Backyard Lacrosse Goals: Choose Durable Weather-Resistant Metal, Aluminum or Steel
Hey lacrosse fans! If you’re looking to step up your shooting and passing game, having the right lacrosse goal is crucial. As someone who has spent years playing lacrosse in backyards, local parks, and rec leagues, I’ve tried all kinds of goals and nets. From cheap portable versions to heavy-duty metal goals, I’ve learned what really works best for improving your skills or just having fun with friends.
If you plan to leave a goal outside year-round, definitely go for one made of strong, rust-resistant materials. Aluminum or powder-coated steel frames can withstand sun, rain, and snow. I had a cheap metal goal from a big box store start rusting after one season – not ideal! Investing a few extra bucks in weather-resistant construction will give you years more use.
Portability is also key for backyard goals. My brother has a massive steel goal bolted permanently onto a concrete pad. No doubt it’s sturdy, but it takes up a ton of space and prevents other yard games. I prefer a folding aluminum goal with wheels that I can easily move around. Then the lawn is open for football, soccer, you name it! The primed folding goals are fantastic for storage too – they collapse down for compact off-season storage.
Try This: Use Angle Iron or Stakes for More Stability
Anchoring your backyard goal properly makes a huge difference in game play. I’ve found the best way is using angle iron brackets or heavy-duty stakes. It prevents the goals from tipping and sliding during intense shooting practice. PVC pipe ground sleeves work OK too, but not quite as sturdy in my experience. Ask any goalie – a rock-solid net is crucial for making saves without fear of crashing poles!
Netting Options: What’s Best for Shooting, Passing, Goalies?
The net is just as important as the frame! For shooting and passing practice, I recommend a medium weight polyester net. You want some flex and “give” to absorb shots, while still retaining shape. Super lightweight nets will sag too much. For goalies, look for high density PE or thicker knotless nets designed specifically for intense goalie training. They’ll handle blistering shots from close range.
Replacement nets are inexpensive and breath new life into old goals. I replace my practice net each season – amazing difference for just $20-30. Pro tip: buy spare bungee cords too, they wear out over time. Keep a few on hand for quick repairs.
Take Your Game on the Road
In-season practices are mostly on school or team fields. But shooting on a regulation goal at home in the off-season is huge. The muscle memory really improves accuracy. Portable folding goals are great for taking your game on the road. I have a 6’x6′ popup goal that fits easily in my car for trips. Any open field or park nearby becomes a practice zone!
Friends and I will set up two goals and run passing, shooting, defensive drills for hours. Dialing in crosses, pinpoint outlet passes, quick stick catches – it all translates onto the field. Not finding open space at home for a full goal? Get a rebounder net or purchase a pair of the mini goals instead.
Consider Kids and Beginners
Safety first when picking backyard goals for young or new players. Start with a small 3’x3′ goal with compressed netting that absorbs off-target shots. Lower the poles or tilt the goal forward so it catches wild throws rather than forcing hard saves. Move up to a regulation goal with full netting as skills improve. Padding the poles eliminates painful mis-hits too.
Pro tip: Hang a backstop netting behind the goal to trap missed shots and keep the action contained. Way better than chasing stray balls down the block!
Wrapping Up
Whether you’re a competitive player mastering drives and fakes, or just having a casual catch with family, the right lacrosse goal makes all the difference. Prioritize weather-resistant metal frames and solid construction for durability. Look for portability through folding designs or wheels if space is limited. And don’t neglect the netting – choose materials suited for your skill level. Invest in a quality backyard goal and take your practice shots to the next level!
Let me know if you have any other tips for setting up awesome home lacrosse goals. I’m always looking to improve my backyard shooting space and practice routine. What’s your go-to gear for getting game-ready? Ask any questions below, I’m happy to share what I’ve learned. Now grab a stick and let’s work on those snipes!
Portable Lacrosse Nets: Foldable Goals For Easy Setup & Storage
What’s up lacrosse lovers! Looking for goals that can move with you, whether in the backyard or on the road? Portable lacrosse nets are a game-changer for practice anywhere, anytime. As a lacrosse coach trying to maximize training time, I’m always seeking out the most versatile, durable folding goals to use.
Having lightweight, collapsible goals makes such a difference for popping up rapid-fire shooting and passing drills. My team loves when I bust out the foldable goals at local parks for intense workout sessions. And the easy breakdown after practice? Lifesaver for this busy coach! Here are my top tips for portable lacrosse nets that deliver maximum portability.
Collapsible Frames – Compact Storage Matters
For true portability, look for lacrosse goal frames that collapse down into a compact size. I prefer the folding aluminum frame models that pop open and fold flat in seconds when you need to relocate. Sturdy steel frames work too, though a bit heavier to haul. The key is easy breakdown for storage or transport – no need for tools or lengthy disassembly. Just grab and go!
Pro Tip: For big road trips, look for goals with carrying bags or cases. Keep all the hardware protected and contained. The last thing you want is lost poles and bungee cords!
Wheels and Weight – Move Goals Anywhere
Even collapsed goals can get cumbersome to lug around. My MVP portable goals have built-in wheel sets on one side. Simply tilt back and roll – makes moving them a breeze! For larger regulation-size folding goals, definitely prioritize wheels or get a custom cart. You’ll thank yourself after maneuvering heavy goals across fields, in and out of gyms, etc. all season long.
