Get to Know the Warrior Evo Warp Lacrosse Stick
If you want to improve your box lacrosse game, having the right stick is key. The Warrior Evo Warp Pro is one of the most popular box lacrosse sticks on the market for good reason. This lightweight yet durable head provides excellent ball control and quick releases perfect for the tight confines of box lacrosse. But simply having the Evo Warp isn’t enough – you need to know how to string it, handle it, and utilize it to its full potential. Read on for 15 must-know tricks to master box lacrosse with the Warrior Evo Warp Pro.
The Evo WarpPro head has a narrow, hourglass style sidewall that gives players superior ball control. It has a mid-to-mid-low pocket placement that cradles easily while allowing for precise passing and shooting. The head comes in a few flex options so players can choose the stiffness level that matches their playing style and strength. Stiffer heads hold their shape better for more power while flexible heads offer more finesse. Stringing the head properly is key – a good pocket improves handling drastically. A pocket that’s too loose or too tight will hinder your performance. Most players like a mid-pocket with four straight leathers and one or two shooters for optimal ball control. You can tweak the pocket based on your preferences.
Once you have the right head and stringing, it’s time to practice. Box lacrosse moves much faster than field lacrosse so improving your stick skills is vital. Work on quick sticks where you catch and release the ball as fast as possible. Do this while stationary but also on the run. Mastering quick sticks helps significantly with ball control. Also practice snapping off fast shots. Due to the close quarters in box lacrosse, you need to release shots rapidly before defenders crowd you. Set up cones as defenders and work on shooting around them with your Evo Warp. Pay attention to your arms, wrists, and mechanics to optimize shot power.
Dodging is another key skill for box lacrosse. With less room than on a field, dodges need to be quick and concise. Practice various rolls and cutbacks with your Evo Warp, focusing on protecting your stick while swiftly changing direction. Work on selling your fakes too – a good head fake or juke can freeze defenders, opening space for you to dodge. Mastering an overhand shot is also vital for finishing around the crease when defenders swarm you. It’s tougher to generate power for overhands, so drill your shooting motion until it feels natural.
Box lacrosse requires you to handle your stick well in traffic. Set up cones or stand close to a wall and practice scooping ground balls cleanly while retaining possession. Also work on poke checking – being able to accurately swipe at the ball when pressured. Ask a teammate or friend to run dodging drills with you and focus on controlling their stick via precise poke checks. Protecting your stick is equally important. Keep it close to your body and covered when battling for ground balls to prevent dislodgement.
While stick skills are crucial, box lacrosse heavily emphasizes teamwork. Communication with teammates is vital for working the ball around defenders in tight spaces. Practice passing back and forth rapidly while communicating next moves and open space. Work on two-man games around the crease and quick give-and-go’s to move the ball under pressure. Defending as a cohesive unit is also key. Maintain good footwork and positioning to force opponents into turnovers without overcommitting.
When pressured defensively, focus on making smart outlet passes to start fast transitions. Look for cutters actively working to get open rather than trying to force bad passes. Maintaining composure is equally important so you don’t throw the ball away or take low percentage shots. Lacrosse moves fast, so see the whole field and make smart decisions with your Evo Warp. Mastering these 15 tricks will elevate your box lacrosse game drastically. But never forget fundamentals like stick protection, scooping, cradling, and catching – they make executing advanced techniques possible.
The Warrior Evo Warp Pro puts unmatched ball control at your fingertips. Combine its capabilities with dedicated practice and immersion in box lacrosse gameplay. Work on handling, shooting, dodging, passing, catching, and awareness drills daily to hone your skills. Scrimmage often in the tight confines of a box lacrosse-style field. Master the intricacies that make box lacrosse a faster, tougher game than field lacrosse. With your skills and the Evo Warp Pro in hand, you’ll be prepared to excel when that first whistle blows.
Choose the Right Head Size and Flex for Your Style
One of the best things about the Warrior Evo Warp Pro is the ability to customize it to your personal playing style. This versatile head comes in a range of flex options and head sizes so you can dial it in based on your needs and preferences on the box lacrosse floor. Choosing the right combination of flex and size for you is crucial to maximizing your performance.
