What are the essential lacrosse goal crease rules. How can goalies leverage their privileges inside the crease. What restrictions apply to offensive and defensive players in the crease area. How can players master the intricacies of the lacrosse crease to gain a competitive edge.
Understanding the Lacrosse Goal Crease Area
The lacrosse goal crease is a crucial area on the field that plays a significant role in the game’s dynamics. It is a designated space surrounding the goal where specific rules apply to both offensive and defensive players. Understanding these rules is essential for all players, especially goalies, to excel in their positions and contribute effectively to their team’s success.
The crease serves multiple purposes in lacrosse:
- It provides a protected area for the goalie to operate
- It establishes boundaries for offensive and defensive players
- It influences shooting and scoring opportunities
- It affects possession and clearing strategies
Are there different crease rules for different levels of play? Indeed, while the core principles remain consistent, there may be slight variations in crease rules between youth, high school, college, and professional lacrosse. It’s crucial for players and coaches to familiarize themselves with the specific regulations governing their level of play.
Lacrosse Crease Rules for Goalies: Privileges and Responsibilities
Goalies enjoy several unique privileges within the crease area, making it their domain on the field. These privileges are designed to protect the goalie and facilitate their role in defending the goal. Here are some key benefits goalies have inside the crease:
- Protection from offensive contact
- Privileged clearing ability
- 5-second crease protection on loose balls
- Immunity from offside checks
- Unlimited ball retention time
- Freedom from crease violation calls
- Priority on stopped balls within the crease
How can goalies leverage these privileges to improve their performance? By understanding and utilizing these advantages, goalies can:
- Position themselves more aggressively to cut down shooting angles
- Clear the ball more effectively using hand or stick techniques
- Control the pace of the game during clearing situations
- Protect themselves from unnecessary physical contact
- Dominate loose ball situations near the goal
Offensive Player Restrictions in the Lacrosse Crease
While goalies enjoy numerous privileges in the crease, offensive players face several restrictions when operating in this area. These rules are designed to maintain fair play and protect the goalie. Here are the key restrictions for offensive players:
- No physical contact with the goalie inside the crease
- Limited to a 5-second grace period for loose ball recovery
- Prohibited from interfering with the goalie’s movements or saves
- Must avoid stepping in the crease before a shot is taken
- Cannot dislodge the ball from a goalie’s possession within the crease
How do these restrictions impact offensive strategy? Offensive players must be mindful of their positioning and movements near the crease to avoid penalties. They need to develop techniques for shooting and passing that don’t violate crease rules while still creating scoring opportunities.
Crease Diving: A Controversial Technique
Crease diving is a technique where an offensive player leaps or dives across the crease line to score. This move is controversial and subject to specific rules:
- The player’s feet must leave the ground outside the crease
- The ball must cross the goal line before the player touches the crease
- The player must avoid contact with the goalie
Is crease diving legal in all levels of lacrosse? The legality of crease diving varies depending on the league and level of play. In some leagues, it’s prohibited entirely, while in others, it’s allowed under strict conditions. Players should always check the specific rules for their league before attempting this technique.
Defensive Player Interactions with the Lacrosse Crease
Defensive players also have specific guidelines when it comes to the crease area. While they have more freedom than offensive players, there are still important rules to follow:
- Defenders can enter the crease to block shots or intercept passes
- They must avoid interfering with the goalie’s movements
- Defenders cannot push offensive players into the crease
- They are allowed to reach into the crease to play loose balls
- Defensive players can’t use the crease as a shortcut to reach offensive players
How can defenders use the crease to their advantage without violating rules? Smart defenders can position themselves near the crease to cut off passing lanes and challenge shots. They can also use the crease area to communicate with their goalie and coordinate defensive strategies.
Mastering Lacrosse Crease Dimensions and Markings
Understanding the precise dimensions and markings of the lacrosse crease is crucial for players and officials alike. The crease’s size and shape can vary slightly depending on the level of play, but generally follows these guidelines:
Standard Crease Dimensions
- Circular shape
- 9 feet (2.74 meters) in radius
- Measured from the center of the goal line
Required Crease Markings
- Clearly visible lines marking the crease boundary
- Goal line extending through the crease
- Center point for measuring the crease radius
Why is it important for players to be familiar with crease dimensions? Knowledge of crease dimensions helps players:
- Position themselves effectively on the field
- Avoid unintentional crease violations
- Execute plays that utilize the crease area strategically
- Understand the spatial limitations and opportunities near the goal
Strategies for Dominating the Lacrosse Crease Area
Mastering the lacrosse crease area can significantly enhance a player’s performance, regardless of their position. Here are some strategies for different positions to dominate the crease:
Goalie Strategies
- Use the crease as a reference point for positioning
- Leverage crease privileges to control the pace of clears
- Communicate effectively with defenders from within the crease
- Practice quick hand and stick clears from various crease positions
Offensive Player Strategies
- Develop precise footwork to avoid crease violations
- Master techniques for shooting and passing near the crease
- Practice crease dives (where legal) with proper form
- Use the crease as a pick to create separation from defenders
Defensive Player Strategies
- Position yourself strategically near the crease to intercept passes
- Practice reaching into the crease to play loose balls legally
- Coordinate with the goalie to create an effective crease defense
- Use the crease area to challenge shots without interfering with the goalie
How can teams incorporate crease-specific drills into their practice routines? Coaches can design drills that focus on:
- Quick decision-making near the crease
- Proper footwork and body positioning
- Coordinated defensive movements around the crease
- Goalie-defender communication in crease situations
Common Crease Violations and How to Avoid Them
Understanding and avoiding crease violations is crucial for maintaining fair play and preventing penalties. Here are some common crease violations and tips to avoid them:
Offensive Crease Violations
- Stepping in the crease before a shot is released
- Interfering with the goalie inside the crease
- Remaining in the crease for more than 5 seconds on a loose ball
Defensive Crease Violations
- Pushing an offensive player into the crease
- Interfering with the goalie’s movement within the crease
- Using the crease as a shortcut to defend an opponent
How can players train themselves to avoid crease violations instinctively? Regular practice and awareness drills can help players develop a natural sense of crease boundaries. Coaches should emphasize proper technique and positioning near the crease during all aspects of practice.
