on that property, possibly replacing the existing tennis rebound wall near the courts on Rte. 16, but it was determined that wouldn’t work.

So on to Sprague Fields, which were remediated and transformed under a master plan from 2007-2008, that Hickey said during the recent ZBA hearing was “intended to be somewhat rigid, but recognize that this is an athletic field…” The School Department, Playing Fields Task Force, and others in town government have embarked in a process over the years to add a rebound wall to Sprague Fields even though the authors of the master plan hadn’t envisioned one back then.

The sport has become much more popular in town since then, even supporting a Wellesley Square store dedicated to lacrosse that opened in 2011. While many lacrosse players in town make do with backyard backstops, head over the Bates playground wall, or other building walls, coaches and others cherish the idea of having a more official wall for practices. Hickey has referred to the wall as “a priority project” for the Playing Fields Task Force and the schools, but as with so many town efforts, the COVID-19 pandemic hasn’t helped move things along.

Sunday lacrosse match at Sprague Fields

Famous Walls: King Nebuchadnezzar II (r. 605-562 BCE) built three Walls around Babylon at heights of forty feet and so broad at the top that chariots could race around them. 

Most of the public discussion about the wall has taken place at the Playing Fields Task Force, including a presentation in June of 2018 that included lots of pictures of walls in other nearby communities (the task force has collected additional documents on the town website). Included in the pitch prepared by youth coach Matt Fantasia: Walls are an “absolute game changer in any town lacrosse program with regard to development trajectory, as evident by the numerous surrounding communities with outstanding, successful lacrosse programs (Lincoln-Sudbury, Medfield, Hingham, to name a few).” An approximate cost was listed as $20K to $30K.

The School Committee that summer aired its support for the project, then estimated to cost between $30K and $50K, with monies coming from the Field Fund. (We’ve reached out to town officials for the latest cost estimate and clarification on where the money is coming from.)

Those in town government promoting the idea have met with neighbors since early on, including at a meeting at the Sprague Elementary School Library in November of 2019. At that point, three possible sites at Sprague Fields were on the table, down from an original four potential spots.

Famous Walls: According to Encyclopedia Brittanica, The Great Wall of China is “the most extensive and best-preserved version of the wall dates from the Ming dynasty (1368–1644) and runs for some 5,500 miles (8,850 km) east to west from Mount Hu near Dandong, southeastern Liaoning province, to Jiayu Pass west of Jiuquan, northwestern Gansu province.

Hickey acknowledges that placement of the wall has been an issue debated among neighbors, with those living near the tennis courts behind the middle school wanting the wall away from them, and those living closer to the baseball field wanting it away from them. Video shared by the Playing Fields Task Force shows the sound of lacrosse balls hitting a rebound in Wellesley doesn’t raise the decibel level much—though your mileage may vary based on how loud the players’ voices are.

Neighbors spoke at the ZBA meeting, citing safety concerns for an elderly couple that lives near the current proposed wall location behind the facilities building. That couple has already compiled quite a collection of softballs and baseballs thrown or hit into their yard, according to neighbors.

That location behind the facilities building is also next to a scraggly natural habitat garden that Hickey said will get spruced up a bit under the plan (though the idea is for the habitat to be natural). That same building is adorned with signs warning people not to bounce balls off of it, and the planned wall would include protections to prevent use of the building surface for ball play.

The pre-cast concrete wall itself would stand 12 feet high and be 32 feet wide. It would be sandwiched by 30-foot playing surfaces on either side.

Famous Walls: Some $15B was allocated to expanding the U.S.-Mexico Border Wall during the last U.S. Administration, though most spending went toward shoring up the existing wall.

The School Committee gave the spot behind the facilities building at Sprague Fields its blessing in November of 2019, according to School Committee Member Linda Chow, who updated the group on the status of the wall during its May 3, 2022 meeting (about 7 minutes into the Wellesley Media recording).

She stressed the efforts made to engage the community in the process. The School Committee and Playing Fields Task Force jointly sent a letter of support for the project to the ZBA in March of 2021 as well, and from there efforts were made to get the project on the ZBA agenda. Department of Public Works Director David Cohen that May said during a Playing Fields Task Force meeting that the town was looking to “punch this thing over the goal line” and get it completed for about $80K that summer.

Hickey reviewed the plan for the proposed wall setup later last year, during a July 14, Design Review Board meeting (about 1 hour, 25 minutes into the Wellesley Media recording). It got the Board’s approval, though he was urged to have a more sustainable plan in place for future projects.

Famous Walls: Pink Floyd’s The Wall album was recorded from December 1978 to November 1979, and was released  in 1979. It was adapted as a film in 1982.

Where the wall project goes from here could be determined in part by that next ZBA meeting. In the meantime, proponents are itching for it to be built.

“I have been involved in trying to help get the lacrosse wall build from day 1,” says Wellesley High Athletic Director John Brown, who shared a video of such a wall in use at Lincoln-Sudbury. “It has been a very frustrating process as we try to continue to help give student athletes opportunities to play and to help improve in sports that they love. Hopefully we are able to get this wall built at Sprague… These walls are in many of the towns that we compete against and are great to help kids improve their skills and are not a problem.”

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Top Lacrosse Rebounder for Perfect Practice | by Lacrossee | Jun, 2023

6 min read

·

Jun 15

🥍Looking for the perfect lacrosse rebounder to improve your game? Look no further! In this article, we’ll explore the top rebounders on the market, so you can find the one that suits your needs.