Let’s start with head size – the Evo Warp Pro comes in widths of 4, 4.5, and 5 inches. Narrower heads are quicker and more precise while wider heads offer more ball retention and control. For box lacrosse, 4-4.5 inches tends to be ideal for most players. Defenders and transition players may opt for more narrow heads for added speed whereas attackers opt for slightly wider heads for cradling in traffic. Consider your position and needs – narrower if you value fast reaction times and wider for superior control.
Now for flex – stiffer heads hold their shape for added durability and increased passing/shooting power. More flexible heads provide more finesse moves, quick releases, and improved scooping. Box lacrosse emphasizes ball control and quick decision making, so most players like a medium-flex head. This balances both stiffness for power and flexibility for ball handling. However, stronger players may prefer a stiff flex while smaller, quicker players benefit from more whip.
A good way to choose is to think about how you want to release the ball. Stiffer flex is best for ripping harder, longer passes and shots. The head will impart more energy transfer for velocity. Flexible whips better for quick sticks, tight feeds, and rolls to the crease. The ball pops off faster with less windup. For most box style play, err on the side of more flexibility for quicker reflexes.
Beyond your position and style, also consider if you want to reinforce your strengths or improve weaknesses. More stiffness can help compensate for lack of strength while more flex aids smaller players in generating velocity despite less mass. If you want to double-down on finesse, go more flexible – for brute power, stiffen it up.
While testing different flexes and sizes, pay attention to how the ball releases, your handle time, and the head’s durability. Ensure the flex matches your overall strength level – forcing a stiff head to whip if you lack power may over-flex the head. Find the sweet spot tailored to you. With box lacrosse’s tight confines and constant contact, you need a head tuned for quick, controlled play while retaining its shape.
Dialing in the perfect combo takes experimentation. Start with a medium flex in a 4-4.5 inch width then tweak from there. Consult your coaches and technicians too for guidance based on your abilities. An ideal head amplifies your skills rather than fighting against them. With the right Evo Warp Pro tailored to your game, you’ll reach new heights on the box lacrosse floor.
String Up Your Stick for Maximum Ball Control
You chose the perfect Evo Warp Pro head size and flex for your game – now it’s time to string it up for superior performance. Proper stringing takes your Evo Warp from a good head to a great one tuned for your box lacrosse needs. With the right pocket and stringing style, you’ll have the ball handling and control needed to dominate inside the confines.
For box lacrosse, focus on a mid to mid-low pocket placement. This improves control while still allowing for power when needed. A pocket too high will hinder quick sticks and feeds in traffic. Too low and you lose some velocity on passes and shots. Mid-placement pockets are a nice balance, especially if paired with a straight shooter.
Use four nylon leathers to create defined channel walls. This helps the ball sit deep into the head but not too deep. Consider adding one or two shooters for even more control and hold. Hard mesh can work too but many box players prefer the feel of leathers or soft mesh. This increases finesse play, catches, and quicker releases.
For your sidewall stringing, opt for double interlocks or a variant like the 1-1 lax diamond. The interlocks pull the mesh inward, deepening the pocket more. This helps secure the ball while retaining quickness for tight feeds and sticks. Traditional box style sidewalls utilize anchor knots and single straights that direct mesh outwards – avoid this for maximum control.
Consider adding some nylon to the sidewall interlocks too. This will allow the pocket to break in faster while retaining that control-focused channel shape longer term. You can also experiment with U-strings or other shooting string styles but start simple – you can always add complexity later.
Work closely with your stringer to get the pocket and channel shape right where you want it. Bring the head strung up to about 75% tension then break it in with wall ball sessions to get the ideal release and hold. Keep an eye on the pocket shape as it breaks in to ensure it stays centralized without collapsing or shifting too much. You may need to tweak the pattern periodically to retain that sweet spot pocket.
Proper stringing paired with the Evo Warp Pro transforms it into an extension of your hand with the ball. You’ll notice cleaner catches, improved cradle, faster feeds, and better shooting accuracy. Take the time to string it up right and you’ll have far greater control of every possession. That control is vital with box lacrosse’s tight spaces and constant pressure. Master stringing your Evo Warp and you’ll play like a wizard inside the box.
