How can you improve your lacrosse performance using mesh stick techniques. What are the key skills for mastering cradling, stick handling, and ball protection. Which drills and strategies will enhance your on-field confidence and agility.

Mastering the Art of Cradling: The Foundation of Lacrosse Excellence

Cradling is the cornerstone of any successful lacrosse player’s repertoire. It’s not just about keeping the ball in your stick; it’s about maintaining control while on the move, evading defenders, and setting up scoring opportunities. But how can you perfect this essential skill?

The key to effective cradling lies in the combination of proper technique and the right equipment. A well-strung mesh pocket provides the perfect cradle for the ball, allowing for smoother control and enhanced feel. However, even the best stick won’t compensate for poor technique.

The Mechanics of Proper Cradling

• Angle the stick head slightly back, with the pocket facing upwards
• Keep the stick in constant sideways motion, gently rocking the ball
• Tuck your elbows close to your body for better control
• Maintain a relaxed grip on the stick to allow for fluid wrist movement
• Adopt a balanced, slightly forward-leaning stance while running

Can you cradle effectively at top speed? This is where practice comes into play. Start slow and gradually increase your pace, focusing on maintaining control and rhythm. As you become more comfortable, incorporate sudden direction changes and dodges into your cradling routine. This will help you develop the adaptability needed in high-pressure game situations.

Quick Stick Handling: Boosting Confidence and Agility on the Field

Confidence in your stick handling abilities can make the difference between a good player and a great one. Quick, precise movements with your lacrosse stick not only help you outmaneuver opponents but also create scoring opportunities for yourself and your teammates. How can you develop these crucial skills?

Essential Quick Stick Drills

1. One-Hand Cradling: Strengthen your wrist and forearm muscles while improving coordination
2. Figure 8s: Enhance dexterity by moving the stick head in a figure 8 pattern around your body
3. Quick Stick Rotations: Rotate the stick 360 degrees around your body while maintaining control
4. Toss Cradling: Practice catching and cradling by gently tossing the ball into the pocket
5. Behind-the-Back Cradling: Build arm strength and improve ambidexterity

Remember, the key to mastering these drills is consistency and gradual progression. Start slowly, focusing on proper technique, and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable. By dedicating time to these exercises, you’ll develop the muscle memory necessary for instinctive, confident stick handling during games.

The Art of Ball Protection: Body Positioning Strategies

In lacrosse, possession is everything. Knowing how to shield the ball from defenders is a crucial skill that can keep your team on the offensive. But what are the most effective techniques for protecting the ball?

Key Body Positioning Tips

• Center your stick in front of your core when cradling
• Adopt a low, protective stance with bent knees and a centered gravity
• Use your shoulder on the stick side to shield from checks
• Employ your free arm to ward off defensive maneuvers
• Keep the stick head on the far side of your body, away from defenders
• Cradle the ball to the outside to draw defenders away from your core

To truly master these techniques, incorporate them into your practice routines. Have teammates or coaches apply light pressure and attempt checks from various angles while you maintain your protective stance. This will help you develop the instincts needed to react quickly and effectively in game situations.

Advanced Dodging Techniques: Outmaneuvering Your Opponents

Dodging is an essential skill for any lacrosse player looking to create scoring opportunities or evade defenders. But how can you take your dodging game to the next level?

Perfecting Your Dodges

1. Face Dodge: Fake a pass or shot to one side, then quickly move in the opposite direction
2. Roll Dodge: Use your body as a shield while spinning away from a defender
3. Split Dodge: Change hands quickly while moving laterally to throw off defenders
4. Bull Dodge: Use your strength to power through defenders in close quarters
5. Question Mark Dodge: Combine a roll dodge with a quick change of direction

The key to mastering these dodges is practice and timing. Start by perfecting each move individually, then work on combining them in fluid sequences. Remember, the element of surprise is your greatest asset when dodging. Keep defenders guessing by varying your moves and incorporating fakes into your repertoire.

Shooting Accuracy: Honing Your Precision with a Mesh Stick

A well-placed shot can be the difference between victory and defeat in lacrosse. How can you improve your shooting accuracy using a mesh stick?

Shooting Drills for Improved Accuracy

• Target Practice: Set up targets in the goal and aim for specific spots
• Quick Release Drills: Practice shooting quickly from various positions on the field
• On-the-Run Shooting: Improve your ability to shoot accurately while moving
• Weak Hand Shooting: Develop ambidexterity by practicing with your non-dominant hand
• Bounce Shot Practice: Master the art of using the ground to your advantage

Remember, consistency is key when it comes to improving your shooting accuracy. Set aside time each practice session to focus specifically on your shot. Pay attention to your form, follow-through, and the placement of your shots. With dedicated practice, you’ll see significant improvements in your shooting precision.

Ground Ball Mastery: Winning Possession Battles

Ground balls are often referred to as the “hustle stats” in lacrosse, and for good reason. Winning these battles can shift the momentum of a game and create scoring opportunities. But how can you improve your ground ball skills?

Ground Ball Techniques and Drills

1. The Scoop: Perfect the basic scooping motion for clean pickups
2. Box Drill: Practice scooping ground balls while moving in different directions
3. Reaction Drill: Improve your ability to quickly locate and scoop loose balls
4. Traffic Drill: Enhance your skills in crowded situations
5. One-Handed Scoop: Master the technique for picking up balls in tight spaces

When practicing ground ball techniques, focus on maintaining a low body position, getting your stick parallel to the ground, and accelerating through the ball. Remember, winning ground balls is as much about desire and hustle as it is about technique. Approach each ground ball with determination and intensity.

Defensive Stick Skills: Disrupting the Opposition

While offensive skills often get the spotlight, defensive stick work is equally crucial in lacrosse. How can you use your mesh stick to become a more effective defender?

Essential Defensive Stick Techniques

• Poke Check: Jab at the opponent’s stick or hands to disrupt their control
• Slap Check: Use a controlled slapping motion to dislodge the ball
• Lift Check: Attempt to lift the opponent’s stick from underneath
• Trail Check: Apply pressure from behind while chasing an opponent
• Wrap Check: Reach around the opponent to check their stick

When practicing these defensive techniques, focus on timing and control. Effective checking is about precision, not power. Work on your footwork in conjunction with your stick skills to maintain proper positioning. Remember, the goal is to force turnovers and regain possession, not to commit penalties.

Improving Your Passing Game: Precision and Power

Accurate and timely passing is the backbone of any successful lacrosse offense. How can you enhance your passing skills to become a more valuable player on the field?