🔎Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, a rebounder is an essential tool for honing your skills. It allows you to practice your passing, catching, and shooting without the need for a partner. Plus, it’s a great way to improve your hand-eye coordination and reaction time.

💪We’ve scoured the internet to find the best lacrosse rebounders available. From portable options that are perfect for on-the-go practice to heavy-duty models that can withstand even the toughest shots, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in and find the perfect rebounder for you!

1. Importance of Lacrosse Rebounder in Perfecting Your Skills

Practicing your lacrosse skills is essential to becoming a better player. A rebounder can help you perfect your game by allowing you to practice on your own.

• 🎯 Improve your shooting accuracy
• 🏃‍♂️ Work on your footwork
• 🥍 Perfect your passing and catching

A rebounder is a versatile piece of equipment that can be used for a variety of drills. It can also be adjusted to different angles, making it a great tool for practicing different types of shots.

Using a rebounder regularly can help you develop muscle memory and improve your reaction time. It can also help you build confidence in your skills, which is essential for success on the field.

Investing in a high-quality rebounder is a smart choice for any serious lacrosse player. With regular use, you’ll see significant improvements in your game and be able to take your skills to the next level.

2. Top Features to Consider When Choosing a Lacrosse Rebounder

When choosing a lacrosse rebounder, consider these top features:

• Size: Ensure the rebounder is large enough for your needs.
• Adjustability: Look for a rebounder that can be adjusted to different angles.
• Portability: Consider a lightweight and foldable rebounder for easy transport.
• Durability: Choose a rebounder made with sturdy materials to withstand heavy use.
• Netting: Look for a rebounder with high-quality netting to ensure longevity.
• Price: Consider the price in relation to the features and quality of the rebounder.

Size matters when it comes to a lacrosse rebounder. Ensure it’s large enough for your needs, whether it’s for personal or team use.

Adjustability is key. Look for a rebounder that can be adjusted to different angles for various drills and skill levels.

Portability is essential for those on the go. Consider a lightweight and foldable rebounder for easy transport to and from practice or games.

Durability is important for heavy use. Choose a rebounder made with sturdy materials to withstand the wear and tear of daily practice.

Netting quality is crucial for longevity. Look for a rebounder with high-quality netting to ensure it lasts for multiple seasons.

Price is a factor to consider. Look for a rebounder that fits your budget while still offering the necessary features and quality.

3. Top 5 Lacrosse Rebounders for Perfect Practice

Practice makes perfect, and having the right equipment can make all the difference in your lacrosse game. Here are the top 5 lacrosse rebounders to help you perfect your skills:

• STX Bounce Back — Durable and versatile, this rebounder is perfect for solo practice and can be adjusted to different angles.
• Champion Sports Deluxe — With a sturdy steel frame and adjustable angles, this rebounder is great for both beginners and advanced players.
• Brine Lax Wall — This rebounder is designed specifically for lacrosse and has a large surface area for practicing a variety of skills.
• Gladiator Lacrosse Professional — Heavy-duty and adjustable, this rebounder is perfect for serious players looking to improve their game.
• EZGoal Professional Folding — Easy to set up and fold away, this rebounder is perfect for those with limited space and is great for practicing accuracy.

No matter which rebounder you choose, make sure to practice regularly and use proper technique. 🥍🏆

4. How to Properly Use a Lacrosse Rebounder for Maximum Benefit

Using a lacrosse rebounder can improve your skills dramatically. Here’s how to get the most out of it:

• Always wear protective gear, including a helmet and gloves.
• Position the rebounder at a slight angle to simulate game situations.
• Start with easy throws and gradually increase the difficulty level.
• Experiment with different angles and distances to improve your accuracy.
• Practice both left and right-handed throws to improve your overall game.
• Use the rebounder for solo practice or with a partner for passing drills.
• Take breaks to avoid overuse injuries and fatigue.
• Clean and maintain the rebounder regularly for longevity.

By following these tips, you can maximize your training and become a better lacrosse player. 🥍👊

5. Maintenance Tips for Your Lacrosse Rebounder to Ensure Longevity

Regular maintenance can extend the life of your lacrosse rebounder. Here are some tips:

• Clean the netting with soap and water to prevent mold and mildew buildup.
• Check the frame for rust and apply a rust inhibitor if necessary.
• Inspect the bungee cords and replace any that are worn or frayed.
• Store the rebounder in a dry, covered area to prevent weather damage.
• Use a protective cover when transporting the rebounder to prevent scratches and dents.

By following these simple tips, you can ensure your lacrosse rebounder lasts for years to come. 🥍

6. Benefits of Incorporating a Lacrosse Rebounder in Your Training Routine

Adding a lacrosse rebounder to your training routine can have numerous benefits, including:

• Improving hand-eye coordination and reaction time 🎯
• Enhancing passing accuracy and power 💪
• Increasing shot speed and accuracy 🚀
• Developing muscle memory for stick skills 🏹
• Building endurance and agility 🏃‍♂️
• Providing a solo practice option 🙌

Using a rebounder allows for repetitive practice of various lacrosse skills, leading to more efficient and effective training sessions. It also allows for flexibility in training location and schedule.

By incorporating a rebounder into your routine, you can focus on specific areas of improvement and track progress over time.