Practice Quick Sticks to Improve Handling
As any seasoned box lacrosse player knows, mastering the art of the poke check is crucial for defensemen. Being able to swiftly and accurately knock the ball loose from an attacker’s stick gives your team the opportunity to gain possession and start a fast break the other way. But poke checking, especially against the quickest and most skilled offensive players, is much easier said than done.
That’s where focused practice with box lacrosse training drills comes in. Repeatedly mimicking in-game situations during drills builds muscle memory so reactions become almost automatic. Deliberate training also improves hand-eye coordination essential for perfectly timed poke checks. With enough quality reps, poke check accuracy dramatically improves.
Of course, having the right box lacrosse stick is also key. For defensemen looking to upgrade their poke check game, the Warrior Evo Warp Pro is an excellent choice. The Evo Warp Pro has an ideally shaped head with a nice pinch and defined sidewalls ideal for cleanly dislodging the ball. It also features a narrow, elongated throat tuned for lightning quick poke check reactions. Defensemen who train hard with the Evo Warp Pro in hand will notice their poke accuracy steadily improving.
Box Lacrosse Poke Check Training Tips
Implementing the following tips and drills during box lacrosse training sessions will help players master the art of the poke check:
- Use visualization techniques: Picture perfect poke check form and imagine executing it successfully in game situations.
- Start slowly: Begin drills at half speed focusing on proper footwork and hand positioning.
- Increase speed: Once poke check form is engrained, gradually pick up the pace to match game speed.
- Practice from multiple angles: Poke check from straight on, from the side, and at various body angles.
- Use ball machines: Dial in passes to precisely mimic passes from behind, beside or in front of the player.
- React to dummy dodges: Have a partner carry the ball and make evasive moves to practice reacting and poke checking on the fly.
- Overplay hands: Work on poke checking strong-hand and weak-hand carries using proper footwork and hand positioning.
Incorporating thosetraining techniques into the following five drills at regular practice sessions will help take poke check skills to the next level.
1. Mirror Poke Checking
This simple poke check drill develops quick hands and reaction time. Players partner up and stand 1-2 yards apart. One player initiates a poke check and their partner reacts simultaneously with the exact same poke check motion, like mirror images. Focus on explosiveness from ready position to execution. Repeat poke check motions starting with downward pokes, then upward pokes. Switch partners often.
2. Poke Check Combat
In this competitive reactionary drill, partners stand across from each other with a ball on the ground between them. On the coach’s cue, both players go after the ball and attempt to poke it back behind their partner. This engages quick reacting and reflexive poke checking needed in game situations. Players must execute clean pokes on the ball, not their opponent’s stick. Rotate partners frequently.
3. Rapid Fire Poke Checking
The goal of this challenging drill is improving poke check targeting accuracy under fire. Position two cones about 8 yards apart. Each player hustles back and forth between the cones while a partner stands at midfield and rapid fires overhand passes at their feet and stick. Defenders must attempt to poke check each pass, working on quickly reacting and targeting incoming passes effectively.
4. Poke and Recover Drill
Maintaining solid defensive positioning after poke checks is also vital. In this drill, the first defender shuffle-steps laterally while their partner dodges straight at them. When in range, the defender executes a firm poke check then immediately recovers defensive positioning. Checkers focus on balance, footwork, and recovery angles after checking. Dodger provides realistic fakes, shifts and dips.
5. Angled Approach Poke Check Drill
Finally, poke checking dodging offensive players requires varied angles and approaches. For this drill, the dodger runs diagonally across the box while the defender approaches from an extreme side angle. Defenders gauge proper timing and execute an explosive low-to-high poke check. Checkers work on quick direction changes and angled approach timing. Complete the drill poke checking with both hands.
With consistent practice and intention, box lacrosse players can markedly sharpen their poke check accuracy and reaction time. But players can only reach their true poke check potential with dedication to honing the craft. By mastering these specialized box lacrosse training drills, defensemen gain a major advantage guarding against top offensive threats. Remember that solid fundamentals and technical skills will always prevail on the floor or field. Keep working hard and that elusive ball will be yours for the taking in clutch game situations. Just as the old school coaches used to say, a takeaway is better than any goal scored.