The Impact of Crease Play on Lacrosse Strategy and Tactics
The lacrosse crease area significantly influences team strategies and individual tactics. Understanding how to leverage the crease can give teams a competitive edge. Here’s how crease play impacts various aspects of the game:
Offensive Strategy
- Creating shooting opportunities near the crease
- Using the crease as a pivot point for offensive movements
- Developing plays that exploit crease rules
Defensive Strategy
- Coordinating crease defense with the goalie
- Using the crease to channel offensive players into less advantageous positions
- Developing strategies for contesting loose balls near the crease
Transition Play
- Utilizing goalie clearing privileges to initiate fast breaks
- Defending against quick restarts from the crease area
- Incorporating crease play into clear and ride strategies
How does effective crease play contribute to a team’s overall success? Teams that master crease dynamics often gain advantages in:
- Ball possession and control
- Scoring efficiency
- Defensive stability
- Transition effectiveness
By incorporating crease-specific strategies into their game plan, teams can create unique opportunities and challenges for their opponents.
Evolving Crease Rules: Adapting to Changes in Lacrosse
Like many aspects of lacrosse, crease rules have evolved over time to enhance player safety, improve game flow, and address emerging tactics. Understanding these changes and their implications is crucial for players, coaches, and fans alike.
Recent Rule Changes
- Modifications to crease dive regulations
- Adjustments to goalie interference interpretations
- Clarifications on defensive player crease interactions
Potential Future Changes
- Expansion or reduction of crease dimensions
- New restrictions or allowances for offensive players
- Alterations to goalie privileges within the crease
How do rule changes impact player development and team strategies? As rules evolve, players and teams must adapt their techniques and tactics accordingly. This ongoing process of adaptation keeps the sport dynamic and challenging, requiring continuous learning and skill refinement.
Staying Informed About Rule Changes
To stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of lacrosse, players, coaches, and officials should:
- Regularly review official rule books and updates
- Attend coaching and officiating clinics
- Participate in discussions about potential rule changes
- Practice adaptability in training sessions
By staying informed and adaptable, lacrosse enthusiasts can ensure they’re always playing and coaching according to the most current standards, maximizing their effectiveness on the field.
What is the Lacrosse Goal Crease Area?
Lacrosse Crease Rules for Goalies
Lacrosse Crease Rules for Offensive Players
Tips for Mastering the Lacrosse Crease Area
Lacrosse Goal Crease Dimensions and Markings
Dimensions of the Lacrosse Goal Crease
Required Crease Markings in Lacrosse
Variations in Crease Size and Shape
Tips for Mastering the Lacrosse Crease
Who Can Enter the Lacrosse Goal Crease?
Goalies Have Primary Crease Access
Offensive Players Have Limited Crease Access
Defensive Players Also Have Limited Crease Access
Crease Access Summary
Lacrosse Goalie Privileges Inside the Crease
As a lacrosse goalie, the crease is your domain. This small area in front of the goal gives you special privileges and protections that other players on the field don’t have. Understanding these perks, and using them to your advantage, can be the difference between letting in an easy score or stuffing the ball carrier on their way to the cage.
Let’s break down the key privileges you enjoy as a goalie inside the crease, and how you can leverage them to dominate between the pipes.
Protection from Offensive Contact
The crease is your safe zone. Offensive players aren’t allowed to make contact with you inside the crease, whether intentionally or unintentionally. This prevents them from dislodging you from your position in front of the goal or redirecting your clears.
Use this protection to your advantage by holding your ground inside the crease on shot attempts. Don’t be afraid to get physical with a dodging attackman or oncoming midfielder. As long as you maintain your position inside the crease, any contact will go in your favor.
Privileged Clearing Ability
As a goalie, you’re allowed to rake or bat the ball out of the crease with your hand in order to make a clear. Field players don’t have this ability – they must keep the ball in their stick and can only use their feet or stick to advance the ball on a clear.
Take advantage of this privilege to quickly clear contested ground balls from the crease area. Don’t be afraid to use your hand to bat the ball clear of traffic in front of the goal. Your defenders will thank you for quickly advancing the ball their way.
5-Second Crease Protection
Offensive players are only given a 5-second grace period to recover a loose ball or corral a feed in the crease. After 5 seconds elapse, you have free reign to grab possession or bat the ball out of the crease.
Use the 5-second count to your benefit by being patient on loose balls in the crease. Don’t be rushed into grabbing it too soon. Let the 5-seconds expire so you can gain full possession unimpeded.
No Goalie Interference
Offensive players cannot interfere with you while you are within the crease area. What this means is opponents can’t make contact with your body or stick that prevents you from making a save or hinders your ability to play your position.
Don’t be afraid to call out interference if an offensive player makes illegal contact with you in the crease. This call often goes in the goalie’s favor, so don’t hesitate to make your case to the officials.
Immunity From Offside Checks
As a goalie, you cannot be called for offside while inside the crease. This allows you freedom of movement within the crease without having to worry about straying offside.
Take advantage of this immunity to aggressively challenge shooters up to the front of the crease. Don’t worry if your momentum takes you out of the goal mouth momentarily to challenge a shot or pass. As long as part of your body remains grounded in the crease, you’re immune from offside penalties.
No Goalie Ball Retention Limits
Field players are limited to holding the ball for 4-6 seconds before they must pass or shoot. As a goalie in the crease, however, you have unlimited time to maintain possession.
Leverage this exemption by taking your time with clears. Fake passes, call out plays, and wait patiently for the right opening to develop. Unlike field players who feel rushed, you dictate the pace of the clear while inside the crease.
No Crease Violation Calls
Offensive players can be called for a crease violation if they step in the crease before a shot is taken. As the goalie, however, you have unlimited crease access and will never be flagged for a crease violation.
Don’t be afraid to move aggressively around the crease area to cut down shooting and passing angles. Unlike offensive players who have to stay out, you’re free to roam the crease as needed to make plays without worrying about a penalty.
Priority on Stopped Balls
Any loose ball that comes to rest inside the crease is automatically your possession as the goalie. Field players cannot check your stick or body to pry away a controlled ball within the crease.
Call for every ground ball that settles inside the crease, and shield your stick from poke checks as you corral the ball. The crease is your area, and all balls on the ground belong to you.
No Goal Calls for Crease Violations
If an offensive player enters the crease prior to a shot, you have the power to call off any resulting goal as a crease violation. This unique privilege allows you to overturn goals even after a shot gets by you.
Keep your eyes peeled for early crease violations by overeager cutters crashing the goal. If they step in early before a shot, don’t hesitate to call for no goal, even if you fail to make the initial save.
As you can see, lacrosse grants goalies like you numerous powers and freedoms within the crease that other positions don’t enjoy. Mastering these privileges, and leveraging them to your advantage, is key to controlling the action around the cage and stopping the opposition. With crease dominance comes goalie confidence. Take command of your domain!