Passing Drills for Enhanced Performance

1. Wall Ball: Practice passing against a wall to improve accuracy and catching
2. Partner Passing: Work with a teammate to practice various types of passes
3. Moving Target Drills: Improve your ability to lead receivers with your passes
4. Behind-the-Back Passing: Master this advanced technique for unpredictable plays
5. Rapid Fire Passing: Enhance your quick release and decision-making skills

When working on your passing, focus on both accuracy and power. A well-placed pass is useless if it’s too slow to reach its target. Practice passing with both hands to become truly ambidextrous. Remember, great passers not only hit their targets but also put the ball in a position where their teammates can make their next move seamlessly.

Faceoff Techniques: Gaining the Upper Hand

Faceoffs can significantly impact the outcome of a lacrosse game by controlling possession. What techniques can you employ to improve your faceoff success rate?

Key Faceoff Strategies

• The Clamp: Master the quick downward motion to gain initial control
• The Rake: Use a sweeping motion to direct the ball to your wingmen
• The Plunger: Push forward while clamping to create separation
• The Pinch and Pop: Squeeze the ball and pop it up to yourself
• The Counter Move: Anticipate and react to your opponent’s strategy

Successful faceoffs require a combination of technique, strength, and reaction time. Practice these moves regularly, focusing on explosive movements and maintaining a low center of gravity. Remember, winning the faceoff is just the beginning – you need to secure possession and transition quickly to offense or defense.

Developing Field Vision: Enhancing Your Lacrosse IQ

Great lacrosse players don’t just have physical skills; they also possess excellent field vision and game awareness. How can you improve your ability to read the field and make smart decisions?

Exercises to Improve Field Vision

1. Situational Drills: Practice reacting to various game scenarios
2. Film Study: Analyze game footage to better understand player movements and strategies
3. Small-Sided Games: Participate in 3v3 or 4v4 scrimmages to enhance decision-making
4. Vision Training: Use peripheral vision exercises to expand your field of view
5. Play Other Positions: Gain a new perspective by practicing in different roles

Developing field vision takes time and experience. Make a conscious effort to keep your head up and survey the field during drills and scrimmages. Learn to anticipate your teammates’ movements and identify scoring opportunities before they develop. Remember, the best players are often those who can think several steps ahead of the play.

Conditioning for Lacrosse: Building Endurance and Explosiveness

Lacrosse demands both endurance for continuous play and explosiveness for quick bursts of speed. How can you tailor your conditioning to meet these specific needs?

Lacrosse-Specific Conditioning Exercises

• Interval Sprints: Mimic the stop-and-go nature of lacrosse
• Agility Ladder Drills: Improve footwork and change of direction speed
• Plyometric Exercises: Enhance explosive power for shots and dodges
• Core Strengthening: Develop a strong midsection for better balance and power
• Endurance Runs: Build stamina for full-game performance

When designing your conditioning program, focus on exercises that replicate the movements and energy systems used in lacrosse. Incorporate stick skills into your conditioning work to improve your ability to perform under fatigue. Remember, proper nutrition and recovery are just as important as the workouts themselves for optimal performance.

Mental Preparation: Developing a Winning Mindset

Physical skills are crucial in lacrosse, but mental preparation can often be the difference between good and great players. How can you develop a winning mindset to elevate your game?

Strategies for Mental Toughness

1. Visualization: Mentally rehearse successful plays and performances
2. Goal Setting: Establish clear, achievable objectives for improvement
3. Positive Self-Talk: Use affirmations to boost confidence and focus
4. Mindfulness: Practice staying present and focused during high-pressure situations
5. Routine Development: Create pre-game rituals to enhance mental readiness

Mental preparation is an ongoing process that requires consistent effort. Set aside time each day to work on your mental game, just as you would for physical practice. Learn to control your emotions and maintain focus under pressure. Remember, a strong mental game can help you perform at your best even when your physical skills aren’t at their peak.

Team Communication: Elevating Your Collective Performance

Effective communication is the glue that holds a lacrosse team together. How can you improve your on-field communication to enhance team performance?

Key Communication Strategies

• Vocal Leadership: Use clear, concise calls to direct teammates
• Non-Verbal Cues: Develop signals for common plays and situations
• Feedback Loop: Provide and receive constructive feedback during play
• Off-Field Bonding: Build trust and understanding with teammates
• Situational Awareness: Constantly update teammates on field positions and potential threats

Practice communication drills during team sessions to develop a shared language and understanding. Encourage open dialogue among teammates to address issues and improve strategies. Remember, effective communication not only improves on-field performance but also builds team cohesion and trust.

Proper Cradling Technique for Faster Runs

As any lacrosse player knows, being able to cradle the ball properly while running at full speed is crucial to offensive success. A mesh lacrosse stick allows you to cradle the ball with greater control and comfort, but you still need to develop the right techniques. The key is keeping the head of your stick angled back and the pocket facing up towards you. As you’re running, keep the stick constantly moving sideways in a smooth motion to gently rock the ball from side to side in the pocket. Don’t just hold the stick statically or you’ll lose control. Keep your elbows tucked in close to your body and don’t grip the stick too tightly. This allows your wrists to move more freely as you cradle. Maintain a balanced athletic stance as you run, leaning slightly forward. Practice cradling at faster and faster speeds while maintaining control. It takes time to develop the hand-eye coordination and rhythm required for cradling on the run. But with the right mesh pocket and proper technique, you’ll be able to fly past defenders while shielding the ball.

Once you can consistently cradle at top speed, focus on incorporating fakes and sudden changes of direction into your runs. Quick stick handling moves like the face dodge, roll dodge, and split dodge allow you to freeze and fake out defenders while protecting the ball. As you plant your foot and pivot, keep cradling the ball smoothly through the pocket to maintain control. Practice cradling with both hands to become fully ambidextrous. Defenders will try to lift your bottom hand or check your stick hand, so be prepared. Having proper cradling fundamentals with a well-strung mesh pocket gives you the tools to create separation and drive towards the goal.

Quick Stick Handling Drills to Build Confidence

Lacrosse is a fast-paced game that requires quick stick skills and confidence handling the ball under pressure. Here are some helpful drills using a mesh lacrosse stick to improve your hand quickness and reflexes:

• One-Hand Cradling – Cradle the ball back and forth rapidly using only your dominant hand and keeping your arm extended. This strengthens wrist and forearm muscles while increasing coordination.
• Figure 8s – Move the stick head rapidly in a figure 8 pattern around your body, cradling the ball under control. Do this cradling forward and backward to improve dexterity.
• Quick Stick Rotations – With bent knees in an athletic stance, rotate the stick 360 degrees around your body multiple times while cradling. Work on both clockwise and counterclockwise rotations.
• Toss Cradling – Gently toss the ball up into the pocket and quickly cradle it before catching it again. Increase speed and height of tosses as skills improve.
• Behind-the-Back Cradling – Swing the stick behind your back, switching hands as needed, and continue cradling smoothly. Helps build arm and wrist strength.