Scoop Ground Balls Cleanly Every Time
For box lacrosse players, having the skills to scoop up those ground balls cleanly is a must. When the ball hits the floor in the tight confines of the box, you need to be able to gain possession quickly. With all the traffic around the loose ball, getting low and scooping through is critical. The key is using the right technique along with having a lacrosse stick optimized for box lacrosse. Enter the Warrior Evo Warp Pro, one of the top box lacrosse heads on the market.
In box lacrosse, ground balls are everywhere. Possession changes hands rapidly with all the stick checks, body contact, errant passes, and shots ringing off the pipes. If you want to get an edge on your opponents, consistently scooping up those grounders is a difference maker. Mastering a few key techniques along with using a box lacrosse-focused head like the Evo Warp Pro will have you gaining possession more often than not.
Get Low
When the ball hits the floor, you need to get your body low to put yourself in the best position. Keep your knees bent, back straight, and butt out as you approach the ground ball. This athletic stance will give you better leverage to rake through the ball effectively. Coming in too high will make it easier to get stood up by an opponent.
Box Out
Treat a ground ball like a box out in basketball. When tracking to the ground ball, use your free arm to ward off defenders. Box them out by initiating contact first and carving out space for yourself. Keep your arm extended and use your strength to keep their sticks and bodies away, giving you room to operate.
Scoop Through
Once in position, punch the head of your stick right through the ball aggressively. Keep your top hand out in front and drive through from back to front with the bottom hand. This scooping motion helps lift the ball off the floor and into your pocket. Scoop through with authority and the ball will stick right in the mesh.
Protect Stick
After scooping up the ground ball, pull your stick back into your body quickly. This protects possession by keeping the ball and stick safe from checks. With the ball centered in your mesh, tuck your elbows in tight and turn your body sideways. Use your back and shoulders to shield the stick from contact. Now you can look to pass or drive to goal.
Master the Evo
Having the right lacrosse stick built for box lacrosse like the Warrior Evo Warp Pro will maximize your scooping effectiveness. The Evo features a narrow, pinched head design perfect for picking ground balls off the tight confines of the floor. The head flexes on contact, absorbing impact while retaining its shape.
The soft mesh pocket holds the ball securely while allowing for excellent feel and control. Warrior’s Warp technology adds extra support and stability between the plastic head and mesh pocket. This unique system helps the head cradle shots and passes smoothly while retaining its pocket shape.
With excellent ground ball and face-off performance, the Evo Warp Pro gives box players an ideal stick for possession play. The technology amplifies ground ball effectiveness while the pinched profile is perfect for protecting sticks in traffic. If you want to gain an edge at snagging grounders, the Evo is one of the top options out there.
Work Both Sides
When tracking ground balls, make sure you can effectively scoop from all angles. Box lacrosse requires picking up grounders while moving in every direction. Work on your scooping approaching from your strong and weak side.
Drive the bottom hand and get under the ball, no matter the angle. Scoop through the ball aggressively and protect your stick quickly after securing possession. Your ability to gain ground balls from all directions will make a big difference in contested situations.
Practice Scooping Through Contact
Since ground balls often occur in traffic, practicing picking them up through contact is key. Have a partner or coach simulate pressure as you scoop by light stick checking and body contact. This will prepare you for the chaotic situations during live game action.
Maintain good technique and drive hard through the ball, even with a defender on you. Absorb any contact while powering through with your bottom hand. Keep your stick and body protected while maintaining ball control. Battling through scrums for grounders will translate directly to the field.
Develop Fast Footwork
Quickness to a ground ball is crucial for beating out opponents in tight spaces. Develop fast footwork by working agility drills like ladder circuits. Laterally explode in and out of each ladder rung, keeping on the balls of your feet. Having explosive starts and direction changes will give you an advantage getting to grounders.
Also work on change of direction by having a partner point left or right randomly as you sprint. Chop your feet and drop your hips to stop and change direction as fast as possible. Game-speed footwork will help you win ground ball races.
