How can you improve your lacrosse defense. What are the key elements of effective defensive play. Which drills will enhance your footwork, positioning, and communication skills. How can you master stick checks and poke checks. What role does teamwork play in defensive success.

Mastering Footwork and Positioning: The Foundation of Solid Defense

In lacrosse, a strong defense begins with exceptional footwork and positioning. These fundamental skills allow defenders to stay in front of attackers, maintain leverage, and force turnovers. Let’s explore some essential drills to enhance these crucial aspects of defensive play.

Mirror Drills: Sharpening Reactive Movement

Mirror drills are an excellent way to improve your reactive footwork. How do you perform a mirror drill? Face a teammate and mimic their every movement while maintaining a proper defensive stance. This exercise hones your ability to quickly respond to an attacker’s movements, keeping you one step ahead in real game situations.

Box Drills: Enhancing Lateral Speed and Agility

Box drills are designed to boost your lateral quickness and overall agility. To set up this drill, arrange four cones in a square formation. Practice shuffling side to side around the box, keeping your eyes up and focusing on maintaining speed and balance. This drill will improve your ability to cover ground quickly and efficiently during defensive plays.

Coverage Drills: Perfecting Defensive Positioning

Coverage drills help you master the art of maintaining proper defensive positioning. Have a teammate simulate an offensive player dodging towards you. Your task is to keep your lead foot forward, knees bent, and stick up while shuffling to stay in front of the attacker. This drill reinforces the importance of keeping your hips open and ready to react to any offensive move.

Hips and Hands Drills: Coordinating Body Movements

Hips and hands drills focus on the coordination between your body and stick movements. Practice turning your hips and sliding your hands in the direction you want to move. This drill emphasizes keeping your feet active and your stick positioned to intercept passes, enhancing your overall defensive presence on the field.

Communication: The Backbone of Team Defense

Effective communication is the glue that holds a strong defense together. It ensures that all defenders are on the same page, working as a cohesive unit to shut down the opposition’s offense. Let’s examine some drills that can improve your team’s defensive communication.

Call Out Drills: Enhancing Situational Awareness

Call out drills are designed to keep all defenders alert and aware of the evolving play. During practice, designate specific defenders to verbally announce dodges, picks, cuts, and other offensive movements as they occur. This drill sharpens your ability to read the game and communicate threats to your teammates effectively.

Switching Drills: Mastering Defensive Transitions

Switching drills focus on the crucial skill of swapping defensive assignments during live play. As defenders exchange matchups, they must clearly communicate these switches through both verbal calls and eye contact. This drill improves your team’s ability to adapt to changing offensive strategies and maintain defensive integrity.

Sliding Drills: Coordinating Help Defense

Sliding drills are essential for perfecting the art of help defense. When sliding to assist a teammate, practice loudly calling out “I’ve got ball!” This clear communication allows your teammate to quickly recover and pick up your previous assignment, maintaining defensive coverage across the field.

Advanced Stick Checks: Turning Defense into Offense

Mastering various stick checks can transform your defense from passive to proactive, creating turnover opportunities and initiating fast breaks. Let’s explore some drills to refine your checking techniques.

Poke Check Precision

Poke checks are a fundamental defensive skill in lacrosse. To practice, set up both static and dynamic drills where you execute targeted one-handed and two-handed poke checks on a teammate’s stick. Focus on aiming for the lower third of the stick head for maximum effectiveness. This drill will improve your accuracy and timing when attempting to dislodge the ball from an opponent’s possession.

Lift Check Timing

Lift checks require impeccable timing to be successful. Practice this technique by having a teammate cradle the ball while you attempt to flick your stick underneath, popping the ball free. Pay attention to the timing differences between overhand and underhand cradles. Remember, lift checks on underhand cradles typically require earlier execution for optimal results.

Strip Check Technique

Strip checks can be highly effective when executed properly. Set up drills where you approach a ball carrier from various angles, focusing on wrapping your stick around theirs and pulling down to force a turnover. Practice this technique at different speeds and angles to simulate game-like conditions.

Defensive Teamwork: Strategies for Cohesive Play

While individual skills are crucial, lacrosse defense ultimately thrives on teamwork. Let’s explore some strategies and drills to enhance your team’s collective defensive efforts.

Zone Defense Drills

Zone defense requires precise coordination and communication. Set up drills that simulate offensive movements against your zone, focusing on proper positioning, timely rotations, and effective communication between defenders. Practice identifying and closing passing lanes while maintaining overall defensive structure.

Man-to-Man Defense Transitions

Smooth transitions between man-to-man and help defense are crucial for shutting down offensive threats. Design drills that require defenders to quickly switch between covering their assigned player and sliding to help teammates. Emphasize clear communication during these transitions to avoid confusion and defensive breakdowns.

Mental Preparedness: The Psychological Edge in Defense

Physical skills are only part of the equation in lacrosse defense. Mental preparedness and focus play a significant role in defensive success. Let’s explore some techniques to sharpen your mental game.

Visualization Exercises

Visualization can be a powerful tool for improving defensive performance. Encourage defenders to regularly visualize themselves successfully executing defensive techniques, making key stops, and communicating effectively with teammates. This mental practice can translate into improved on-field performance and confidence.

Quick Decision-Making Drills

Defense often requires split-second decision-making. Design drills that force defenders to quickly assess offensive formations and make rapid decisions about positioning, sliding, or checking. These exercises will improve your ability to read and react to evolving play in real-game situations.

Conditioning for Defensive Excellence

Top-notch defensive play requires exceptional physical conditioning. Let’s examine some conditioning drills tailored specifically for lacrosse defenders.

Defensive Shuttle Runs

Set up a series of cones in a line, spaced about 5 yards apart. Practice shuffling between cones, maintaining a low defensive stance throughout. This drill improves your lateral quickness and endurance, crucial for staying with attackers throughout a game.

Recovery Sprints

Simulate defensive recovery situations by starting face-down on the ground, then explosively sprinting to a designated point on the field. This drill enhances your ability to quickly recover and get back into defensive position after a ground ball or missed check.

Film Study: Analyzing and Improving Defensive Techniques

Incorporating film study into your defensive training regimen can provide valuable insights and accelerate improvement. Let’s explore how to effectively use video analysis to enhance your defensive skills.

Self-Analysis Sessions

Regularly review game footage of your own defensive plays. Pay close attention to your footwork, positioning, and decision-making. Identify areas where you excel and aspects that need improvement. This self-reflection can help you tailor your practice sessions to address specific weaknesses in your defensive game.

Pro Player Analysis

Study film of professional lacrosse defenders known for their exceptional skills. Observe their techniques, positioning, and decision-making in various game situations. Try to incorporate elements of their play into your own defensive repertoire, adapting their strategies to suit your individual strengths and your team’s defensive system.

By diligently practicing these drills and incorporating these strategies into your defensive training, you’ll develop a well-rounded skill set that will make you a formidable defender on the lacrosse field. Remember, consistent practice and a commitment to improvement are key to mastering these essential defensive techniques.