Start these drills slowly and focus on proper technique before working up to game speed. Having quick stick skills will make you much harder to defend. The key is developing the muscle memory so handling the ball becomes second nature. Trust in your ability to cradle under pressure by logging repetitions with these challenging drills. With consistent practice, your confidence and quickness using a mesh lacrosse stick will continue to improve.

Mastering these fast-paced drills also improves your reaction time for ground balls. Scope up grounders confidently, quickly cradling them under control before defenders can react. Winning loose ball battles starts with sticking skills. So grab your mesh lacrosse stick and get to work on these essential drills for building quick hands and boosting on-field confidence.

Body Positioning to Shield the Ball from Defenders

As a lacrosse player, you need to protect the ball from defenders trying to check your stick or strip it loose. Proper body positioning is crucial. Here are some tips for using your mesh lacrosse stick and body to shield the ball:

• Keep your stick centered in front of your core when cradling, elbows tucked in.
• Low protective stance – knees bent, butt back to keep center of gravity centered.
• Lead with your shoulder on the side of the stick head to shield it from prying checks.
• Use your free arm to ward off stick checks and ride checks from defenders.
• Keep the stick head on the far side of your body – away from defenders.
• Cradle the ball to the outside to draw defenders away from your core.

Practice cradling and running drills while coaches or teammates lightly push and check you from different angles. Maintain your protective stance throughout. Keep your head on a swivel to see approaching defenders.

Spin away or pivot away from pressure quickly while shielding the ball. Think of always keeping your core between the ball and defenders. Develop the footwork to sidestep checking attempts while keeping the cradle smooth.

With the right technique and plenty of reps, shielding the ball will start to feel natural. Proper positioning plus a well-strung mesh pocket allows you to control the ball securely. Fending off checks while retaining possession becomes instinctual over time. Trust in your ability to shield ground balls and passes from pressure. Body positioning is a huge factor in playing strong lacrosse between the lines. Keep working on the fundamentals of shielding the ball in your mesh lacrosse stick and you’ll see results.

On the field, search out the soft spots on the defense where you have more time and space. Use sharp cuts and create separation to avoid getting trapped by multiple defenders. Then you can cradle more comfortably without heavy pressure. Mastering both shielding techniques and opening up space will make you incredibly hard to stop. Dominate possession time for your team by embracing this critical but underrated fundamental skillset.

Quick Stick Handling Drills to Build Confidence

As any lacrosse player knows, having solid stick skills is essential for success on the field. The ability to cradle, pass, catch, and shoot with precision and confidence can be the difference between a big play and a turnover. While games and scrimmages are useful for developing your skills, focused stick handling drills allow you to master the fundamentals. If you’re looking to step up your lacrosse game this season, try incorporating these 15 mesh stick skill builders into your training routine.

1. One-Handed Cradling

Cradling is one of the most important fundamentals in lacrosse. It allows you to maintain possession of the ball while running down the field or looking for an open teammate. Try cradling with just your dominant hand and then switch to your off-hand. Go back and forth, focusing on keeping the ball securely in the pocket with limited movement. This drill improves wrist and arm strength while keeping the ball right where you want it.

2. Figure 8s

Weave the ball in and around your legs in a figure 8 pattern. Start slow, then work on picking up speed while maintaining control. Figure 8s help you get comfortable handling the ball in tight spaces while keeping your head up. Go between your legs, around your knees, under your arms – get creative with it! This builds dexterity and familiarity with the ball.

3. Quick Stick Passing

Pair up with a teammate and stand 5-10 yards apart. Focus on passing and catching with quick, crisp motions. Receive the ball in your stick and immediately return a pass back. Concentrate on clean exchanges using your wrists rather than arms. Quick sticks teach you to make plays under pressure when you don’t have time to wind up. Do this drill on the move as well, passing while jogging across the field.

4. Split Dodges

Set up cones or other markers in a line to act as defenders. Start with the ball in your stick and work on dodging through the line, switching hands as you weave. Picture the cones as trying to check your stick, forcing you to protect the ball. Change direction, roll, and stay low. Split dodges build dexterity while mimicking game situations.

5. Pinney Poppers

Have a teammate hold a pinney taut between their hands. Take shots aimed at the pinney, focusing on sticking the ball right in the middle. Pop that pinney! This fun drill develops quick release shooting, accuracy, and power generation. You can also practice passing to a moving target by having the pinney holder zig zag or run crossing patterns.

6. Ground Ball Sprints

Ground balls are a huge momentum swinger in lacrosse. Turnover ground balls especially can stop a transition opportunity dead in its tracks. Set up cones on opposite sides of the field and place 6-10 balls in the center. Sprint from one end to the other, scoop up all the ground balls, and run back. See how fast you can gather them all! This challenges reaction time, agility, and conditioning.

7. Backyard Wall Ball

Just like you probably did as a kid, play wall ball with a lacrosse stick. Throw the ball against a solid wall and field it on the rebound, handling with just your stick. Move around and field balls to all sides, above your head, down low by your knees. You can work on catching with quick sticks and cradling between shots. Wall ball improves reflexes, reaction time, coordination and confidence with the ball in air.

8. Cradling Through Cones

Set up a series of cones and weave through them while cradling the ball. Go over, under and around the cones in different patterns while maintaining possession. You can also have a partner lightly pressure check you as you maneuver the cones. This drill builds comfort handling the ball in tight spaces and on the move.

9. Box Handler

Designate a 5 yard by 5 yard box using cones, tape, or paint. Stay within the box and focus on stick moves like rolls, splits, and pivots. Get creative going around the box – spin, jump, crawl, etc. Keep that stick handling tight! The box contains you, working on possession and changes of direction in a small area.

10. Power Cradling

Cradle at full speed in 20-30 second bursts. Focus on gripping the ball firmly in the pocket and keeping it stable with a high hand position. Drive with your legs, pumping arms for velocity. Do a few sets, resting in between. Power cradling translates to the field by building endurance and ball control at top speeds.

11. partner checks

Take turns having a partner lightly check your stick as you cradle up and down the field. Keep your stick protected and play through the contact, concentrating on maintaining possession. Start slow and increase intensity as you progress. This drill simulates game checks and builds confidence cradling in traffic.

12. Give and go

Line up with a partner 10 yards apart. Pass the ball to your partner then cut toward the goal looking for a return feed. Work on timing and ball movement. Go to your dominant and weak hands. Vary up your cuts – straight, V-cut, roll back. The give and go is key in the lacrosse passing game. Reps build chemistry with teammates.