Lift and Split
When scooped ground balls sit in the throat of your stick, use the lift and split technique. As you gain possession, immediately clamp down and pinch the ball in place with your bottom hand. Now lift the head up vertically to shift the ball into the pocket. Once there, give a hard split with your hands to center it in the mesh.
This quick stick movement gets the ball deeper into your pocket quickly for protection. Having the lift and split in your arsenal will help smooth out rocky scoops and secure possession.
Explode Out of Scoops
Once securing the ground ball, explode out of the scoop right away. Accelerate as you gain possession to beat defenders before they can react. Drive toward open space or towards the goal to put immediate pressure on the defense.
Catching the ball cleanly allows you to transition right into your dodge. Defenders will be backpedaling if you come out of scoops at full speed. Keep them on their heels by exploding out of ground balls with authority.
Ground Ball Competitions
Practice your ground ball skills with scooping competitions. Have players line up across from rolled balls and race to gain possession cleanly. You can add extra competition by having a second wave attempt to check them immediately after scooping.
Stay low through contact and see how quickly you can transition into a dodge or pass after securing the ball. The live competition will sharpen your reaction time and scooping technique.
Gaining possession off the floor is a constant battle in box lacrosse. Mastering ground ball skills like proper technique, boxing out, and explosive footwork will help you control the critical possession game. With the Evo Warp Pro giving you an optimized head for picking grounders, you’ll be ready to scoop everything that hits the floor.
Protect Your Stick When Battling for Loose Balls
In the fast-paced, physical game of box lacrosse, loose balls are constantly up for grabs. Battling for possession on the concrete floor with opponents all around requires mastering stick protection techniques. Shielding your stick properly after snagging a ground ball is vital for maintaining control and initiating the transition game. Having the ideal box lacrosse head like the Warrior Evo Warp Pro gives you an advantage, but coupling it with sound stick protection skills is key.
Box lacrosse is all about possession. Ground balls, caused turnovers, and battles in the corners decide games. In the chaos of live-ball play, shielding your stick effectively after securing a grounder or forced turnover is critical. Here are some keys to protecting your stick while battling for those 50/50 loose balls in box lacrosse:
Tuck In Your Elbows
Once a ground ball or pass is in your pocket, instantly tuck your elbows into your core. This reduces the exposure of your stick for checks. Keeping those elbows tight shields the entire stick head and shaft from contact. Limiting stick exposure protects possession in traffic.
Rotate Your Body
As you tuck your elbows, also rotate your body sideways or backwards away from approaching defenders. Give them only your back and shoulders to check, not an open stick. Pivoting your frame shields the stick while putting your body in position to absorb incidental contact.
Box Out Opponents
Like securing a rebound in basketball, box out opponents from your stick after gaining possession. Feel their location and use your arms, rear, and hips to impede their path to your stick. Initiate that contact first to carve out space for yourself and keep stick mashers away.
Keep the Ball Centered
Ensure the ball stays firmly seated into the pocket, near the bottom. Centering the ball low makes it harder to dislodge with checks. Constantly adjust hand position on the shaft to prevent the ball from shifting. Keeping possession centered gives you better control.
Move Your Feet
Never stay still, easy to hit. Keep moving your feet in all directions while shielding the ball. Small, active steps help you maneuver away from pressure while protecting your stick. Change direction frequently and force defenders to constantly readjust angle of pursuit.
Shield Ground Balls Immediately
Begin shielding your stick immediately after scooping up ground balls before you even have full possession. As the ball enters the head’s throat, start rotating your body and tucking in elbows. Don’t wait until after securing possession – it will be too late. Be proactive protecting ground balls.
Fend Away Cross Checks
When shielding your stick, expect defenders to deliver hard cross checks. Be ready to absorb them with your arms. Keep your hands spaced wide on the shaft to brace for contact. Allow the shaft to flex and whip upon impact, but hold firm at the end points to retain control.
Widen Your Stance
A wide stance centered over your knees helps establish a balanced base. Having strong footing enables holding your position against physical checking pressure. Widening your stance lowers your center of gravity for added physical stability.