Looking to sharpen your defensive skills in lacrosse this season? Dialing in your footwork and positioning is crucial for playing lockdown defense. Here are some footwork and positioning drills to try:

Footwork and Positioning Drills

As a defender, your feet are your first line of defense. Quick feet allow you to stay in front of dodgers, while proper positioning gives you the leverage to force turnovers. Some drills to improve footwork and positioning:

• Mirror Drills – Face a teammate and mirror their every movement, staying in an athletic defensive stance. React as they cut left/right, walk backwards, etc.
• Box Drills – Set up four cones in a box shape. Shuffle side to side around the box, keeping your eyes up and working on lateral speed.
• Coverage Drills – Have a teammate dodge at you as you maintain proper defensive positioning (lead foot forward, knees bent, stick up). Focus on keeping your hips open and shuffling your feet to stay in front.
• Hips and Hands Drills – Focus on turning your hips and sliding your hands in the direction you want to move. Keep your feet active and your stick in passing lanes.

Repetition of these simple footwork and positioning drills will get your feet faster and make moving to shut down dodges second nature. Master the basics first before moving on to more advanced defensive techniques.

Communication is Key

Defense is a team effort, and constant communication with your defensive teammates is vital. Here are some effective communication drills:

• Call Out Drills – Designate defenders to call out dodges, picks, cuts, etc. as they happen live during practice. Keeps everyone alert.
• Switching Drills – Defenders swap assignments during live play and must communicate those switches clearly through calls and eye contact.
• Sliding Drills – As you slide to help a teammate, loudly call out “I’ve got ball!” so your teammate can recover his man.

Sharpening communication makes your whole defense better. Confidently direct teammates and call out threats to shut down the opposition’s offense.

With focused drilling on footwork, positioning, and communication, your individual and team defense will reach new heights. Master the fundamentals first before moving on to more complex defensive techniques in lacrosse.

Defense in lacrosse depends on constant communication between teammates. Here are some effective communication drills to ensure you’re all on the same page:

Communication Drills

Playing lockdown team defense requires being in sync with your defensive teammates. You all need to see the field the same way and react as a cohesive unit. Some great communication drills include:

• Call-Out Drills – Have defenders verbally call out picks, cuts, dodges, etc. as they happen in real-time during practice. Keeps everyone focused and aware.
• Switching Drills – Defenders swap matchups during live play, requiring clear communication through calls and eye contact to make smooth switches.
• Sliding Drills – As you slide over to help a teammate on defense, loudly call “I’ve got ball!” so your teammate can recover his man.
• Non-Verbal Cues – Use hand signals, like close-fist for “I’ve got ball” and open palm for “Pick up your man.” Develop signals your unit understands.

Active communication builds trust between defenders. You’ll confidently direct teammates to shut down threats, knowing they’ll speak up if you need help. Here are some communication tips:

• Make eye contact when switching assignments or sliding over.
• Use names whenever possible – “John, you take ball, I’ll pick up #22.”
• Project your voice to be heard over crowd noise.
• Be concise – “Slide left!” rather than long explanations.

On-field communication is often overlooked but critical for defensive success in lacrosse. Hold defenders accountable for calling out threats in drills. Establish clear signals and calls. Build trust and confidence through repetition – your defense will be a coordinated, cohesive unit.

With disciplined drilling on communication, your entire defense raises its game. Master speaking up on defense before moving on to more complex technical skills.

Executing quick, effective stick checks is an essential skill for generating turnovers on defense in lacrosse. Here are some key drills for perfecting your poking, lifting, and stripping technique:

Stick Checks and Poke Checks

As a defender, actively checking the ball carrier’s stick creates opportunities to dislodge the ball for a turnover. Drill stick checks like:

• Poke Checks – In a static position or on the move, execute targeted one-handed and two-handed poke checks on a teammate’s stick. Aim for the lower third of the stick head.
• Lift Checks – Time the lift check as your teammate cradles, flicking underneath to pop the ball free. Lift earlier on underhand cradles.
• Strip Checks – Swing your stick directly at your teammate’s hands to knock the stick free. Keep your hands tight on your own stick to retain control.
• Stick Protection – Now have your teammate try to check your stick while you focus on safely securing passes and maintaining possession after contact.

Incorporate these stick check drills into live dodging and passing drills. Work at game speed and intensity to be prepared for game checks. Reaction time and proper technique equals turnovers.

Here are some key checking pointers:

• Time checks perfectly as sticks and arms move.
• Aim low on the head and hands.
• Don’t reach – throw checks from an athletic, balanced position.
• Check through the stick, don’t just slap at it.

With an aggressive and controlled checking approach, you’ll become a takeaway machine on defense. Force the opposition into mistakes through perfectly timed and placed stick checks.

Body Positioning and Physical Defense

As any lacrosse player knows, strong defense is crucial to success on the field. While offensive skills like cradling, shooting, and passing tend to get all the glory, it’s solid defense that wins championships. Without the ability to stop opponents from advancing downfield and scoring, your team won’t stand a chance no matter how many goals your offense puts up.

One of the most important defensive skills in lacrosse is body positioning. How you hold your body relative to your opponent can make all the difference in whether you stop them or get blown by. Proper footwork, stick placement, and balance are key. Mastering these fundamentals will allow you to shut down drives and passes, control the movement of dodgers, and force turnovers through checks.

Here are 15 must-know drills to improve body positioning and physical defense in lacrosse:

• Mirror Drills – Face a teammate and mirror their every movement, staying in an athletic defensive stance. React as they dodge in different directions. Focus on footwork and body control.
• Box Drills – Have defenders shuffle side to side in a tight box shape, keeping their feet active and stick always up. Switch direction on coach’s command. Maintain athletic ready position.
• Angle Drills – Position yourself at an angle to the dodger and force them one way, away from the middle. Work on guiding with your stick, not reaching.
• Bump and Run – Throw appropriate checks to disrupt dodgers’ balance and rhythm. Stay attached hip-to-hip as you direct movement.
• Denial Drills – Work on preventing passes to a specific player by positioning your body between them and the ball. React quickly on catches.
• Wall Ball – Use a wall to practice quick sticks, footwork, and body control. Move to absorb passes cleanly. React to errant throws.
• Boxing Out – Position yourself between opponent and the goal on shots. Make contact and hold ground without fouling. Grab rebounds.
• Bull in the Ring – One defender takes on dodger after dodger as they enter the circle. Focus on staying centered and balanced.
• Ground Balls – Scoop up ground balls while being harassed by defenders. Protect stick and focus on body position.
• Pick and Rolls – Defend against offensive picks and roll with cutters to maintain good positioning and balance.
• Situational Drills – Practice defending odd-man situations like fast breaks, extra men, and late double teams.
• Hip Checks – Execute legal hip checks that knock opponents off path. Stay controlled and balanced.
• Foot Fire – Jump rope and run agility ladder focusing on quick, active footwork and lateral motion.
• Partner Pick Ups – Take turns picking up ground balls while a partner lightly checks your stick and body.
• PCAs – 1-on-1 practice clearing and defending. Focus on angle, body position, footwork and physicality.
• Film Review – Study game and practice film to evaluate and improve technique and positioning.