13. Behind the back Passing

Another partner drill – make passes to each other working behind your back. Step towards your partner, swing the stick behind your back and deliver the pass. Keep your hands in front of you for the catch. Behind the back passing requires dexterity and glove-like ball control. It translates to no-look passes in games.

14. 1 on 1 dodging

Go 1 versus 1 against a teammate or coach, working on dodges from X and behind the cage. Fight for inside leverage and practice your splits, rolls and protects. Picture yourself being guarded and react accordingly. Put together moves in combination. 1 on 1 situations happen all game, so getting comfortable attacking with the ball is huge.

15. Triangle passing

Get in a triangle with 2 other players about 10 yards apart. Move the ball quickly around the triangle with accurate passes. Switch direction periodically. Keep sticks ready and make quick feeds. You can progress to one touch passes. This drill is great for ball movement, communication and conditioning.

Mastering these stick skills through repetitions in practice will lead to better performance during games. Be creative and have fun with your training – the extra work will pay off! With improved fundamentals and confidence handling the rock, you’ll be ready to break out on the field this season.

Body Positioning to Shield the Ball from Defenders

In the fast-paced sport of lacrosse, offensive players must be able to protect the ball from defenders trying to dislodge it. Good stick skills are important, but effective body positioning is just as vital for maintaining possession and generating scoring opportunities. Whether cradling, dodging, or shooting, smart body placement gives you an edge. If you want to improve your lacrosse game, master these techniques for using your frame to shield the ball.

Low Athletic Stance

Bend your knees and get in an athletic position, keeping your center of gravity centered over your legs. This gives you maximal balance and agility to react to defenders. Stay on the balls of your feet, ready to pivot or change direction. Keep your feet shoulder-width apart and your back straight. Going low makes it harder for defenders to reach your stick.

Turn Away from Pressure

When a defender is pressuring you, turn your back to create separation. Pivot so your body is between him and the ball. Drop your shoulder and extend your arm to maximize distance. Moving the ball away from checks keeps possession.

Cradle High

When cradling, keep the ball up by your shoulder, not down by your waist. Cradling high forces defenders to reach across your body if they want to check you. They are in poor checking position. This allows you to see the field better as well.

Arm Bars

Fully extend your arm with the ball and post it straight out, forearm perpendicular to the ground. Creating an arm bar makes it almost impossible for defenders to swipe at the stick head. Swing and step away if they reach across.

Curl Over Ball

When stationary or double teamed, curl your back and shoulders overtop the ball. By sinking into a “C” shape, you protect the stick head with your core. Be patient for a chance to pass or dodge away.

Roll Away from Pressure

If a defender is swiping at your hands or stick, roll your body away to the opposite side. Spin so your hips and shoulders turn, moving the ball with you. This takes their checks out of the play while repositioning yourself.

Get Wide

Make sure to create a wide base with your feet, wider than your shoulders. This lowers your center of gravity for balance through contact. Keep knees bent and butt back. Being wide and athletic lets you absorb checks without losing ground.

Cut with Inside Arm Protected

When making cuts as a shooter, keep your inside arm tucked with elbow tight to your ribs. This shields the stick from trailing defenders trying to lift. Extend the stick to shoot or pass once open.

Box Out with Your Butt

Like in basketball, box defenders out when shielding ground balls or passes. Feel contact and sit your butt back into them, using your leg drive. Keep knees bent and abs braced. Boxing out creates space to scoop or receive passes.

Chest Passes Only

When double or triple teamed, stop trying to make stick passes. Instead, hold the ball to your chest and push pass with your hands only. This protects the ball using your body. Quick pops keep the offense flowing.

Cut at Angles

Make your cuts at 45 degree angles rather than straight lines. Cutting at angles forces trailing defenders to constantly adjust their approach, buying you time and space.

Sit into Checks

When you feel a check coming, drop your hips and “sit” into it, absorbing the contact with your legs. Keep your center balanced and use your strength to play through it. This maintains possession through wrap checks.

Regularly Switch Hands

When cradling or dodging, change hands frequently, crossing your arms over. This forces defenders to adjust their positioning and checks each time you switch. Vary your dodges to keep them guessing.

Chip Up on Shot

On quick stick shots, chop down on the ball to chip it up towards the net. Keep your top hand high and arms tucked in, using your core for power. Chipping up helps avoid low stick checks.

Step Out on Passes

Don’t wait for passes flat footed. Step toward the incoming feed to gain momentum and space from defenders on your back. Extend your stick to meet the pass.

Sharpening your ability to shield the ball with smart body positioning will make you harder to defend. Protecting your stick gives you time to make plays. Use these techniques in your next practice or game to maintain possession and control the action.

Developing Pinpoint Passing Accuracy

Completing crisp, accurate passes is fundamental for executing on offense in lacrosse. Being able to deliver the ball right on target gives your team the best chance of catching and shooting without turnover. Whether initiating fast breaks, moving the ball around, or feeding cutters, pinpoint passing is key. Use these drills to tighten your passing precision this season.

Wall Passing

Stand 5-10 yards from a solid wall and work on throwing and catching your own passes. Focus on hitting the same spot consistently using correct form – point your lead foot at the target, follow through straight towards the wall. Field the rebound cleanly. This improves accuracy, hand-eye coordination and reaction time.

Passing Ladder

Set up a ladder drill either on grass or on a tennis court. Move through the ladder continually passing the ball to your partner on the opposite side. Concentrate on hitting them right in the stick through the ladder rungs. Change directions periodically. Ladders hone in on accuracy under movement.

Over the Shoulder

With a partner, practice passing the ball over your shoulder to each other. This simulates quick outlet passes on the run up field. Work on judging angles and velocity without looking. Great for positioning and touch passing.

Step ‘n’ Feed

Line up across from a partner and focus on leading them perfectly with your passes. Take a step sideways in one direction then hit them in stride moving the other way. Read the speed of their cut and pass accordingly. Match your movement with timing of the feed.

Two-Man Passing

In a triangle with two other players, move the ball around using crisp passes. Work on quick ball movement, one-touch passing and hitting teammates on the run. Keep sticks ready with hands in proper passing position. Quickly pass to where they will be, not where they are.

Jump Passing

With a partner, take turns coming from behind and jump passing over each other’s shoulder. Leap forward to release the pass. Time your jump with their cut. Stay tight to the body and avoid reaching back. This translates to fast break outlet passes.

Box Series

Using four cones, set up a 10 yard by 10 yard box. Two partners pass the ball back and forth as they move around the box. Focus on leading your teammate and hitting them in stride. Change direction and work at game speed. Move both clockwise and counterclockwise.