Offensive Lacrosse Players in the Crease
The lacrosse crease is a sacred space on the field. Only the goalie can occupy it on defense, while offensive players endeavor to penetrate its boundaries to get close to the net. Mastering crease play is an essential part of an offensive player’s development.
As an offensive player, understanding crease rules and techniques is crucial for scoring goals. Here we’ll explore strategies for dodging, cutting, and shooting within the arc around the goal.
Crease Rules
The crease is the 9 foot diameter circle around the goal. Offensive players can step in the crease, but cannot touch the ground with anything other than their feet. They also cannot occupy the crease for more than 3 seconds unless they are in possession of the ball.
Defensive players cannot make contact with offensive players within the crease. Doing so results in a time serving penalty. Offensive players can use this rule to their advantage by driving hard to the crease on their dodge, forcing defenders to back off.
When shooting, offensive players must keep one foot out of the crease. Shots taken while fully inside the arc are disallowed. Officials are strict on this rule, so offensive players must be aware of their foot position when dodging toward the crease.
Dodging to the Crease
Dodging is how offensive players get past defenders to create scoring opportunities. Successfully dodging to the crease allows high percentage shots right on the doorstep.
When dodging to the crease, the first step is to beat your defender topside or underneath. Topside dodges use quick stickwork and body position to get above the defender. Under dodges look to get leverage underneath and roll back to the middle.
Once you gain a step, turn your shoulders and explode to the crease. Drive hard with your legs and get to top speed quickly. Soft dodges that allow defenders to recover are less effective.
As you approach the crease, keep your head up and see if you have help. If a slide comes, be ready to dump a pass off. If not, get as deep as you can while keeping a foot out of the crease and look to shoot.
Cutting into the Crease
Cutting refers to working off ball to get open for a feed. Well-timed cuts into the crease allow easy goals on feeds across the middle.
When cutting into the crease, make sharp v-cuts or l-cuts from the weak side. Time your cut so you’re moving toward the crease as the ball carrier initiates the feed.
Cut hard and sell out for the feed. Meet the pass out front and power step to get your feet in shooting position. Keep your stick up ready to catch and shoot in one motion.
Avoid rounding your cut or drifting into the crease too early. Stay disciplined in your route to time up perfectly with the pass.
Shooting in the Crease
Getting in tight for high percentage shots is the reward for successfully dodging and cutting to the crease. Excellent shooting technique is required to convert these opportunities.
When shooting in the crease, players should hustle to get their feet set and shoulders squared up. Keep your bottom hand out front and top hand on the side of the head. Aim for the high corners just under the crossbar.
Wrist and snap shots are most effective on crease shots. Full windups allow goalies to react. Quick sticks from in close are the best bet.
After releasing your shot, avoid crowding the goalie. Quickly retreat out of the crease to allow a potential rebound shot.
On shots from the crease, placement beats power. Don’t overshoot. Put it where the goalie ain’t, even if it’s a bounce shot.
Master the Crease
Dominating the crease area leads to more goals scored. Use fast, committed dodges, perfectly timed cuts, and quick-release shots to capitalize on crease opportunities.
Repetition and game experience will make crease play second nature. Don’t be afraid to take some lumps early on. Staying composed in the teeth of the defense is key.
The crease belongs to you on offense. Use footwork, positioning, vision and lacrosse IQ to own that precious real estate in front of the cage. Do that consistently and you’ll be putting up crooked numbers for your team in no time.
Lacrosse Ball Possession and the Crease
The lacrosse crease is one of the most important yet often misunderstood parts of the field. As the sacred area around the goal, the crease plays a pivotal role in attacking and defensive strategy. Understanding the nuances of crease rules is essential for dominating between the pipes.
The basics first – the crease is the nine foot diameter circle around the goal. Only the goalkeeper and those defending the cage may occupy this zone. Attackers may reach their stick into the crease to receive a pass or take a shot, but cannot step inside with their body. Doing so results in a turnover.
This crafty restriction ignites a cat-and-mouse game between dodging attackers and goalies. Attackers dance along the perimeter, baiting keepers to lunge outside the crease. Once that happens, the cage is free for easy goals. Goalies must resist overcommitting, carefully timing checks and outlet passes.
Patience and positioning are key for netminders. Stay centered in the crease until the last possible moment. Let attackers come to you – don’t chase and lose your angle. Mastering this restraint separates superb goalies from the average.
Attackers can use crease rules to their advantage too. Fake high and shoot low, knowing the keeper can’t protect the entire goal. If he leaves his feet, quickly wrap around for an empty netter. Feeders should place passes to lead teammates toward open cages.
During scrambles, the crease becomes a high-stakes game of inches. Off-ball cutters slice toward the goal, timing their cuts to receive feeds just outside the crease. Defenders body up, trying to force opponents out while avoiding the crease violation.
Here’s where it gets tricky – offensive players can reach their stick into the crease to receive passes or retrieve loose balls. However, their feet cannot touch inside the line. Mastering this footwork takes precision.
During shot attempts, officials allow more leeway. Shooters may step on the crease line, but not fully inside it. Trail officials watch closely for violations, which can happen in a split-second.
Goalies gain extra protection in the crease after saves and on outlet passes. Offensive players cannot check a goalie’s crosse until fully outside the crease. Nor can they impede a keeper’s outlet pass in any way.
Savvy goalies bait opponents into early checks by pump faking passes while still in the crease. This draws flags for illegal checks, giving their team a man up opportunity.
Crease infractions often decide games, so players must know the rules inside out. Offensive players practice footwork drills, tapping a toe on the line without stepping in. Goalies learn to lead attackers outside the crease before attempting checks.
Teams with crease mastery gain a big edge. On defense, they’ll force opponents into tougher angles and deny easy goals. On offense, they’ll use clever footwork to find holes in the goalie’s stance for high percentage shots.
While lacrosse originated from Native American stickball games, the concept of the crease didn’t develop until 1883. Legendary Baltimorean William H. Schmeisser introduced the circle to keep bullying offensive players from camping directly in front of the goal.
The crease shape and dimensions evolved over the next thirty years before settling into today’s configuration. Interestingly, women’s lacrosse uses a slightly smaller 8 foot crease.
Understanding lacrosse goal crease rules takes practice, but mastery will help you dominate between the pipes. Patient positioning as a goalie and precise footwork as a dodger are key. Use the crease rules to your advantage and dictate the tempo of the game.