Mastering these lacrosse defensive drills will ingrain proper technique and body control. You’ll improve your footwork, balance, positioning, stick skills, physicality and conditioning. Defense is all about body positioning and managing space. Take control of your body and take away your opponent’s space, and you’ll be a shutdown defender in no time.

Strong defense leads to more possessions, transition chances, and wins. Don’t neglect this crucial facet of the game. Spend time every practice sharpening your technique with positioning and physicality drills. Defense really does win championships in lacrosse. Master these drills and bring home that title!

Goalie Clear Drills

A lacrosse goalie’s job doesn’t end after making a save. Completing the play requires quickly transitioning into a clear out of the defensive zone. Fast, accurate outlet passes jumpstart the transition game, leading to more offensive possessions and scoring chances.

Goalie clears take coordinated footwork, active stickwork, strong throwing technique and field awareness. Mastering the fundamentals will allow you to consistently hit teammates in stride for uncontested catches. Your clears will catalyze fast breaks and unsettle the defense.

Here are 15 must-know lacrosse goalie clear drills to sharpen your skills:

• Quick Stick – Short, repetitive stickwork using different passing techniques to build muscle memory.
• Step and Throw – Take an escape step and clear with accurate form as you move laterally.
• Outlet Lines – Hit targets directly upfield or on the wings working on accuracy under pressure.
• Over-the-Shoulder – Twist and clear balls directly behind you without looking. Develop feel.
• Run and Gun – Sprint upfield and hit on-the-move targets replicating fast break situations.
• Dodger Mazes – Clear around oncoming defenders using fakes and dodges to open throwing lanes.
• Clear Contests – Compete 1-on-1 to clear balls upfield quickly and accurately before being checked.
• Clear Chases – Race to outlet balls on the perimeter before being beat by riding attackers.
• Clear Combos – Link accurate lateral and upfield passes together in continuous sequences.
• redirect Passes – Maneuver sticks and body position to redirect errant throws into clean outlets.
• Behind-the-Back – Develop confidence clearing balls with unorthodox behind-the-back technique.
• Deflected Clears – Maintain composure and clear saves popping straight up or off your body.
• Situational Clears – Practice clearing from odd situations like split dodges, two-man games and wings.
• Clear Communication – Verbalize outlet options and command clears to lead the defense.
• Rapid Fire – Rapidly outlet sequential shots from a teammate in quick succession.

These advanced lacrosse drills challenge you to clear under duress while maintaining accuracy, speed and consistency. You’ll refine your footwork around the cage, improve responsiveness to pressure, and strengthen throwing technique on the run from all angles.

A goalie initiating fast breaks with quick clears puts immense pressure on defenses. Work these drills regularly to transform into a field general capable of sparking instant offense off made saves. Your quick thinking and pinpoint outlet passes will become an offensive catalyst.

Don’t settle for just making saves. Extend those stops into unsettled scoring chances for your team. Hone your clearing accuracy, command and awareness with these essential goalie drills. Your clearing proficiency will elevate your defense into a potent transitional threat.

Lacrosse is a fast-paced, high-scoring game that requires exceptional skill on both offense and defense. While offensive players grab the headlines by lighting up the scoreboard, championships are won by stopping the other team from doing the same. Strong defensive play starts with mastering essential fundamentals through repetitive drills. Let’s explore 15 must-know practice exercises to improve your defensive prowess.

Slide Package Drills

The slide package is a coordinated team defense used to provide support when a defender gets beat. Quick, crisp slides are imperative for success. Set up a 6 vs 3 drill with two attackmen, two midfielders, and two defensemen. Have one midfielder start with the ball behind the cage and initiate a dodge against a defender. The second defender must slide over immediately once his teammate gets beat. The initial defender recovers back to the crease to pick up the open man while the slider retreats to cover his original assignment. Run this drill continuously, switching ballhandlers and rotating defenders. Master quick slides, communication, and recovering to your man.

Another vital slide package component is the second slide defender rotating over if the initial slide doesn’t stop the ball. Incorporate this action into the previous drill by adding a third defender who fills in for the player that just slid. This third man must sprint over rapidly if the initial slide fails to prevent a shot on goal. Quickly rotating multiple defenders teaches the entire defense to work together cohesively.

When practicing slides, defenders should call out “I’m sliding” or “I have ball” loudly to alert teammates. Everybody needs to understand their roles and replacements in the slide package sequence. Confidently yelling out information results in seamless slides and better defense.

Two-Man Game Drills

The two-man game in lacrosse is similar to the pick-and-roll in basketball where two offensive players use screens and passes to create scoring chances. As a defender, your position and communication with teammates are vital to stopping this offensive set. Set up a 2 vs. 2 drill with one player from each team starting with the ball. The offense initiates the two-man game by using a screen. The defender guarding the ballhandler must fight through the pick while voicing “screen left/right” to warn his partner. The screener’s defender adjusts his position based on this communication. Mastering the two-man game as a united defense is essential for denying easy goals.

Another important two-man concept is defending cutters off ball. Cutters look to get open for passes by making sharp cuts toward the goal. Designate one offensive player as the cutter and have him make angled v-cuts from either side of the goal. The key is for the defenders to position themselves between the cutter and ballhandler at all times. Talk constantly with phrases like “You have ball, I have cutter”. Keeping visual and verbal communication open ensures cutters don’t sneak behind the defense for easy catches and shots.

Defending Dodges

Dodging is one of the primary ways offensive players create shots and draw slides in lacrosse. As a defender, controlling your assignment’s dodge is critical. Start with simple 1 vs 1 dodging drills from up top, wings, and behind the cage. Focus on keeping an athletic stance with knees bent, back straight, feet shoulder-width apart, head up, and stick out front. Do not reach with your stick. Use short, quick shuffles to mirror dodges while concentrating on the opponent’s hips to anticipate their next move. Look to direct dodgers away from the middle of the field where they are most dangerous. Mastering position defense makes dodging much more difficult for ball carriers.

Incorporate 2 vs 1 and 3 vs 2 situations into dodging drills. The added offensive players allow the ball carrier to pass out of double teams and re-dodge against over-shifting defenses. Work on conservative positioning and smart double teams that constrict the ball but don’t overcommit and allow backdoor passes. Communicate constantly with phrases like “I have your help” and “Don’t over-commit”. Developing patience and discipline as a team when defending dodgers prevents easy goals.