If going ultralight, there are a few “pop-up” style goals with no frames. The netting attaches right to the poles for instant portability. Just know these really require staking down well and won’t withstand high-velocity shots. But for casual backyard games? Can’t beat the easy mobility!
Net Features – Flexible Yet Durable
The netting on portable goals needs that ideal blend of flexible and sturdy. Look for medium weight polyester netting that won’t sag, but has enough give to absorb shots. Since portable goals move frequently, I reinforce high-wear points like pole attachments with double stitching or tape. Fraying net edges are no fun!
Carrying spare bungees and net repair kits is clutch for portable goal maintenance. On-the-go fixes keep practice rolling anytime issues pop up. Share the gear bag role on the team – when goals need a quick patch job, we’re covered.
Added Features – From Rebounders to Targets
Beyond basic portability, I love goals with built-in extras that maximize training. Look for options like rebounding bungee loops on the inner net to sharpen reaction time. Or removable target patches to work on shot placement. One of my portable goals came with a carrying/shooting mat – talk about versatile!
For goalies, find portable goals with backstop rebounders or angled side panels. They’ll help repel wide shots to keep action contained in tight spots. Rotating pole mounts allow adjusting rebound angles too. Get creative with drills!
Wrap Up
At the end of the day, portable lacrosse goals are about flexibility. Whether you need rapid setup for tournaments, packable goals for travel teams, or movable backyard practice nets, focus on durability, ease of transport, and useful extras like rebounders, wheels, or storage cases. The right portable lacrosse goal boosts your training options big time.
Let me know if you have go-to portable goals or other mobility tips! I’m always researching the latest innovations for our program. Portability is a must to help my athletes practice their hearts out wherever we may be. What features do YOU look for in a folding lacrosse goal? Share your favorites for speedy, stable goals that move with you!
Lacrosse Rebounders: Improve Hand-Eye Coordination With Rebounding Nets
Lacrosse fans, what’s good! Looking to tighten up your catching and reaction time solo? Lacrosse rebounder nets are the perfect practice tool. As a lacrosse player since elementary school, I’ve spent countless hours sharpening my hands with rebounders. Their angled net design sends unpredictable ball bounce backs to test reflexes and control. Let’s explore the many rebounder options to step up your hand-eye coordination!
Wall Rebounders – Classic & Compact
The OG rebounder is the classic wall mount style. Just hang a slanted net on any solid surface, grab your stick, and react to ball rebounds. I keep one on my backyard fence and it’s ideal for quick solo sessions. The compact size and simple setup means easy use anywhere too – attach to garages, backstops, even portable goals.
Look for full rebounding surface designs rather than half-nets. You’ll get more erratic bounces to mimic real passes. Durable nylon mesh stands up well to wall impacts too.
Freestanding Rebounders – 360 Degree Action
Though wall mounts work great, freestanding rebounders really level up your practice. With angled panels surrounding you, rebounds come from all directions to fully test reflexes. I use a 360 degree rebounder net in my driveway that has adjustable bungee tension and swivel mounts. The crazy bounces keeps me laser focused!
Freestanding rebounders are awesome for goalie training too. Take shots then react to unpredictable saves bouncing right back at you! Look for rebounder frames allowing different bungee angles to mix up the rebound pattern.
Incorporate Movement Drills
To combine hand-eye work with footwork, set up cones or markers around your rebounder. After each rebound catch, sprint to the next cone before throwing again. Or do side-to-side shuffles and quick pivots to snag off-angle bounces. Mimicking game movements is crucial – I see my rebounding and catch technique get 10x better!
For goalies, do walk the arc or X drills, reacting to ricocheting saves. Constantly repositioning prior to rebounds improves real game agility big time. Ask a teammate to randomly pass while you train too – the mix of human passes and net rebounds elevates reflex intensity!
Choose Your Rebounder Features
Beyond bounce back nets, many rebounders offer handy bonus features:
- Storage bags – Easy portability
- Target patches – Aim for sections of the net
- Wheels – Increase mobility
- Shooting mats – Multipurpose practice
- Tool-less assembly – Quick set up anywhere
I love getting the most out of my training gear, so versatile rebounders that improve shooting, passing, footwork etc. are invaluable. Shop around for the bonus features matching your skill needs and practice style!
DIY Rebounders
Don’t want to buy a pre-made rebounder? Build your own on the cheap!
Simply get a large piece of rebounding net material, some bungee cords, and PVC pipe. Attach the net at angles along the frame in a square or octagon shape. Use strong cord for high tension bounces. Get creative with materials – I’ve even seen cool wooden rebounders!
Wrap Up
Improving your lacrosse reflexes and reaction time requires focused practice. Rebounder nets provide the ultimate solo training tool with challenging multi-angle ball bounces. Start with a basic wall-mounted net for affordability and ease of use. To take it up a notch, grab a 360 degree freestanding rebounder for complete catching development.
Incorporate footwork and movement patterns along with rebound training to maximize results. And look for bonus features like portability or shooting mats to expand your practice options. Take advantage of unpredictable rebounders and watch your hand-eye coordination reach new levels!
Let me know about your favorite rebounder drills or training tips. I’m always looking to add new agility and reaction drills into my practice routine. How have rebounders improved YOUR lacrosse game? Share your top hand-eye training ideas below!