Full Speed Outlet Passing

Simulate running fast breaks by sprinting down field and passing back and forth with trailers. Push to top speed and concentrate on proper mechanics and accuracy at game tempo. Practice threading passes between multiple cutters at different angles.

Pinpoint Bounce Passes

Aim small rubber bouncy balls at a mini soccer goal or targets on a wall. Master getting just the right touch to reach your target accurately. Rep out from various angles and distances. Bounce passing translates to lacrosse with soft touches.

Box rapid fire

Get in a box with 4 partners and rapidly move the ball clockwise around the group. Concentrate on quick, accurate passing and securing each catch before the next feed. Keep it moving! Go for 30-60 seconds without turnover. Rapid ball movement is key for defenses.

Fake Dodges

Add some fakes and dodges before your passes. Jab one way then feed your partner making a backdoor cut the other way. Sell your fake and hit them in stride after they read the play. Accuracy off dodges creates goals.

Defenders

Add passive defenders that provide light pressure and simulate checks. Work on passing around them with speed and precision. Move after each pass. Operate in tight quarters like a game situation. Accuracy under pressure wins games.

Full Court Sprints

Run full court sprints while passing back and forth the length of the field. Test your stamina and work on hitting a moving target at distance. Push pace and focus on technique. Conditioning and accuracy together.

Net Shooting

Practice hitting the corners of the goal with pinpoint passes. Aim for the pipes, simulated goalie holes, and top/bottom corners. Lead your partner just right for them to catch and shoot in one motion. Precision passing pays off most right in front of the cage.

Making the effort to refine your passing accuracy translates directly to facilitating offense and scoring during games. Don’t just go through the motions – lock in on hitting your targets. Complete each rep with a purpose. Sharpening this key fundamental can be the difference between winning and losing!

Perfecting the Art of the Quick Stick Shot

In the fast-paced game of lacrosse, the ability to catch and release shots in one fluid motion is a huge offensive asset. Quick stick shots keep defenses on their heels and beat goalies before they are set. Whether receiving a feed cutting across the crease or shooting off an interior pass, a snappy trigger from in tight creates goals. Mastering the art of the quick stick shot takes practice and precision. Follow these tips to add more of a lightning release to your scoring arsenal.

Receive Pass Outside the Body

Position your stick to welcome passes slightly away from your frame, with arms extended. Meeting the ball outside your core helps load your shooting motion. Receive it in your sweet spot and you’re immediately ready to stick it.

Roll Your Wrists

Focus on generating shot power from your wrists by rolling them overtop the ball on release. Keep wrists loose and catapult the top hand forward on your strike. This creates ideal ball rotation and velocity from in tight.

Follow Through Low

Completely finish your follow through with the stick head aimed low, past the opposite hip. This engages your bottom hand and upper body fully through the shot for maximum pace. Follow through every rep.

Shoot Against Rebounding Net

Practice catching your own rebounds off the net or goalie pads and immediately shooting again. Catch outside the body and fire with just one cradle. Quick sticks against active rebound simulate game bounces.

Step Towards Pass

Instead of being stagnant, take an aggressive step toward incoming passes to build momentum into your shot. Gain ground as you receive to shoot off your front foot.

Snatch and Release

Work on receiving passes with very minimal cradle – a half turn at most – before turning the corner on your shot. Focus on hand quickness to snap it off the catch. This forces you to shoot immediately off the feed.

Jump on Inside Feeds

When catching interior feeds near the crease, use your legs and jump into your shot. Rising up powers your lower body into the release. Make sure to shoot before you land.

Don’t Drop the Head

Concentrate on keeping the head up through the release, don’t drop it down. This prevents you from wrapping your arms and maintains accuracy.

Shoot Behind Passes

Instead of stopping the ball, play give and goes where you shoot directly behind passes. Running onto feeds keeps momentum rolling into quick sticks. Great for dodger interior feeds.

Work Both Hands

Catch and finish from both sides of the crease to develop dexterity shooting righty and lefty stick quickness. Vary target locations as well – corners, sidearm near pipe, overhand top shelf.

Quick Stick Contests

Challenge yourself or teammates to see who can complete the most quick stick reps perfectly in a row or in a timed period. Add competitive fun to improve focus and execution.

Shoot Against Soft Check

Have a partner or coach apply light stick pressure as you receive passes and shoot in the same motion. This accustoms you to shooting through contact at the crease.

Drive Top Hand Through

Concentrate on aggressively punching your top hand forward from a high position on the stick handle to ensure maximum velocity. This transfers arm speed to ball speed.

Quick Handle Movement

Only allow yourself minimal handle movement – a quarter to half turn maximum – before releasing your shot. Limiting cradle forces you to shoot immediately off the catch.

Vary Catch Locations

Receive passes high, low, in front and behind you to work on shooting from all angles. You never know how feeds will arrive so practice adjusting.

Perfecting quick stick shooting takes dedicated work, but it pays big dividends around the net. By mastering the catch and immediate release, you’ll convert more feeds into goals. Next time you find yourself open in close, strike like lightning!

Finding the Sweet Spot for Maximum Power on Shoots

Generating shot power is a critical skill in lacrosse. Unleashing a blistering shot makes all the difference on getting it past the goalie. While shot mechanics are important, finding the optimal impact point on the head – the sweet spot – is just as vital. Striking the ball in this precise zone transfers maximum energy for lighting fast shots. Dialing in your accuracy to connect in the sweet spot takes practice and repetition. Use these tips to locate the money zone on your stick head to add heat to your shooting game.

Start Low on the Pocket

First, determine where your lowest shooting point is on the head by cradling. Generally, this will be 1-2 diamonds up from the very bottom of the plastic. This low section will give you the most power potential.

Find the Ball Ramp

Now locate the ramp point where the head angles back out of your pocket, creating an incline up towards the scoop. You want to make contact just as the ball is about to crest over this ramp cliff.

Impact on the Ramp

Your optimal impact zone combines these two points – low on the head in your pocket ramp. Striking here as the ball ramps upwards provides ideal compression and lift.

Hand Position

To consistently hit this money spot, keep your bottom hand low on the handle near the head for control. Your top hand should be positioned high up the shaft for power.

Weight Forward

Transfer your weight from your back foot onto your front foot during the shot. This adds lower body power and helps you make solid contact in your accuracy zone.

Follow Through Down

Be sure to fully complete your follow through with the stick head finishing low, past your lead hip. This takes the stick through the sweet spot on release.

Stay Behind the Shot

Don’t reach or lunge forward on your release. Keep your motion contained so you can drive through the ball. Reaching results in glancing blows, not pure compression.

Upward Release

Imagine your shooting motion like a broad jump going up instead of forward. An upward release trajectory keeps the ball in the pocket ramp longer for max boost.