Defending Picks

Picks or screens are a key part of generating offense through dodges and ball movement. As a defender, fighting through picks quickly and correctly is imperative. Start with simple 2 vs 2 drills where the offense sets picks around the crease and up top to create shots. Concentrate on approach – speed up through the pick when it’s set close to the ballcarrier. Slow down and lock hips when it’s set further away. Keep stick out front with bottom hand extended to fend off contact and stay square through the pick. Work together with your defensive partner by calling out “screen left/right” and “switch”. Mastering communication and positioning negates easy shots off picks.

Take this a step further by practicing situations like double picks, slips (when the screener quickly cuts to get open), and picks off ball. Add a 3rd offensive player so the ball carrier has more options to attack the defense. Emphasize teamwork by pursing lips, sliding early, and recovering appropriately off picks. Defending screens in every situation makes running organized offenses very difficult.

Live Drills

While orchestrated drills are valuable for honing fundamentals and communication, live game simulations are essential as well. Conclude practice with 6 vs 6 scrimmages focusing exclusively on defense. You can stipulate certain restrictions like no picks or no repeated dodges to concentrate work in key areas. The main objective is increasing repetitions defending live dodges, cuts, and off-ball screens at game speed. Charge takeaways and stops on goals to incentivize defenders. Nothing replicates game situations better than competitive scrimmaging.

Another interesting live drill is “monkey in the middle” with 3 defenders surrounded by 4-5 dodgers. The players on defense must fend off relentless dodging and passing while the offense sharpens their skills. Make it competitive by mandating the defenders complete a certain number of successful checks and stops before they can switch out. Monkey in the middle accelerates playing speed, reactions, and conditioning for defenders.

Incorporating demanding live game simulations into practice prepares defenders for the complex and fast variables that occur during real competition. Mastering defense against deliberate offenses in drills is important, but defenders ultimately need to execute against dynamic attacks in live play.

Perfecting the Fundamentals

Lacrosse defense requires mastering essential individual techniques before coordinated team concepts. Here are fundamental drills to ingrain proper defensive mechanics.

Footwork

Quick, agile footwork is imperative for defenders to maintain proper positioning against dodgers. Set up monkey in the middle with 3 defenders surrounded by dodgers without sticks. The goal is for defenders to utilize short, quick shuffles and drops to keep themselves between dodgers and the middle at all times. The offensive players receive points for every step into the middle. This drill focuses purely on footwork while strengthening defenders’ legs and hips. Fluid, controlled movements are essential for sticking with crafty ball carriers.

Stick Checks

Perfecting different types of stick checks gives defenders more options to dislodge balls. Work on poke checks by holding your stick horizontally and jabbing straight out to knock away passes or expose the ball for checks. Repetition strengthens accuracy. Next, perform lift checks by rotating your stick vertically and thrusting bottom hand up underneath opponent sticks to leverage them up and away from their body. Finally, practice slap checks by swinging sticks forcefully downward to dislodge the ball. Mastering an array of checks through repetitive drills creates more takeaway opportunities.

Ground Balls

Ground balls are one of the most important plays in lacrosse, yet often an afterthought. Run endless drills where you roll balls out in front for defenders to scoop up and pass back. Emphasize sprinting through balls, keeping your stick out front, head up, and following through to teammates. Designate certain balls as live where defenders must make clears after scooping. Strong individual and team ground ball skills generate more possessions.

Positioning

Correct positioning is vital to force dodgers and cutters away from the center of the field. Work on approach positioning in 1 vs. 1 drills by concentrating on keeping sticks in passing lanes, arms length away with no reaching, guiding dodgers down the sidelines, and maintaining an athletic stance. Next, practice off-ball defense by denying cutters the inside route to the ballhandler. Communicate coverage assignments like “I have ball, you have adjacent” and “You take away inside.” Refining essential individual defensive techniques establishes a strong foundation for team defense.

By mastering these 15 high-leverage lacrosse defensive drills, you can significantly raise your defensive capabilities. Employing slide packages, two-man coordination, pick and dodge techniques, and live game reps develops a cohesive defensive unit. Coupling those team drills with footwork, checking, ground balls, and approach positioning ingrains vital individual fundamentals. Applying these drills will frustrate opposing offenses and catapult your team’s defense to an elite level.

Defending the Crease

As a lacrosse defenseman, your main priority is protecting the crease and preventing the opposing team from scoring. This all starts with solid fundamentals – strong footwork, active sticks, and communication with your teammates. Mastering certain defensive drills can take your game to the next level. Here are 15 must-know drills to improve your lacrosse defense:

1. Mirror Drill

The mirror drill develops strong footwork and conditioning. Partner up with a teammate and stand about 5 yards apart. One partner acts as the initiator, while the other mirrors their exact movements – shuffling side to side, backpedaling, dropping into ready position, etc. Switch roles every minute. Keep your knees bent and stick up throughout the drill.

2. Alley Drill

Set up two cones about 10 yards apart to simulate the alley. The drill works on denying dodges while defending the crease. Have a teammate start with the ball at one cone. On the whistle, try to prevent them from getting to the crease. The dodger can try either alley dodge. Work on having active feet and stick to force them out. Switch roles after each rep.

3. Topside Drill

Position two cones on the crease, one at the center and one off to the side. The dodger starts with the ball at the top and tries to dodge topside and score on the crease. As the defender, work on angling them away from the crease while maintaining good body position. Switch sides after a few reps to practice both left and right dodges.

4. Split Dodge Drill

The split dodge can be tricky for defenders. Set up a cone at the top to simulate the dodger. As the defender, get in an athletic stance about 5 yards away. On the whistle, react as if the cone is split dodging either way and work on dropping your hips and shuffling to stay in front. Do 10-15 reps on each side.

5. Dead Ball Drill

This simple drill improves conditioning and reaction time. Place 6-8 balls around the crease. On the whistle, sprint to pick up each ball and place it in your stick, mimicking a dead ball situation. Work on playing through fatigue and recovering quickly after each sprint.

6. Ground Ball Drill

Strong ground ball skills prevent extra possessions. Partner up and roll ground balls to each other from different angles – to the left, right, at your feet, and away from your body. Scoop up each one while maintaining athletic stance. Do 10 reps then switch. Work on scooping through the ball in one fluid motion.

7. Topside Recovery Drill

Set up a cone just outside the crease to simulate an attackman. Start on the opposite side of the cone. On the whistle, work on backpedaling and angling your body to prevent them from rolling back and scoring after an initial topside dodge. Focus on quick feet and active stick throughout.

8. Chin Music Drill

This fun drill improves hand-eye coordination for snagging high passes. Partner up with one ball. Take turns tossing high passes right at each other’s helmet. Focus on tracking the ball with your eyes and absorbing it with your stick – no flinching! Do 10 reps each then switch roles.

9. Triangle Passing Drill

Quick ball movement is critical for defensemen. Set up in a triangle with two teammates about 10 yards apart. Rapidly pass the ball clockwise around the triangle, keeping your eyes up and sticks ready. Work at game speed for 30-60 seconds. Switch directions halfway through.