Scooping Ground Balls Inside the Crease
In the fast-paced game of lacrosse, ground balls are a fundamental part of gaining and maintaining possession. And when those loose balls end up inside the crease around the goal, the stakes get even higher.
As the sacred nine foot diameter circle surrounding the goal, the crease plays host to many skirmishes for possession. Knowing the ins and outs of scooping ground balls inside this vital area is a must for dominating games.
First, let’s review the basics – only the goalkeeper and defenders actively guarding the cage may occupy the crease. Attackers must stay out with their bodies, but may reach their stick in to receive passes or shoot.
When the ball hits the turf, however, some of these restrictions relax momentarily. Both teams have equal rights to chase down and scoop loose balls even if they end up inside the crease.
The key is that neither team can use their body to box out or impede opponents battling for the ball. Legal stick checks are allowed, but incidental contact and blatant interference will draw whistles.
Once possession is gained, normal crease rules resume. If an attacker scoops the ball, he must immediately exit the crease area entirely. Failure to do so in a timely manner results in a turnover.
For defenders, gaining possession inside their own crease allows them a moment to collect themselves and clear the ball safely. Goalies use this leeway to corral the ball and look upfield for outlet passes.
Here are some key strategies for scooping balls in the crease:
– Approach from the side – Scooping head-on often leads to clashes. Swing wide and use your body position to protect your stick.
– Box out – After scooping, keep your feet planted and your rear end out to shield the ball. Don’t be afraid of contact within reason.
– Cradle hard – Clamp down with your bottom hand and keep the stick head elevated and the ball buried.
– Move your feet – Spin or pivot away from pressure but don’t blindly run out of the crease. Look for outlets first.
– Call for help – Let teammates know you need support. Call “I’m in!” so they can prevent a trail check.
Scooping contested ground balls requires grit. Don’t be intimidated by the mass of bodies and sticks – dive into the scrum boldly.
Get low for leverage, keep your stick protected, and be ready to absorb contact. Gaining possession in a crowd is all about toughness and technique.
Goalies must be especially brave. Don’t be afraid to leave the comfort of your crease and get down in the fray. Use your large mesh net to smother loose balls before the defense can react.
Also utilize the privilege of extra space and time to cleanly scoop and look upfield. Then rocket precise outlet passes to transition defenders into instant offense.
For attackers, scooping inside the crease requires quick reflexes and urgent footwork. Slip your stick through seams to steal the ground ball, then immediately spin out of the crease to avoid a turnover.
As in hockey, battles in the “lacrosse crease” often determine games. Mastering ground ball scrambles in this high-risk, high-reward area of the field leads directly to more possession and scoring.
With the right techniques and gritty attitude, you can dominate ground ball scrums even when surrounded by multiple opponents. Control the crease and you’ll control the tempo of the game.
Lacrosse Goal Crease Violations
The lacrosse crease is ground zero for some of the most pivotal plays in the game. But make the wrong move in this sacred zone, and you’ll quickly hear the ref’s whistle for a crease violation.
As the nine foot diameter circle surrounding the goal, the crease has strict rules about which players can occupy the area and when. Know the ins and outs to avoid costly infractions.
The basics: Only the goalie and defenders actively marking the cage may be inside the crease. Offensive players must remain completely outside the cylinder with their feet and body.
Attackers may reach their stick into the crease to receive passes, scoop ground balls, or take shots. But they cannot step inside for any reason without drawing a whistle.
By far the most common crease violation is an attacker stepping inside. Officials watch closely for these infractions which often occur on shot attempts near the crease.
Even grazing the line with a toe for a split second gets called. Shooters must be extremely careful with their footwork and body position on dodges toward the crease.
Rake shots are particularly risky. Attackers often gain poor shooting angles and instinctively step into the crease for balance. Quick resets are critical to avoid whistles.
Crease violations also frequently occur on quick sticks and rolls to the cage. Attackers fail to plant and pivot outside the crease before reaching their stick in to receive passes.
Late reactions or lazy footwork after catching get flagged. Mastering the coordination of handling passes while avoiding the crease takes precision.
Defenders can also be whistled for crease infractions. Though allowed inside the crease when actively marking their man, they cannot blatantly interfere with shots.
Overzealous defense will draw push calls. Similarly, slashing shooters’ sticks in the crease leads to penalties even if normally allowed during play.
Goalies too must avoid illegally checking sticks outside the crease. After saving a shot, keepers have leniency to clear into the crease before passing or being checked.
But pump fakes and early outlet passes may bait opponents into illegal checks. Savvy goalies exploit this to draw man-up opportunities.
Perhaps most maddening are crease violations on recovered shots. Attackers cannot touch ground balls that come to rest inside the crease until officially signaled over the end line.
Even if the ball clearly crosses the goal line, players must wait for the referee’s whistle. Jumping the gun leads to possession going the other way.
With today’s larger sticks and pinpoint passing, the crease sees as much action as ever. Mastering proper positioning and footwork in this vital area is a must.
Drills isolating crease play help engrain reflexive habits. Coaches set up stations with cones and emphasize planting pivots outside the cylinder.
Repetition builds muscle memory to avoid costly violations. Take time to learn the crease intricacies and you’ll take a big step toward dominating games.
The lacrosse goal crease is one of the most important yet often misunderstood parts of the field. As the last line of defense before the goal, mastering play inside the crease is essential for goalies and defenders who want to dominate between the pipes. Let’s break down the essential lacrosse goal crease rules and strategies to give you an edge over your opponents.
Lacrosse Goal Crease Rules: The Essential Guide
The goal crease area is a 9 foot radius semi-circle around the goal. As a goalie, the crease is your sanctuary – the one place on the field where you have special protections from opposing players:
- No offensive player may make contact with the goalie or their stick within the crease. This includes incidental contact.
- Offensive players cannot step or have their sticks break the plane of the crease circle before the ball enters the crease. If they do, it’s a turnover.
- Defenders are allowed to briefly step into the crease as long as they don’t impede the goalie’s ability to make a save.
Knowing these crease rules is key for goalies relying on them for protection and defenders trying not to illegally step into the goalie’s space.
The crease area extends vertically too. Offensive players cannot reach their stick over the cylinder above the crease to interfere with a goalie or shot in progress. Defenders must also be careful not to make illegal contact with a goalie’s stick above the crease when blocking a shot.
In addition to protecting the goalie, the crease also acts as an important restraining line for offensive players cutting towards the goal. Cutters cannot touch the crease before the ball enters the area.