Check Your Miss Marks

Pay attention to any errant shots and note where you are impacting the head. Adjust your accuracy accordingly to dial in the money spot for power.

Tip Drills for Target Practice

Perform one-handed and tipping drills to lock in stick control. Paint just the right spot consistently for powerful placement shots.

Choke Up for Finesse

When shooting on the run or from further out, choke up on your bottom hand for more whipping finesse. Keep the top handle high and fixed for stability.

Flex the Stick on Follow Through

Allow your stick to fully flex and bend forward on your follow through to absorb the shot energy. This catapults the ball off the sweet spot.

Hand Speed on Release

Concentrate on achieving maximum top hand speed going forward through the release. Move your hand at lightning pace for power transference.

Trust Your Accuracy

Have confidence in your precision hitting the optimal impact point and don’t overthink it. You’ll naturally find the sweet spot through repetition.

Dialing in the right impact spot for your stick takes experimentation and focused practice. But once mastered, connecting in the power zone will add serious heat to your shooting game. Break that goalie’s wrists this season!

Maximizing Ball Control with Proper Stick Stringing

Having the right pocket and stringing set-up on your lacrosse stick is crucial for optimum ball control. A well-strung pocket helps you securely cradle, catch consistently, and shoot with precision. The pattern and techniques used to lace the head can make all the difference. While stick skills are important, dialing in your stringing will take your fundamentals to the next level. Use these stringing keys to maximize possession through optimized ball control.

Mid to High Pocket

String your mesh to create a mid to high pocket, about halfway down the head. This gives you more cushioning to contain the ball and makes it easier to protect your stick.

Shooting Strings

Add nylon shooting strings horizontally across the top of the upper third of the head. These help grip and control the ball on passes and shots, creating extra feel.

Diamond Top String

String your top string in an interlocking diamond pattern across the scoop instead of straight across. The diamond patterning keeps the channel narrow for improved control cradling.

runner Sidewall Strings

Lace doubled up sidewall string tracks on each side from the scoop halfway down the head. Sidewalls give you adjustment options and add stability to the channel.

Defensive Mid-Pocket

For defensive sticks, use a slightly lower mid pocket placement for protection while poking checks. More ball coverage makes it harder to dislodge.

Mesh Style

Choose a soft, broken-in mesh material for optimal cushioning around the ball. Softer meshes mold around the ball better. Hard meshes cause erratic rebounds.

Channel Width

Aim for a channel width of 1.5-2 balls wide. Too narrow and the ball will wedge, too wide and it rattles around. Proper width keeps the ball centered.

Pocket Depth

Set the pocket depth to mid-level so the ball rests just above the bottom plastic when cradling. Too shallow and cradling control suffers. Too deep and quick releases become hard.

Towel Pull Tests

After stringing, test pocket depth and ball hold by pulling a towel through the channel. It should provide consistent resistance without letting the towel simply fall through.

Shooter Adjustments

Make small adjustments using additional shooter strings to fine tune your preferred hold and release. Personalize your ideal whip and accuracy.

Practice Catching

Log reps catching different pass types – bounce passes, over the shoulder feeds, hot one-timers, etc. Ensure your pocket flows smoothly with clean connections.

Cradling Control

Cradle aggressively at game speed while making cuts and dodges. The ball should sit snugly in the pocket under g-forces without rattling around.

Quick Stick Shooting

Test pocket performance by catching passes from various angles and immediately shooting in one motion. Tuning the channel helps accuracy.

Ball Retention on Checks

Have a teammate or coach simulate checks while you cradle. Your stringing should help keep the ball secure during contact.

Dialing in your personalized pocket takes time and testing. But optimized stringing pays huge dividends in on-field performance. Take your fundamentals to the next level this season with enhanced ball control!

Going Low on Ground Balls to Gain Possession

Ground balls are one of the most important fundamentals in lacrosse. Winning loose balls gives your team extra possessions and scoring chances. While stick skills are key for scooping, body positioning is equally vital. Mastering the technique of getting low to gain leverage on ground balls can give you a big edge. Whether caused by errant passes, checks, or shot rebounds, staying low to scoop beats opponents to the ball. Use these tips to improve your ground ball game.

Drop Hips and Flex Knees

As soon as you see a ground ball become available, drop your center of gravity by lowering your hips and bending your knees. Get athletic into a crouched “ready” position.

Sit Back on Your Heels

While low, sit your weight back onto your heels to load power into your legs. This helps explode forward when pursuing the ball.

Keep Feet Wider Than Shoulders

Widen your base with feet set outside shoulder width. This improves lateral stability for reacting while protecting the stick.

Load Hands Out Front

Extend your stick hand out in the direction you intend to scoop with top hand ready to pounce. Keep lead elbow pointed down for leverage.

Look Through Your Head

Pick out the ball early and watch it all the way into your crosse with your eyes, don’t take them off it. Use your vision to track and coordinate your scoop.

Drive Legs Through Contact

Expect contact fighting for the ball. Drive forward through it by powering legs and keeping your stick locked. Use body mass and strength to maintain possession.

Keep Stick Low

Hold your bottom hand down at knee to shin height as you approach ground balls. This keeps the stick head below opponents sticks for inside leverage.

Get Nose Over the Ball

Just like a football linebacker, get your nose directly over the ball before you scoop. This centers your mass for best positioning.

Box Out Opponents

Physically box out opponents by sitting your hips back into them. Feel contact and rotate your shoulder across to seal them from the ball.

Shield Ground Balls

Once scooped, cover the ball by cradling it to the ear side of your body, then turn away. Use your frame to protect possession.

Quickly Transition Upfield

Immediately look upfield after securing ground balls and run or pass ahead. Quick ball movement creates fast break chances.

Leave Your Feet

If needed, lay out horizontal and extend fully to get your stick on loose balls. Diving shows all out hustle!

Focusing on body position and leverage is just as important as stick skills on ground balls. Staying low and driving legs gives you a physical advantage to gain possession. Own the ground this season!

Executing Aggressive But Legal Stick Checks

Delivering effective stick checks is an integral defensive skill in lacrosse. Disrupting offensive players’ sticks helps create turnovers and regain possession. While being aggressive can gain an advantage, avoiding fouls is critical. Mastering the art of hard but controlled legal checking requires precision technique. Time your checks right, target specific zones, and maintain discipline – bring the lumber within the rules! Apply these pointers to add tenacious yet clean defense to your game.

Hands Together

Keep both hands together at the base of your stick head when initiating checks. This provides maximum control and power through contact.

Avoid Hands

Focus checks on the opponent’s stick head and shaft only. Never make contact with their gloved hands to prevent slashing calls.