10. Crease Cradling Drill

Improve your stick protection around the net. Start just outside the crease in an athletic stance focused on the goal. Have a partner try to check your stick as you work on cradling and shielding it with your body. Keep your elbows tucked and stick close to maintain possession.

11. Split Dodge Pickup

Set up two cones 10 yards apart to simulate the alley. The dodger starts behind one cone with a ball. As the defender, react to their split dodge and work on staying in front while scooping up the ground ball. Focus on footwork and timing your pickup. Switch roles after each rep.

12. Local Drill

Quick slides are key for defenders. Set up cones at the top, wing, and corners. One player starts with the ball at a cone. The other defenders shuffle between cones, reacting as if each cone becomes “hot.” Communicate and work together to provide quick help defense. Rotate positions.

13. Defensive Shooting Drill

Apply defensive techniques in a live scoring drill. Start in a basic defensive setup in front of the cage. Have an attackman start with the ball up top and try to dodge defenders to score. Slide, recover, and communicate as needed to prevent goals. Reset after each attempt.

14. Body Position Drill

Good body position is critical one-on-one. Partner up with one ball. Take turns trying to dodge past each other while maintaining proper angles. As the defender, stay square and use your body to direct the dodger away from the crease. Do 5 reps then switch.

15. Close Defense Scramble Drill

This intense team drill works on all aspects of defense. Place 4-5 balls around the crease. Attackers start in random positions. On the whistle, the defense scrambles to recover all balls while communicating and covering their men. Great conditioning and mental toughness drill.

Mastering these drills will ingrain the footwork, positioning, and instincts needed to excel as a lacrosse defenseman. share them with your teammates and incorporate them into your practices to build a lockdown unit. Strong defense paves the path to victory, so put in the work on the practice field first. Stay disciplined in your technique and bring energy and effort each rep. The crease is yours to protect.

Defending Screens and Picks

As a lacrosse defenseman, you’ll frequently face offensive schemes involving screens and picks. Defending these well-timed plays requires quick thinking, communication, and an understanding of help defense principles. Mastering certain drills can take your ability to defend screens to the next level. Here are 15 vital drills to improve how you handle picks:

1. Mirror Drill

The mirror drill develops strong footwork to fight through screens. Have a teammate set up as the screener while you act as the defender. React and shuffle to mirror their movements as they screen left, right, and straight on. Keep your eyes up and stick active throughout. Do 2-3 sets of 30 seconds each.

2. Down Screen Drill

Set up two cones about 10 yards apart to simulate a crease-side screen. The attackman starts on the crease, while the middie sets a down screen near the cone. As the defender, work on communicating and handing off the middie while fighting over the screen. Reset after each rep.

3. Two-Man Game Drill

Incorporate a pick and roll into a scoring drill. Start with a picker at the top and a dodger on the wing. As the defenders, communicate on the screen and hedge. The dodger looks to score after using the pick. Work together to prevent the goal.

4. Help Defense Drill

Quick rotations are key against screens. Set up cones as offensive players across the top. As defenders, shuffle between cones calling out “I’ve got ball” and “I’ve got your help.” React as picks are set and work together to prevent goals.

5. Box Drill

This intense drill improves defending staggered screens. Four teammates act as dodgers, set up in a box formation. Defenders start in the middle and must fight through various screen situations. Offense can screen on or off ball – work on quick slides and bumping cutters.

6. Screen Reaction Drill

Set up a cone as an attacker with a partner as the screener. The screener sets picks in different directions as you work on keeping your feet moving and head on a swivel to get through cleanly. Do 10 reps, then switch roles.

7. Jam Drill

Being physical on screens is legal within 3 yards. Partner up with a screener and practice legally contacting them to jam up the play. Keep your hands chest level and use your forearms and shoulder. Do 5 reps each as the defender.

8. Down Screen Shooting

Apply screening defense in a live drill. Set up a picker near the crease and an attackman up top. As the defenders, communicate on handing off the picker and fighting over the screen. The attackman looks to score after the screen. Prevent the goal.

9. Blind Pick Drill

Work on defending blind picks set on your blind side. Partner up with a teammate. As you face forward, have them call “Pick right/left” before screening you on that side. React by keeping your feet moving and recovering through contact.

10. Pick and Fade

The pick and fade creates hesitations. Set up a cone on the crease for the screener. The attackman starts behind the screen, then fades to the wing for a shot. As the defender, fight through contact and stick with your man.

11. Pick and Roll Drill

Incorporate screening actions into a 2v2 game situation. The offense can set picks to create mismatches and scoring chances. The defense works together to communicate and rotate.

12. 5 Dubbie

This full team drill works on defending screens. 5 offensive players rotate setting picks while 1 defender tries covering each. Offense works the ball quickly to find openings. Defender focuses on fighting through contact.

13. Double Screen

Facing multiple picks requires speed and awareness. Set up cones on the wings as screeners. One attackman dodges around both picks as you fight through traffic and recover. Do 5 reps from each wing.

14. Scramble Drill

Add picks to a scramble situation. Place balls around the field as in a ground ball drill. Add screeners near each ball. Work on communicating through contact to recover balls.

15. Defensive Recognition

Read simple screen plays quickly. Show defenders various offensive setups – single screens, stagger screens, picks on and off ball. Call out responsibilities like “I’ve got ball” and “I’ve got your help” at game speed.

Defending screens tests a defenseman’s conditioning, footwork, and awareness. Mastering these drills will hone the techniques and communication needed to counter picks. Bring energy on every rep and take coaching from teammates. Proper screening defense limits easy goals and frustrates offenses. Put in the work on these drills to become a shutdown defender against any offensive set.

Defending Fast Breaks

Fast break opportunities can quickly swing momentum, so defending them well is critical. As a defender, you must balance protecting the cage while also slowing down opponents in transition. Mastering key fast break drills will hone your conditioning, footwork, and decision-making when outnumbered. Here are 15 vital drills for defending lacrosse fast breaks:

1. Mirror Drill

The mirror drill improves conditioning and backwards movement. Have a teammate act as the fast breaker while you mirror their movements. Backpedal and work on shifting directions rapidly while keeping your eyes up. Do 30-second sets and communicate throughout.

2. Sideline Sprint

Set up cones on the sidelines to simulate a fast break. Sprint between the cones going backwards and laterally. Have a partner call out directions. Work on backpedaling smoothly while staying controlled. Builds conditioning and agility.

3. 2v1 Drill

Defend a simulated 2v1 break. Two teammates start on the offensive half with a ball. As the defender, delay the ball carrier while angling them away from the middle and anticipating skips. Prevent easy shots on goal.

4. 3v2 Drill

Increase the challenge by facing a 3v2. Three teammates look to fast break vs two defenders. The defense works on slowing them down while communicating and covering cutters.

5. Recovery Drill

Test your fast break recovery skills. Start facing the midfield line then sprint backwards on the whistle. Angle your body to force the ball carrier towards the sideline. Work on backpedaling smoothly while reading the ball carrier.