Goal Crease Strategies for Dominating Between the Pipes
Now that we’ve covered the essential crease rules, let’s get into key strategies for goalies, defenders, and offensive players to leverage the crease area and gain an edge on opponents.
As a goalie, the crease is your anchor and your protection. Here are some tips for dominating shots from within the goal crease:
- Come out towards the top of the crease on shots to cut down the shooter’s angle.
- On quick catch-and-shoot chances, hug the post nearest the shooter.
- Use the goalposts as ball stops by pinning shots into the pipes with your stick or body.
- Don’t overcommit or throw checks outside the crease – stay patient and force the shooter to make the first move.
- Communicate constantly with your defenders on picks, skips, and cutters to prevent crease violations.
The key is being large and imposing inside the crease while letting attackers make mistakes by impatiently reaching or stepping into your protected zone.
For defenders, balancing aggressive denial with discipline around the crease is critical. Here are some tips to master:
- Body up cutters tightly at the top of the crease to force them out of the scoring area.
- Keep your stick in the passing lanes to intercept feeds across the crease.
- Block shots by positioning your body between your goalie and the shooter.
- When double-teaming behind, communicate clearly on who will skip pass and who has crease.
- On picks, maintain inside position and recovery quickly to prevent backdoor cuts.
Playing great crease defense is about smart positioning, communication, and trusting your goalie. Forcing just a split second of hesitation from dodgers and feeders can make all the difference.
For offensive players, the name of the game is using timing, misdirection, and screens to quickly get top-side inside the crease before defenders can react. Key tips include:
- Use picks and two-man games on the wings to get a step for a topside dodge.
- Sell a strong initial dodge then counter backdoor for a quick crease feed.
- Use skip passes from X to open the crease area on the weak side.
- Screen the goalie on interior feeds to make saves tougher.
- Incorporate quick sticks, shot fakes, and rolls to beat defenders before you hit the crease.
The crease area fills up quickly, so the key is misdirection, quick ball movement, and beating your man to get clean looks inside.
Conclusion
Mastering the ins and outs of the lacrosse goal crease can give you a major competitive advantage. Goalies must use their protected zone to intimidate shooters, defenders need to balance aggression with position, and offensive players have to use timing and misdirection to find openings inside. Study the crease rules and integrate these essential strategies into your game to dominate the scoring area.
Positioning as a Lacrosse Goalie in the Crease
As a lacrosse goalie, your positioning in the crease is absolutely critical to your success between the pipes. The crease is the small circular area directly in front of the goal, and it’s your domain as goalie. Understanding the lacrosse goal crease rules and honing your positioning is essential to dominating as a netminder.
Let’s break down the key elements of goalie positioning in the crease. While positioning can vary slightly based on your style of play and the situation, there are some fundamental principles that apply.
Stay Centered
Generally speaking, you want to stay centered in the crease as much as possible. This allows you to move efficiently in all directions to track shots. If you’re hugging one post, you limit your range of motion. Centering yourself gives you the optimal starting position to react to shots from all angles.
Of course, you may shade slightly one way or the other depending on scouting of the opponent’s shooters. But in most situations, keeping your feet centered in the crease is ideal.
Keep Your Feet Active
Even when centered, it’s essential to keep your feet active and your knees bent. Being flat-footed or straight-legged as a goalie is a recipe for getting handcuffed by shots. Keep your knees flexed and feet moving to be poised to explode in any direction.
Work on controlled lateral shuffles to move side to side while staying square to the ball. Jump rope and agility ladder drills can help develop quick footwork.
Limit Crease Dives
Launching your body through the air for highlight-reel crease dive saves may look cool, but should be used sparingly. Relying too much on desperation saves out of position will lead to goals against. Work on measured, controlled movements inside the crease.
That being said, sometimes a crease dive is necessary to rob a shooter. Use your judgment – don’t be afraid to lay out when you need to!
Cut Down the Angle
When the ball is passed to an open shooter, close down the angle aggressively. Step toward the shooter to cut down the net they have to shoot at. Don’t back into the goal – take away space proactively.
Conversely, on a skip pass across the crease, you’ll need to push out wider to take away the far post. Aggressive angles are key.
Challenge Shooters
Don’t allow opposing players space and time to wind up. Close space quickly on shot releases, challenging shooters with your body and stick. This can intimidate players and cause rushed shots.
Timing is critical, however – come out too early and you open holes. Wait until the last second to challenge.
Communicate Constantly
As goalie, you see the entire field. Communicate clearly and constantly with your defense. Alert them to cutters, skip passes, and open shooters. Your voice guides your defense.
Verbal cues combined with hand signals can help defenders know your intentions, especially on clears and fast breaks going the other way.
Have Active Hands
Keep your hands up and active with your stick at all times. This allows you to make quick reacting glove and stick saves. Lazy hands lead to picking the ball out of the net.
Work on different hand positions to take away high and low shots. Keep your hands in front of your body, not down at your sides.
Own Your Rebounds
When you make a save, immediately look to clamp down and control the rebound. Don’t allow second chance opportunities.
Smother any rebounds into your body or steer them deliberately into the corner away from cutters. Call out “My ball!” loudly after saves to own the rebound.
Move Past Mistakes
As a goalie, you will allow goals – don’t dwell on them. Have a short memory and move on to the next play quickly. Don’t let past goals or mistakes impact your confidence or positioning.
Stay focused only on making the next save. You can’t go back in time and stop a shot that already scored.
Adapt Your Style
While mastering proper technique and positioning, don’t be afraid to put your own flair and personality into your game. Comfort and confidence between the pipes is key.
Study the top goalies to learn their styles, then develop your own. There is no one-size-fits all approach – find what works for your physical attributes and skills.
Mastering positioning as a lacrosse goalie is an ongoing process. Drill crease movement and angles regularly to build muscle memory. With practice, the proper positioning will become second nature.
Trust in your abilities between the pipes, communicate with your defense, and keep squared to the shooter. Embrace the pressure-packed role of goalie and your confidence will rise. By commanding the crease, you give your team a chance to win every time you step onto the field.
Making Saves Inside the Lacrosse Goal Crease
As a lacrosse goalie, making those game-saving stops inside the crease is your top priority. Understanding how to move, position your body, and see shots within the tight confines of the goal circle is an art. Mastering the technique of making saves inside the crease is what separates great goalies from average ones.
Let’s break down the key elements of making saves inside the pressure cooker of the goal crease. While goalie style differs, there are fundamental principles for making stops between the pipes.