Swing Through

Keep your stick motion swinging through on checks instead of jabbing. Follow through the stick to dislodge rather than stabbing downward at ball.

Poke From Below

When lift checking, poke upward underneath their bottom hand for best leverage. This lets you drive their stick up and away from the ball’s sweet spot.

Time off Cradle

Initiate checks immediately after opponents switch hand directions during a cradle. Hitting sticks mid-cradle is ideal for disruption.

Stay Balanced

Keep your feet staggered and weight centered over your hips. This allows you to absorb contact without reaching.

Aim For Plastic

Target your checks high on the head and sidewall plastic for optimal effect. Impacting their bottom hand or shaft dissipates energy.

Shield Your Checks

After checking, rotate your body to shield your stick from retaliation slashes. Protect yourself while staying aggressive.

Release and Re-Engage

Check then quickly disengage before re-applying pressure. This avoids holding fouls while maintaining disruption.

Check Hands Together

When lift checking, have a teammate check the stick near the head in unison. Coordinate simultaneous lift checks for greater impact.

Push and Give Space

After dislodging with check, keep stick extended briefly to maintain separation. Don’t allow immediate re-cradling.

Check Through Hands

Wind up checks starting low and drive upward through their bottom hand on release. This adds momentum through contact.

Run Through Checks

Build up speed to gain momentum on checks. Make contact on the run then push through the stick without reaching.

Stay Controlled

Resist the urge to wildly hack or flail sticks. Remain composed through your check’s motion and contact.

Applying these techniques will make your defense more disruptive while avoiding penalties. Time checks well and stay under control through contact. Dominate possession with hard, clean checks!

Quick Footwork to Create Space from Defenders

In the congested setting of a lacrosse field, offensive players must be able to effectively create separation from defenders. Superior footwork and coordinated movement sets up scoring opportunities. Whether trying to shed a ride, lose a defender dodging, or get open for a feed, quick feet provide an edge. Mastering a few go-to agility moves and combining them fluently allows you to generate space. Implement these essential footwork techniques to ditch defenders with your fleetness this season.

Burst Out of Cuts

Explode out of cuts with powerful first steps to beat defenders to the spot. Transfer weight into your drive step to propel motion. Fast acceleration creates early leverage.

Fast Feet on Cradles

When cradling, stay active trading short choppy footwork steps to keep defenders off balance. Vary speed and direction.

Jump Stops

Plant hard and jump stop quickly to change pace or create hesitation. This forces defenders to backpedal or stop moving their feet.

Get Low on Jukes

Drop your hips and load your calves when making jump cuts to juke defenders. Staying low maintains power and balance.

Sell Fakes

Exaggerate head, shoulder, and hip fakes before making your actual cut. This freezes defenders, causing them to false step.

Roll Back

Create space by pivoting backwards, rolling the ball across your face. Spin off pressure and attack the opposite direction.

Crossovers For Separation

Crisply crossover your feet to build momentum with acceleration. Cross direction to throw off pursuit angles.

V Cuts

Sharply plant and pivot into V cuts. The change of angle creates extra separation from hip-to-hip defenders.

Scissors on Dodges

Incorporate lateral scissor-like steps on your dodges to the crease. This maintains space while protecting your stick.

Feint Steps

Incorporate fake stutter steps and false plants to keep defenders guessing. Quickly abort your fake and attack the opposite way.

Tight Cuts Across the Grain

Make sharp diagonal cuts at 45 degree angles across the field instead of straight lines. Keeps defenders trailing.

Stop and Go

Speed dodge forward then slam feet down into a quick stop. Explode back the other way as defender skates past you.

Great footwork creates time and opportunities on offense. Master these agility techniques through deliberate practice. Develop quick feet and fluid movements this off-season to lose defenders!

Faking Out the Goalie with Deceptive Stick Moves

Scoring goals in lacrosse often requires outmaneuvering the goalie. Shooting accurately is important, but deception and stick fakes make the difference in tight situations. Mixing in creative fakes, shot pumps, hesitations and misdirections causes goalies to commit early or freeze. Mastering a repertoire of deceiving stick moves lets you toy with goalie reaction times. Keep netminders guessing wrong with these techniques for faking out between the pipes.

Quick Stick Roll Back

Act like receiving a pass but quickly roll the stick backwards across your shoulders. This briefly hides the ball for a deceptive release.

Behind the Back Knee Pop

Cradle the ball behind your back with one hand then pop it above the opposite knee for a hidden shot.

Pump Fake Sidearm

Wind up like shooting side arm then stop and cradle. Brings goalie hands down prematurely.

Hesitation Shot

Plant like shooting then hesitate before stepping into your real shot. Disrupts timing and causes early reactions.

Stutter Step

Add a stutter step during your dodge before shooting. This throws off goalie preparedness and balance.

No-Look Over the Shoulder

Look opposite where you intend to shoot then turn back and release. Surprise catches goalies leaning.

Change Plane and Location

Go low after showing high and shoot opposite corners unexpectedly. Vary locations and trajectories.

Shoot Behind Feed

Act like passing across the crease but shoot behind your feed motion. Disguises your release.

Quick Stick Fake Feed

Fake a quick pass to the crease then shoot. Drags goalie attention away from you.

Fake Dip and Shoot High

Pump fake low as if shooting on the run then shoot high. Manipulates goalie prep and footwork.

Roll the Pipes

Hit the goal posts intentionally to either side, then capitalize shooting opposite way on the rebound.

Shoulder and Hip Fakes

Exaggerate your upper body fakes before shooting. Makes goalies commit their mass the wrong way.

Freezing goalies even for split seconds can create open shooting lanes. Practice selling your fakes and deception. Toy with goalie minds by developing creative stick trickery this off-season!

Catching Difficult Passess to Maintain Offensive Possession

Completing difficult receptions is essential for maintaining offensive possessions and scoring chances. Whether caused by pressure, errant throws, or mingling sticks, not every pass arrives perfectly. Adjusting your hands and footwork to securely catch less-than-ideal feeds keeps the offense flowing. Tough catches require quick reactions, coordination, and focus. Become your team’s security blanket with these techniques for snagging difficult passes.

Extend Your Reach

Fully extend your arms and stick to expand your catch radius on off-target throws. Stretch to intercept passes before they sail out of reach.

Follow With Your Hands

Keep your hands active and ready to chase poor passes. Don’t wait for it; track the ball’s flight to meet it.

Look It All the Way In

Intensely watch the pass from release, through the air, and into your stick pocket. Let your eyes pull passes in.

Move Your Feet

Instead of reaching, quickly reposition your feet under off-line feeds using adjustment steps. Get your body behind the ball.