6. Outlet vs Pressure

Apply defensive pressure during a clearing situation. One player starts with the ball on the defensive end. The other applies pressure from behind as they look to clear it past midfield. Alternate roles each rep.

7. Clear and Replace

Transition from defense to offense smoothly. As you clear the ball past midfield, sprint back on defense. The next player leads the fast break the other way for a shot. Quickly change directions while communicating.

8. Fast Break Shooting

Defend fast break scoring chances in a live drill. Attackmen start on a fast break vs. a lone defender. Work on contesting their shots without fouling. Reset after each attempt.

9. Odd Man Communication

Voice commands are vital when outnumbered. Face multiple fast breakers and work on loud, clear communication – “I’ve got ball!” “I’m providing help!” “Slide left!” React as they cut and make passes.

10. Slow Break

Simulate defending a slow-developing break. Partners start on the midfield line and build into a fast break. As the defender, delay the offense while straddling the midfield and watching for skip passes.

11. Goal Line Sprints

Build stamina and explosiveness to cover the entire field. Place cones at the goal lines and midfield. Sprint in between, working on changing direction rapidly while remaining controlled.

12. Fast Break Scramble

Test full field conditioning. Place balls around the offensive half. On the whistle, sprint end-to-end placing balls in your stick, then sprinting back to the other end.

13. Close Fast Break

Defend fast break chances originating in your defensive zone. Attackers start with the ball below the restraining line. Work on slowing them down before they hit the offensive zone.

14. Read and React

Improve decision making when outnumbered. Partners randomly crisscross the field, forcing you to prioritize threats and make quick slides. Focus on angles and body position.

15. Odd Man Situations

Face live simulated fast breaks. Offense starts with a man advantage and looks to score quickly. As defenders, communicate, slow them down, and force low percentage shots.

Preventing easy transition goals requires conditioning, communication, and smart angles from the defense. Incorporate these fast break drills into your practices to fine tune those skills. Compete with energy and focus each rep. Put in the work on fast break defense and you’ll take away the other team’s biggest weapon.

Defending Behind the Net

Strong defense behind the net is critical to limiting dangerous chances from X. Mastering proper positioning, communication, and stick techniques in this area of the field can shut down offenses. Incorporate these 15 vital drills into practice to excel at defending behind the cage:

1. Mirror Drill

The mirror drill develops strong footwork for defending behind. Partner up and react as they shuffle left and right to simulate an attackman. Focus on short, choppy steps to mirror their movements and control the gap.

2. Can Drill

Work on denying topside dodges from behind the net. Set up cones as “cans” on the crease. Partner starts behind the net and looks to dodge topside on either side. Maintain good body position to force them down the alley.

3. Rollover Drill

Drill defending quick rolls from behind the net. Set up cones to simulate the goal. Your partner starts with the ball behind the net and can roll to either side. React quickly while communicating with your teammates.

4. Outlet vs. Pressure

Apply active stick pressure when guarding behind. Partner starts with the ball behind the net. Work on smart stick checks and angling your body to contain them while anticipating outlet passes.

5. Can Scramble

Test reaction time and conditioning. Place 4-5 balls around the crease like cans. On the whistle, sprint and collect each ground ball with your stick and then quickly locate your man.

6. Challenge Dodge

Defend dodges after quick challenges behind the cage. Start by pressuring the ball carrier. Your partner then looks to dodge topside. Work on recovering while maintaining body position.

7. Outlet Pass Drill

Set up cones as cutters. The dodger behind the net looks to hit them with outlet passes. As the defender, anticipate the passes while pressuring the ball carrier.

8. Ground Ball Box Drill

Hone ground ball skills for loose balls behind the net. Roll grounders to your partner who scoops them up quickly in each box area around the crease, lefty and righty.

9. Pick and Roll

Defend screening actions from behind the cage. Set up a defender at the top of the crease. The player behind screens them for the attackman cutting from X. Switch off your man and bump the picker.

10. Chaos Drill

Simulate wild situations behind the net with multiple offensive players. Work on finding your man in traffic, communicating with teammates, and forcing the offense away from the net.

11. Goal Line Sprints

Build conditioning to cover the crease area. Place cones at the end lines and sprint back and forth, working on changing direction. Keep your eyes up and head on a swivel.

12. Outlet Defense

Defend full outlet passing sequences from behind. Your partner looks to clear the ball upfield off an outlet. Work on rerouting cutters while pressuring the man behind the cage.

13. X Passing

Quick sticks defend behind the net passing. At X, work on intercepting and checking sticks as your partner quickly passes the ball behind the net back and forth.

14. 2v2 Behind

Defend with teammates behind the net in a live 2v2 setup. The offense looks to find seams while the defenders communicate and force them to low percentage shots.

15. Clear Through Contact

Simulate physical play when clearing from behind. Your partner applies stick checks and body contact as you shield the ball and clear through the pressure.

Strong defense behind the net frustrates offenses by taking away high percentage shots. Incorporate these drills often to hone footwork, conditioning, and communication in the cage area. Compete with discipline and focus on the details in each rep. Mastering these techniques will make you a shutdown defender from top to bottom.

Defending the Alley Dodge

The alley dodge is one of the most common and effective moves attackmen use to beat their defenders. As a close defenseman, you’ll need to master proper techniques for shutting it down. Drilling alley defense improves footwork, conditioning, and approach angle to stop dodgers in their tracks. Here are 15 drills to excel at defending the alley dodge:

1. Mirror Drill

The mirror drill builds strong lateral movement and body position. Have a teammate shuffle side to side to simulate alley dodging. Mirror their movements by chopping your feet to control the gap. Do 30-second sets then switch.

2. Alley Approach

Work on proper approach angles when your man has alley leverage. Set up cones on the wings. Your partner starts with the ball straight on. React as they dodge down either alley and work on guiding them outside.

3. Bowling Pins

Set up cones as “bowling pins” on the wings about 5 yards apart. The dodger starts at the first pin and looks to dodge alleys and shoot between each one. Work on closing gaps quickly and forcing them out.

4. Topside Recovery

Recover after getting beat topside off an alley dodge. Set up cones on the crease as your man. After getting beat to the alley, sprint back and get goal-side. Work on short choppy steps to regain leverage.

5. Alley Scramble

A great conditioning and reaction time drill. Place balls down both alleys. On the whistle, sprint and scoop up each one, then find your man. Play through fatigue and stick with proper technique.

6. Dodge and Recover

Alternate dodging alley and recovering. Set up cones on the wing, then dodge the alley and make a move to the crease. Quickly sprint back and get into stance to mirror the next rep.

7. Situational Drill

Apply alley techniques in game situations. Start from different spots like on the wing, from behind the net, or at X. React to your partner’s dodge and work to force them down the alley.

8. Roll Back

Defend alley dodges with roll back shots. The dodger looks to draw you and roll back for a quick crease shot after dodging alley. Work on keeping your stick in the passing lane and body positioned to contest shots.