Stay Square to the Ball
The first rule of making saves inside the crease is to stay square to the shooter. Don’t open up your hips or shoulders unnecessarily, which leaves holes for shooters to exploit. Remain in an athletic stance facing the ball.
Resist overreacting or lunging to shots. Patience and staying square give you the best chance at saves.
See the Ball All the Way In
Keep your eye focused on the ball from the shooter’s stick through contact with your body or stick. Don’t take your eye off it for a second. Seeing it into your stick or body helps control rebounds.
Master peripheral vision as well to see cutters and open players while watching the ball.
Meet the Shot
Don’t allow shots to gain momentum and get too close before reacting. Meet the shot early by moving forward assertively as the player shoots. This allows you to get more of your body behind the ball.
Cut down angles quickly while staying balanced. Don’t retreat deeper into the crease.
Make Yourself Big
Maximize your physical presence in the goal by getting wide and big. Spread your legs and arms fully to take away space. Make the shooter shoot around you.
Drop into the butterfly when necessary to take away low shots with your leg pads.
Use Active Hands
Keep your hands engaged and ready to make saves. Don’t allow lazy hands or motionless arms. Keep hands positioned in front of your body and in the shooter’s field of vision.
Work on quick reactions with your gloves and stick hands to snag rising shots.
Absorb the Shot
When you make save contact, absorb the energy of the shot through your body by “giving” slightly or riding the motion backward. Don’t fight the velocity of the shot.
This helps securely trap the ball and control rebounds better. Think “soft hands” on save impact.
Smother and Control
After initial save contact, quickly clamp down and smother any rebounding ball into your chest protector. Don’t allow the ball to bounce free.
Likewise, on stick saves, use the redirect technique to steer pokes safely into the corner away from cutters.
Own the Low Shots
Don’t be afraid to lay out for low skip shots across the crease. Spread to take away the entire goal mouth.
Work flexibility drills like half-butterflies to increase range on low dives. The extra extension can mean saving a goal.
Have Trust in Your Defense
Resist the urge to over-challenge every shooter. Hold your ground and trust your defenders to contain their men. Patience allows you to remain square and balanced.
Communicate clearly with defenders if you need to close space quicker on a shooter.
Stay Mentally Tough
Shake off goals allowed quickly. Dwelling on past mistakes takes you out of the moment. Focus only on making the next save.
Likewise, don’t get complacent after making great saves. Stay focused for the full 60 minutes.
Making saves as a lacrosse goalie requires technical skill and mental toughness. Mastering angles, positioning your body, and controlling rebounds takes repetition. Stay focused on the fundamentals and you’ll dominate the crease.
Yo, lacrosse fans! You know the most important area on the field – the goal crease. As a goalie, dominating between the pipes is all about understanding those crease rules. Stick with me and we’ll break it down so you can crush it in the crease.
Outlet Passes After a Save in the Crease
When the heat is on and you make a clutch save in the crease, it ain’t over yet. Getting the ball out of the crease quick is key. So what are the rules after making a save? Let’s discuss.
Here’s the sitch – after making a save, you can’t just chuck the ball outta the crease all willy nilly. You get four seconds to pass that sucker out legally. How do you do it? You’ve got options:
- Make a sweet outlet pass to a teammate outside the crease
- Run or roll the ball out over the goal line yourself
- Place the ball on the ground inside the crease and whack it out with your stick
Just don’t take more than four ticks on the game clock. An illegal crease violation will cost you the ball. Those refs are watching!
Now once you’ve made the save, the attacking team tries to swipe at your stick or body check you – they want that turnover! Protect the rock by cradling with two hands and shielding your stick. Absorb those hits with your shoulders and chest if you have to. Do what it takes to pass it out clean, bro.
When Can Attackers Enter the Crease?
Attackers are trying to crash your crease party the moment you make a save. Not so fast, buddy! Entering the crease comes with some rules too.
After a save, attackers can legally step into the crease once the ball fully crosses the goal line. Before that, they gotta respect the crease and stay out. If they jump in too early, it’s a crease violation and you get the ball.
Same goes for loose balls around the crease after shots hit pipes or miss the net. Attackers need to let you play it out before crashing the party.
Goalie Privileges in the Crease
As the goalie, you’ve got some special privileges when hanging out in the crease:
- You can cover up a loose ball with your stick or body for 4 seconds
- You can block shots with your body instead of your stick
- You can check an attacker’s stick when they take a shot in the crease (as long as you only check the stick!)
Take advantage of these perks to shut down attacks from the crease. Just remember you can’t cover up loose balls outside the crease – that’ll earn you a flag.
Crease Diving – Legal or No Way?
Let’s say an attacking player is on a breakaway. You sprint out of your crease to challenge him. He tries to juke around you for the open net finish, but you lunge and make an epic crease dive save! The crowd goes wild.
But was that legal?
Here’s the deal – goalies CAN legally dive or jump out of the crease to make a save. Your feet can leave the crease, you just can’t land on the ground outside it. Make the save then hustle back in the crease.
Attackers can dive or jump to shoot, but they can’t land in the crease unless the ball fully crosses the line first. Charge the shot, force the shooter wide and be ready to deny that goal, bro!
Positioning and Movement in the Crease
Reading the field and controlling your movement in the crease is key for dominating between the pipes.
As a general rule, try to stay centered inside the crease when the ball is behind the net or on the sides. When the ball comes up top, move higher in the crease and prepare to challenge the shot.
Lead with your stick when challenging shooters – take away angles by cutting down daylight. Force dodgers to your weak side and use your stick to direct them outside the crease. Then recover back to the center.
For crease rolls on the weak side, hug the post with your lead foot and get your trailing foot and stick out to make yourself big. Near-side rolls, stay central and be patient – let the shooter commit first before reacting.
Be an athlete in there! React quickly, play on your toes and be an intimidating brick wall that attackers won’t want to challenge.
Saving Shots Inside the Crease
When it’s time to make saves in tight, power position is everything. Square your shoulders to the ball carrier and get big. Anchor your bottom hand out in front and bring your top hand tight to your ear – this protects the stick and your head when you make saves.
For low shots, drop into a deep athletic stance. Make the save with your stick out front, not between your legs. That’ll lead to dangerous rebounds.
On high shots, get your hands high and point that bottom elbow out. Save it with the top third of your stick if you can to control the rebound.
For reaction saves behind your head, snap your wrists and stick to position it in the save area as you turn. Those are sweet when you can pull ’em off!
Crease Communication
Running the defense as the goalie means commanding the crease. You’ve gotta quarterback your D from back there with clear, loud communication.