Get Your Stick Up

Elevate your stick to give yourself a larger vertical catching window on high or low passes. Adjust your angles.

Absorb the Impact

On hard, off-target throws, flex your arms and loosen your grip to cushion the catch. Soften the impact by giving with it.

Box Out Defenders

Feel for defenders and use your hips to box them out, creating space to cleanly catch passes in traffic.

Expect the Bounce Pass

Lower expectations for clean catches and be ready to block bouncing feeds. Keep your stick head down scooping low passes.

Meet the Pass

When trailing on fast breaks, sprint to meet outlet passes instead of waiting. Pick up momentum to aid timing and hands.

Watch the Passer’s Eyes

Pick up visual cues from their eyes to get a jump on errant pass directions. Anticipate where they are aiming.

Cradle on Contact

If juggling contested catches, immediately cradle away and turn from pressure. Secure before attempting to pass again.

Becoming a reliable receiver of imperfect passes will make you a quarterback’s best friend. Work on adjusting your hands and feet this off-season to extend your catching range. Secure the rock!

Developing Chemistry with Teammates Through Passing Drills

Effective passing requires synchronization and chemistry between teammates. Knowing each other’s tendencies, speeds, and angles takes time. Completing repetitive passing drills builds familiarity between players, creating timing and team cohesion. Whether running set plays or improvising on the fly, being on the same wavelength pays dividends. Foster team chemistry this offseason using these partner and group passing exercises.

Two-Man Rapid Passing

Stand 5 yards apart rapidly passing back and forth, alternating catch and immediate return pass. Focus on speed, timing, and handling without fumbling. Builds chemistry through repetitions.

Triangles

Perform 3-man passing with triangle cuts, timing leads and sharp exchanges. Rotate positions frequently to understand each role. Quick ball movement develops chemistry.

Full Speed Transition Drills

Sprint up field passing ahead to lead cutters then trailing back as outlets. Simulates fast break chemistry at game tempo.

Over the Shoulder Outlet Passing

Run up field and work on connecting with outlets over your shoulder without looking. Timing and trust are key.

Four Corners

Form a box with your team, numbering corners 1-4. Coach calls out sequences to pass through in order. Stresses anticipation & communication.

Defender Reactions

Place passive defenders in passing lanes. Work on ball movement, timing and location to circumnavigate pressure.

Step ‘n’ Pass

Take false steps in one direction before moving opposite way for the return pass. Sell fakes then connect off timing.

No Turn Possession

Move the ball around the perimeter without allowing it back to passer. Work off-ball player movement into seams.

Six-Box Weave

Using cones, make a tic-tac-toe board on the field for dynamic passing & cutting. Unscripted collaboration builds familiarity.

Odd Man Breaks

Simulate fast odd-man situations like 3v2 or 2v1. Repeat moving ball under pressure. Speed and precision.

Sandwich Drills

Cache a passer between two teammates for rapid triangle ball exchanges. Sync passing rhythms and anticipation.

Dedicate practice time to passing chemistry drills as a team. Familiarity breeds cohesion on the field. Develop intricate passing combos through deliberate reps!

Improving Shooting Accuracy with Repetition

Nothing builds accurate shooting technique better than deliberate practice. Dialing in your shooting precision requires quality reps and forming muscle memory. Whether it’s mechanics, footwork or stick skills, repetition engrains proper form. Taking enough shots over time also builds confidence in your shot. Become a feared sniper this off-season by dedicating time to sharpening accuracy through repetitive shooting drills.

Shoot Against Walls

Practice hitting the same spots on a solid wall repeatedly from different angles – high, low, side arm. Groove consistency.

Dot Shooting

Place dots or other markers on the goal at different locations. Focus on hitting your targets through repetition.

Accuracy Contests

Challenge yourself or teammates on accuracy feats – most goals in a row, first to 10, shots on the run, etc. Add competition and focus.

Shooting on Passing

Incorporate shooting on passes to diversify looks. One-time catches into shots builds repetitive precision.

Rebound Shooting

Take shots then immediately corral rebounds and shoot again without hesitation. Mimics game scenarios.

Follow Your Miss Marks

Observe where missed shots impact the net and adjust your aim accordingly each rep. Dial in accuracy.

Shoot Moving Shooting

Practice shots on the run and from cuts to duplicte shooting under pressure. Groove technique at game speed.

Reduce Distance

Start close range and move back with comfort. Shorter distances build confidence then extend.

Change Release Points

Vary shooting high, side arm, underhand, behind the head, etc. Mastery requires accuracy from any release.

Focus on Form

Lock in on proper mechanics – hands, elbows, shoulders, stepping into shots. Repetition engrains muscle memory.

Shoot Without Thinking

Let your subconscious takeover through repetitive practice. Gain trust to shoot instinctively in tight moments.

They say repetition is the father of learning. Dedicate time each practice to repeating quality shooting reps. Ingrain the touch and precision to finish confidently in crunch time!

Mastering the Art of Cradling and Running at Top Speed

In the fast break nature of lacrosse, advancing the ball downfield requires sprinting while cradling. Pushing transition pace while maintaining control gives teams a huge edge. Mastering the skill of cradling in stride builds transition confidence. Protecting the ball while running all-out tests hand-eye coordination. Dial in your top end cradling this offseason using these speed cradling tips.

Head Up Sprinting Form

Drive legs aggressively while maintaining good sprinting posture – slight forward lean, arms pumping, head up. Don’t compromise mechanics.

Cradle High

When sprinting, keep the stick cradled high near your ear with elbow tight to body. This shields the ball while allowing arm pumps.

One-Handed at Top Speed

Once at full velocity, try cradling with just your dominant hand for increased difficulty. Keep the ball to the ear side.

Control Cradle Motion

Focus on making short, compact cradles instead of elongated wind-ups. Smaller motions control the ball better at high speeds.

Modify Arm Swing

Allow your bottom arm to naturally hang while top arm cradles and pumps normally. This stabilizes the ball.

Accelerated Footwork

Incorporate lateral jumps, crossovers, and agility moves while cradling at speed. Mash the gas through direction changes.

Add Defensive Pressure

Have teammates run with you applying light checks and contact. Learn to run through it smoothly.

Sit Lower in Stance

Run more crouched over with knees bent to improve balance through contact at full gallop.

Head Positioning

While upright, turn your head slightly away from cradling hand. Allows better vision of the ball.

Reset Hands on Turns

When changing fields, briefly secure ball with two hands to reset position before accelerating again.

Explosive Starts

Practice faster get-offs after cradling stops. Drive off your back foot to hit top speed quickly.

Cradling confidently while at top speed is a difference making skill. Put in the work this off-season to master control and security at full throttle. Push transition pace!