9. Alley Approach Ladder

Use lateral ladder drills to improve footwork. Have your partner dodge the alley as you react and chop your feet quickly in and out of the ladder. Focus on short controlled steps to mirror their movements.

10. Closeout Drill

Improve recovery footwork after getting beat. Backpedal away from your man on the wing then sprint forward on the whistle. Chop steps as you closeout and work to regain proper positioning.

11. Situational 2v2

Defend live alley dodges in a 2v2 setup. The offense looks to create mismatches off picks and screens. Work on communicating with your teammate and closing gaps.

12. Dodge Day

Do a high volume of live alley dodges in practice. Attackmen take turns dodging their defenders 1v1 from different spots on the field. Defenders focus on techniques to force low percentage shots.

13. Dodge Circuit

Continuously dodge and recover with a partner to build conditioning. Set up cones on the wings. Dodge alley, make a crease move, then sprint back to mirror your partner.

14. Blind Dodge

Work on reacting to alley dodges from your blind side. Your partner calls out “Dodge left/right” then attacks that alley. Stay squared up and use short choppy steps to react.

15. Scramble Reaction

Chaotic live drill with dodging and picks. Offense looks to create alleys with screens. As the defender, work on communicating with teammates and closing gaps quickly.

Sharpening your alley defense requires footwork and conditioning. Drill these techniques regularly to take away dodgers’ explosiveness. Maintaining proper angles and body position will frustrate opponents. Consistent alley defense gives you leverage and dictates the matchup in your favor.

Defending the Roll Dodge

The roll dodge is a slick move used by attackmen to create just enough space for a quick shot on goal. As a defender, you’ll need quick feet and stick skills to prevent roll dodges from becoming easy goals. Drilling the proper techniques against this move will make you a dominant cover man. Here are 15 drills to help defend the roll dodge:

1. Mirror Drill

The mirror drill develops strong lateral movement. Have a teammate shuffle side to side to simulate a roll dodge. Use short, choppy steps to mirror their movements and control the gap.

2. Reaction Drill

Set up cones as an attacker on the wing, crease, and at X. On the whistle, react as your partner roll dodges around each cone. Work on staying square while shuffling your feet.

3. Roll Dodge Shooting

Defend live roll dodges in a shooting drill. Your partner looks to draw you in and roll back to create space for a quick shot. Focus on short choppy steps and contesting shots.

4. Split to Roll

The split to roll combo is very deceptive. React as your partner fakes the split dodge then comes back inside for the roll dodge. Stay balanced and use your body to force them out.

5. Roll Dodge Scramble

Chaotic drill to improve conditioning and reactions. Place balls around the cage. Scramble to recover each ground ball after your partner roll dodges in every direction.

6. Roll Dodge and Recover

Alternate dodging and recovering. Set up a cone on the wing. Take turns dodging the cone with an inside roll then recovering back to your stance. Builds footwork and conditioning.

7. Situational Roll

Apply roll dodge defense in game situations. React as your partner calls out scenarios like “Roll from X” or “Quick crease roll.” Work on positioning and body leverage in each spot.

8. Blind Dodge

Test defending blind side rolls. Partner calls out “Roll right/left” then attacks that side. Listen to cues and use short choppy steps to adjust your body position.

9. Flat Roll

The flat roll across the top is tough to defend. Have your partner do slow flat rolls as you mirror their movements. Focus on quick lateral steps to stay in front.

10. Roll Recovery Drill

Improve recovery after getting beat. Face your partner then backpedal as they start their roll. Sprint forward on the whistle and work to regain proper positioning.

11. Roll Dodge Circuit

Build stamina with continuous live dodging. Set up cones around the cage. Dodge and roll off each one before recovering back to your original positioning.

12. Situational 2v2

Defend live roll dodges in a 2v2 setup. The offense looks to create space off picks. Communicate with your teammate and use proper technique.

13. Dodge Day

Have attackmen continuously dodge defenders 1v1 in practice. Roll dodge from different angles. Defenders focus on quick reactions and body position.

14. Box Drill

Intense footwork and conditioning drill. Set up cones in a box formation around the cage. Backpedal and shuffle between cones as your partner reacts with roll dodges.

15. Odd Man Roll

Simulate roll dodges during fast breaks. Attackmen start on odd man breaks and use rolls to create room for shots. Work on slowing them down and forcing sideline.

Sharpening your roll dodge defense requires quick footwork and reaction time. Drilling proper techniques will take away dodgers’ ability to create space inside. Force shooters out of their comfort zone and into low percentage chances. Dominating roll dodgers gives you control of the matchup.

Defending Inverted Offense

Inverted offenses turn traditional midfield setups upside down, presenting unique challenges for defenses. When attackmen invert up top and initiate dodges, communication and rotation are key. Drilling for inverted sets will hone your team approach and prevent confusing mismatches. Here are 15 vital drills for defending inverted offenses:

1. Two-Man Game

Simulate defending an inverted pick and roll. Set up an attackman and middie up top. Work on communicating the switch as the middie sets a pick and the attackman handles the ball.

2. Slide Package

Establish slide rules for when the ball is up top. Designate when and where you will slide from when an inverted attackman beats his defender.

3. 5v4 Topside

Play 5v4 with a focus on topside defense. The offense inverts a middie up top, forcing the defense to rotate and communicate through dodges.

4. Invert Recognition

Quickly identify offensive sets and call out responsibilities. Show defenders common inverted looks. Work on shouting matchups like “I have ball” and “I have adjacent.”

5. Adjacent Shuffle

Improve lateral movement between attackmen up top. Set up two cones for your men. Shuffle side to side and forward/back depending on their positioning.

6. Topside Closeouts

Quickly rotate to inverted players up top. Close out from the crease, wings, and midfield to simulated inverted dodgers. Work on angles to force them down alley.

7. 2v2 Topside

Defend up top in a live 2v2 inverted setup. Attackmen look to play catch and create mismatches. Work together to force low percentage shots.

8. Slide and Recover

Drill quick rotations and recovery against inverted sets. Slide to a dodger up top from the crease, then sprint to recover your adjacent man.

9. Triangle Rotations

Move the ball rapidly when dodging from up top. Pass quickly between three attackmen and work on sliding and recovering as defenders.

10. Odd Man Communication

Clean communication is vital when outnumbered by inverted looks. React to cuts and slides while clearly calling out matchups.

11. Invert Scramble

Chaotic odd man drill with an invert focus. Attackmen start on fast breaks and invert the offense. Work on matching up quickly while forcing outside.

12. 6v5 Topside

Tough team drill working on inverted slides and rotation. Extra offensive player constantly inverts up top against base defense.

13. Angle of Approach

Set up cones as inverted attackmen. Work on proper angles closing out when the ball is up top. Shorten the field and force downhill.

14. Ball Watching

Stay off-ball aware when inverting behind. Attackmen pass around the perimeter as you call out cuts and slides off-ball.