Bark out slide calls early to direct defenders to the ball. Call out picks and backside cuts so your guys don’t get caught sleeping. And remind them to keep it tight on cutters inside the perimeter – that’s your zone to control.
With crease defenders, coach them up on body position. Tell them to turn in dodgers and drive down the alley, force the shooter wide. Make sure they know when to drop into passing lanes or attack sticks for the double.
Running the show as a vocal goalie takes practice, but it’s crucial. Take charge of that crease and your defenders will play with confidence.
In Summary: Dominate the Crease
There ya have it – want to own the crease as a goalie? Master these key rules and tactics:
- Quick outlet passes under 4 seconds after saves
- Controlled movement and positioning
- Strong crease communication
- Protecting the ball after saves
- Power saves inside the crease
Keep working on your technique and fearlessly challenge every shot. Let your passion and energy pump up your team’s defense. You got this, bro – now get in that crease and put in work!
Listen up lacrosse heads – we’re breaking down the key rules for dominating the goal crease. From outlet passes to working with your defenders, I’ve got you covered. Let’s get into it.
Communicating with Defenders from the Crease
As the goalie, you see everything unfolding from your crease. That means you gotta be the field general, directing the defense with loud, clear communication.
What should you be calling out? Here are some tips for commanding the D from the crease:
- Give early slide calls to send help defenders to the ball
- Remind backside defenders to watch for cutters and react to skips
- Call out picks and screens so teammates don’t get caught sleeping
- Keep the crease area clear by calling out cutters inside the perimeter
For defenders near the crease, coach them up on positioning. Remind them to turn in dodgers, force shooters wide, and drop to take away passes.
You also gotta be pumped up. Bring the energy with loud, urgent calls. Use names and make eye contact. Your voice sets the tone for the defense, so project with confidence.
Slide Calls
When the ball is being dodged up top or on the wings, scan the field and make the slide call early. Yell “Slide left!” or “Slide right!” and point so defenders know where to move.
If your defender gets beat on a dodge, call for immediate help. Shout the adjacent defender’s name or number and wave them over with urgency. They need to know to leave their man and get to the ball, fast.
Crease Calls
Attackers love to sneak around the crease looking for feeds inside. As the goalie, you’ve gotta protect the house by calling out crease cutters.
If you spy a cutter slashing inside the perimeter towards the crease, let your teammates know. Yell “Crease, crease!” and point them out. Keep reminding your defenders to stay tight in that area.
Backside Communication
You can also see gaps opening up on the backside as the defense shifts. Alert your defenders to reacted to skips, cutters and loose guys by calling out the opposite side of the field.
For example, yell “John, watch your back!” if the defender named John needs to turn and look for a cutter behind him as the slide goes.
Dominating from the crease is all about proactive communication. Quarterback the defense and take command of the field.
Quick Outlet Passes After Saves
Alright, you’ve made a clutch save in the crease – now it’s go time. You’ve got just four seconds to outlet the ball legally.
Here are some tips for quick outlet passes from the crease:
- Scan upfield as you make the save and spot your outlet
- Make a crisp chest or overhand pass right as you gain control
- Fake the outlet one way then pass the other to throw off defenders
- Shield your stick and absorb contact as you pass
Running the clear starts with nailing that first outlet pass. Look off defenders and hit your midfielder or attackman in stride before the defense can react.
Emergency Crease Outlets
Uh oh, the defense is swarming and no one’s open! You can still legally outlet the ball from the crease in a few ways:
- Run or roll the ball over the goal line and let it exit the crease
- Place the ball down inside the crease and rake it out with your stick
- Fake the pass and carry it out yourself if you see space
Just get it out within four seconds! Don’t let the defense trap you or draw a flag.
Saving Shots Inside the Crease
Alright goalies, time to make those clutch saves in tight. Here are some tips for controlling shots in the crease:
- Square up and anchor your bottom hand out front to take away space
- Drop into an athletic stance on low shots to block the bottom corners
- Get your top hand tight to your ear and point that bottom elbow out on high shots
- React quickly and snap your wrists on behind-the-head saves
Power position is everything. Take away angles and be the intimidating brick wall that attackers hate challenging. Own that crease!
Controlling Rebounds
You’ve made the first stop – don’t give up a rebound goal! Control the rebound by:
- Saving high shots with the top third of your stick to direct it upward
- Keeping your stick firm and out front to absorb force
- Blocker punches or stick rakes to swiftly clear loose balls
Secure the ball after saves and cover up rebounds inside the crease if you need to. Don’t let chaos ensue!
Crease Positioning and Movement
Owning the crease as a goalie also requires controlling your positioning and movement.
Here are some key tips:
- Stay centered when the ball is behind the cage or on the wings
- Move higher in the crease to challenge top shots head-on
- Cut down angles by leading with your stick on shooters
- Direct dodgers outside the crease and recover back to the middle
- Play post rolls tight on your post-side foot and stay patient
Be active and athletic – move with purpose. Beat shooters to their spots and be a menace attackers try to avoid.
Crease Diving
Game on the line, the shooter winds up on a breakaway. You sprint out and launch your body horizontally, stretching out your stick for the epic crease dive save! Crowd flips out…
But was that legal, bro?
Good news – goalies can legally dive out of the crease to make saves. Your feet can come off the ground, just don’t land outside the crease. Get horizontal and make the play, then hustle back in.
Attackers however can’t land or touch the ground in the crease on shots until the ball fully crosses the line. Use your explosiveness and athleticism to deny them!
In Summary: Own the Crease
There you have it – want to dominate the crease? Master these goalie techniques:
- Loud crease communication and leadership
- Quick outlet passes under 4 seconds
- Controlling rebounds off saves
- Strong positioning and movement
- Crease dives done legally
Keep grinding out there. With passion and hard work, you’ll own the crease and be a difference maker on defense!
Here is a 1000+ word article on lacrosse goal crease rules and how coaches utilize the crease:
Lacrosse players! Want to dominate the critical goal crease area? Let’s break down the key rules and coaching strategies for owning the most crucial space on the field.
How Coaches Utilize the Lacrosse Goal Crease
The crease area is a focal point for lacrosse coaches when game planning. Here are some ways coaches scheme to take advantage of the crease on offense and defense:
Offensive Crease Schemes
On offense, coaches draw up plays to exploit the crease area in various ways:
- Pick plays and two-man games to create crease diving and backdoor chances
- Overloads with skip passes to quickly move the ball inside
- Inverted sets and X cuts through the middle to attack the crease
- Isolation drives to draw slides and open up backside crease feeds
Coaches want to get the ball in tight for high percentage shots. The offense keeps working for inside looks all game long.