15. Odd Man Invert

Live odd man drill with inverting midfielders in transition. Offense pushes tempo to find mismatches. Work together to lock off inverted areas.

Preparing for inverted offenses prevents confusion against unorthodox sets. Drilling communication, positioning, and off-ball awareness will stifle inverted looks. Takeaway easy alley access and force low percentage chances. Strong topside defense builds trust between teammates.

Defending Extra Man Situations

As a lacrosse defender, one of the most challenging situations you’ll face is defending against an extra man offense. With the offense up a man, they gain a significant advantage if you don’t know how to properly defend it. But with the right preparation and defensive drills, you can learn to minimize the impact of their extra man and get the ball back. In this article, we’ll explore 15 must-know lacrosse drills to improve your defense against extra man offenses.

An extra man situation, also known as EMO or man-up, occurs when the defense temporarily loses a player to a penalty. This gives the offense a 6-on-5 player advantage which they can capitalize on if the defense fails to adjust properly. The keys to defending EMO are maintaining defensive positioning, communicating constantly, avoiding over-aggression and forcing the offense to take tougher shots.

Slide Drills

One of the most important aspects of defending an extra man is quickly sliding to support the on-ball defender and prevent easy passes. Here are some great slide drills to practice:

• 2 vs. 1 Ground Ball Drill – Place two offensive players against one defender in a small area with several ground balls. On the whistle, the players compete for the ground ball, working on proper sliding and positioning in tight quarters.
• Full Slide Drill – Offense starts with the ball on one side of the field, the defender guarding the ball carrier yells “Slide!” and a defender slides from the weak side to cover the open man and prevent a pass.
• Sliding from Behind Drill – A defender starts behind the goal with an offensive player in front ready to dodge. On the whistle, the defender has to slide out from behind the goal to cover the ball carrier.

Gap Control Drills

When defending an extra man, it’s vital to keep proper spacing between defenders to take away passing lanes. Here are some lacrosse drills to work on gap control:

• 3 Man Triangle Passing Drill – Three defenders form a triangle and must work together to prevent passes between three offensive players moving around them.
• Gap Control Mirror Drill – Partners start 10-15 yards apart and must mirror each other’s lateral movements to maintain proper gap, working on backside positioning.
• Dodge Gap Drill – An offensive player starts 10 yards away from a defender and tries to dodge while maintaining spacing. The defender mirrors and works to control the gap.

Communication Drills

Constant communication between defenders is vital when outnumbered in an EMO situation. Here are some great lacrosse communication drills:

• “Hot Potato” Slide Drill – Defenders pass a ball back and forth while calling out the next slide recipient, working on directing the slides.
• No Eye Contact Drill – Defenders work together to prevent passes and shots but without making eye contact, emphasizing voice commands.
• Silent Slide Drill – Sliding defenders must point and use signals to direct on-ball pressure and slides, no voice commands allowed.

Double Team Drills

Executing quick and organized double teams on the ball carrier can create turnovers in an EMO. Drills like:

• 2 on 1 Double Team Drill – On-ball defender yells “Help!” and adjacent defender double teams the ball carrier.
• Triangle Double Team Drill – Ball carrier dodges at corner defender while two adjacent defenders simultaneously double.
• Split Double Teach Drill – First defender picks up ball carrier from behind while second defender double teams from frontside.

Defending Cutters Drills

When defending an extra man, off-ball cutters will try to get open for easy shots. Work on defending cutters with drills like:

• Chase Drill – Defender starts behind the offensive player and must keep gap while following cuts across the field.
• Deny Drill – Defender starts in front and must work to deny passes to the cutter he’s defending.
• Read React Drill – Coach yells a cut direction, offensive player makes the cut, defender must react quickly to get in position.

By mastering these lacrosse defensive drills, you’ll significantly improve your ability to defend extra man situations. Always remember the keys of solid positioning, communication, avoiding over-aggression and forcing tough shots. With the right techniques and preparation, you can give your team a fighting chance even when outnumbered on defense.

Full Field Scrimmaging

As a lacrosse player, some of the most valuable practice you can get is full field scrimmaging. Running full field lacrosse scrimmages allows you to work on skills and situations in a game-like environment. While drills are important, scrimmaging against teammates prepares you for the speed and physicality of real game action. Here we’ll explore 15 tips to maximize your benefits from full field scrimmaging.

The main advantage of full field scrimmaging is it provides a realistic game setting to practice your skills. You get to work on offense, defense, and transition against opponents giving active resistance. Scrimmages build game awareness, conditioning, team chemistry and mental toughness. To get the most out of your full field lacrosse scrimmages, focus on quality over quantity of runs.

Focus on Game Situations

Use full field scrimmages to practice specific in-game scenarios like:

• Extra man offense/defense
• Last minute game situations
• Playing from behind
• Defending a lead
• Faceoffs

Set the score and time left to match the scenario you want to work on. This builds muscle memory and confidence for when those situations occur in real games.

Emphasize Good Habits

Full scrimmages allow you to reinforce good lacrosse techniques and habits like:

• Proper shooting form
• Crisp passing
• Playing at full speed
• Hustling on and off the field
• Transitioning quickly between offense and defense

Constantly emphasize executing fundamentals properly, even when fatigued late in the scrimmage.

Work on Team Concepts

Scrimmages are a great chance to sharpen team offensive and defensive concepts like:

• Motion offense
• Fast breaks
• Rides and clears
• Slides and defensive rotations
• Faceoff plays

Repetition will improve coordination and timing executing team tactics at full speed.

Change Field Dimensions

Alter the scrimmage field dimensions to focus on different aspects of the game:

• Play 9v9 or 7v7 to emphasize spacing, passing, and movement.
• Use a narrow field to force play in traffic.
• Shorten the field to concentrate on the offensive zone.

Changing field sizes keeps scrimmages fresh while emphasizing particular skills.

Limit Stick Usage

Try restricting stick use in scrimmages to improve specific abilities:

• Left hand only – builds left hand skills.
• Right hand only – forces use of off hand.
• One hand behind back – improves one-handed play.
• Ground ball only – forces ground ball focus.

Forcing players out of their comfort zone expands versatility and ball control.

Play Man-Down

Occasionally make teams play a man down in scrimmages. This works on skills like:

• Moving faster and making quicker decisions.
• Playing with greater energy and urgency.
• Operating in tight spaces.
• Valuing every possession.

Playing man-down instills an underdog mentality and forces full effort.

Limit Substitutions

Restricting substitutions increases conditioning. Try:

• No substitutions for a full period.
• Only allow subs during timeouts or dead balls.
• Enforce a max substitution number per player.

Playing ironman lacrosse builds stamina and mental toughness.

Utilizing these tips during full field scrimmages will maximize their benefits for you and your team. The game-like atmosphere prepares you for competitive games while allowing coaches to reinforce skills and concepts. Scrimmage early and often to build your lacrosse IQ and take your game to the next level.