Defensive Crease Strategies
On defense, coaching strategy focuses on protecting the crease and limiting inside chances:
- Overloading the crease area with extra defenders like short sticks and LSMs
- Funneling dodgers and shooters outside the crease
- Quick double teams and checks on crease roll backs to force turnovers
- Denying cutters with easy access into the interior
Packing in the crease and layering the defense takes away those high percentage shots. Force the offense far out of the crease.
Goalie Outlet Passes from the Crease
Goalies, those outlet passes after saves set the tone for your clear. Here are some tips for quick crease outlets:
- Scan upfield as you make the save to spot your outlet man
- Make crisp, accurate passes right as you gain control
- Fake out defenders by looking off your pass
- Absorb contact and shield your stick as you pass
Look to hit your midfielders and attackmen in stride before the ride converges. Catch the defense off guard and get upfield fast.
Emergency Crease Exits
Uh oh, no one’s open and the defense is swarming! You can still outlet legally from the crease:
- Run or roll the ball over the end line
- Place the ball down and rake it out with your stick
- Fake the pass and carry it out yourself
Improvise and do what it takes, just don’t let them trap you in there! Get it out within 4 seconds.
Saving Shots Inside the Crease
Alright goalies, time to make those reaction saves in tight:
- Square up and cut down angles with your positioning
- Anchor your bottom hand out front to take away space
- Drop into an athletic stance on low shots
- Get top hand tight to ear on high shots and point elbow out
- Snap wrists and react quickly on behind-the-head saves
Protect the goal with power position. Own the crease and be the intimidating brick wall that attackers hate challenging!
Controlling Rebounds
You’ve made the first stop – now control that rebound:
- Save high shots with the top of your stick to direct rebound upward
- Keep your stick firm out front to absorb force
- Use your blocker hand or stick checks to rake loose balls away
Secure the ball after saves and cover up rebounds inside the crease when needed. Don’t allow chaos!
Crease Positioning and Movement
Mastering crease positioning and movement is also key for goalies. Here are some tips:
- Stay centered when ball is behind or on the wings
- Move higher in crease to cut down top angle shots
- Lead with your stick to take away shooting lanes
- Direct dodgers outside and recover back to middle
- Play post rolls tight to your lead foot’s post
Be active and take away angles. Get to your spots before the shooters do – own that crease!
Crease Dives
Game on the line and the shooter winds up on a breakaway…you sprint out and launch horizontally for the epic crease dive save! Crowd erupts…but was it legal?
Good news – goalies can dive out of the crease as long as you don’t land outside of it. Get horizontal and make the play!
But attackers cannot land or touch ground in the crease until after the shot crosses the line. Use your explosiveness to deny them!
In Summary: Dominate the Crease
There you have it – want to dominate the crease? Master these keys:
- Quick outlet passes under 4 seconds
- Controlling rebounds off saves
- Strong crease positioning and movement
- Legal crease dive saves
- Winning the ground ball battles
Keep grinding out there. With passion and hard work, you’ll own the crease and be a difference maker for your team!
Let’s dig into the key lacrosse crease rules and techniques you need to dominate between the pipes as a goalie!
Tips for Dominating Between the Pipes
Want to own the crease and give your team an edge in cage? Follow these essential goalie tips:
Communication
Run the defense with loud, urgent commands from the crease. Bark out slide calls early, direct traffic, and remind your D about cutters. Project confidence and pump up the energy.
Outlet Passing
Master the quick outlet after saves. Scan the field as the shot comes, then hit your runners in stride. Shield the ball from checks and absorb contact.
Save Technique
Dial in your save mechanics. Square up, get wide and take away space. Lead with your stick, get your hands high, and drop into an athletic stance.
Rebound Control
Secure the ball after saves and smother rebounds inside the crease when needed. Don’t allow chaos.
Crease Movement
Own your positioning and movement in the crease. Beat shooters to their spots, cut down angles, and recover back to the center.
Crease Dives
Make epic saves by launching horizontally to deny shooters. Just land back in the crease and don’t touch outside it.
Keep grinding on these fundamentals at practice. Master the crease and you’ll gain a major edge in the cage!
Quick Outlet Passes from the Crease
Nailing those quick outlet passes after saves jumpstarts your clear. Here are some tips:
- Scan the field as you make the save to spot your outlet
- Pass crisply right as you gain control
- Look defenders off by faking the pass
- Shield your stick from checks as you pass
Hit your midfielders in stride before the ride converges. Catch the D off guard.
Emergency Crease Exits
If no one’s open, you can still outlet legally from the crease:
- Run or roll the ball over the end line
- Place the ball down and rake it out with your stick
- Fake the pass and carry it out yourself
Do what it takes, just get the ball out within 4 seconds and don’t get trapped!
Controlling Rebounds in the Crease
You’ve made the first save – now finish the job by controlling the rebound! Here are some tips:
- Save high shots with the top of your stick to direct rebound upward
- Keep your stick firm out front to absorb force
- Use your blocker or stick to rake loose balls away quickly
Secure the ball after saves and smother any rebounds inside the crease. Don’t allow second chances!
Rebound Angles
Aim your rebounds to the sidelines or corners when possible. Avoid kicking saves right back to the shooter or dishing rebounds into the middle where attackers are waiting.
Control where that ball goes after saves and force the offense to restart their attack.
Owning Your Crease Positioning
Mastering crease positioning is crucial for goalies. Here are some key tips:
- Stay centered when ball is behind the cage or on the wings
- Challenge top shots by moving higher in the crease
- Lead with your stick to cut down shooting angles
- Direct dodgers outside the crease then recover to middle
- Play tight post rolls on your lead foot’s side
Be active and athletic in the crease. Beat shooters to their desired spots and shut off high percentage areas.
Crease Dives
On breakaway attempts, launch your body horizontally to deny shooters. Just make sure to land back inside the crease – don’t touch ground outside it or draw a penalty.
Use your explosiveness and protect the cage! Get superman horizontal if you have to.
In Summary: Own the Crease
Want to dominate between the pipes? Master these goalie keys:
- Loud, commanding crease communication
- Quick stick saves and outlet passes
- Controlling rebounds off saves
- Owning your positioning and movement
- Legal yet aggressive crease dive saves
Keep grinding out there. With hard work and passion, you’ll own the crease and be a difference maker in the cage!