Master the Evo for Possession Play
The Warrior Evo Warp Pro gives you a crucial edge when shielding the ball. Its pinched head profile with minimal offset is perfect for tight elbow tucking. The head protects sticks better than an open design when ball carrying. Its excellent ball control and retention helps center possession.
The Evo pocket’s soft feel allows absorbing checks better too. Overall, the Evo equals quick breaks and transitions thanks to its unmatched ground ball and possession play abilities. Mastering stick shielding skills maximizes its advantages.
Protect Along the Sidelines
Shielding your stick effectively is especially critical along the side boards. With nowhere to go, extra defenders collapse quickly. Get low along the boards, pivoting your frame sideways to protect your stick from getting slammed against the glass.
Whip Your Stick on Checks
Welcome solid cross checks with a quick “whipping” motion right as stick contact lands. Give the defender some flex, abruptly returning the shaft back to its original protected position across your body. This whipping absorption helps maintain possession against hard hits.
Keep Your Head on a Swivel
Continuously scan the floor while shielding your stick and ball carrying. Look over both shoulders and all directions to read the defense’s positioning. Clock their approach angles and anticipate contact locations to proactively protect against them.
Don’t Try to Out-Muscle
Shielding possession is about body positioning, footwork, and technique – not brute strength. Don’t try to muscle through checks or get overpowered holding your ground. Flow with contact, but retain control using intelligent shielding skills. Smart protects possession better than strong.
Move the Ball Quickly
The longer you hold the ball, the harder you’ll get hit. Once gaining possession, move the ball immediately via crisp passes or quick drives. Draw defenders in, then hit the open man as they overcommit to doubling you. Moving the ball fast limits your shielding exposure.
Call for Help
Don’t be afraid to audibly call for help when getting swarmed shielding the ball. Yell “Help left!” or “Help right!” so teammates know to provide you an outlet. Drawing in extra defenders leaves someone open. Communicate the hot spots.
Conceal Your Intentions
Disguise your next move while shielding possession from your opponents. Keep them guessing by not locking eyes onto an intended target or cradling your stick for a certain direction too early. Make decisive movements once committing to your next pass, drive or shot.
In box lacrosse, successfully protecting your stick while battling for loose balls is a difference maker. Mastering shielding techniques like tucking in elbows, rotating your frame, and widening your stance gives you an edge. Secure the ball, shield against contact, and move possession quickly to help lead your team to victory.
Box Lacrosse Communication and Teamwork
Box lacrosse is fast, hectic, and extremely physical. With possessions changing hands so rapidly in tight quarters, teammates constantly need to be on the same page. Excellent communication and teamwork are must-have skills in the hectic world of box lacrosse. Here are some keys to mastering communication and playing as a cohesive unit in box:
Talk on Defense
Constantly communicate with your defensive teammates on positioning, matchups, and slides. Tell each other who has ball, who’s got next slide, and where you are rotating. Echo demands like “I’ve got ball!” and “I’m doubling!” keep everyone connected.
Call Picks and Screens
As the ball moves around the floor, continually call out legal picks and screens for teammates. Announce screen locations like “Pick right!” or “Screen left!” so teammates can utilize them. Communicate picks quickly so attackers can catch defenders off guard.
Hype Up Teammates
Bring constant positive energy and hype up your teammates when they make big plays. Yell “Nice look!” after a good pass or “Let’s go!” after a goal. High energy and positivity keep the team’s intensity high and morale boosted.
Talk Through Transitions
When you gain possession and begin the fast break, immediately communicate with your teammates up floor. Yell outlets like “Next left!” or “Behind!” so they transition into the right positions quicker to receive your passes on the run.
Call for Screens
When being marked tightly, loudly call for screeners to get open. Yell “Screen left” or “Screen right” and wait for the screener to set his feet and make contact. Communicate the side you want to rub shoulders and get separation for potential shots.
Direct Cutters
Tell cutters and picks exactly where to set up and cut to give you an open look to goal. Say “Set a pick low left” or “Backdoor cut right” so they move precisely how you need them to in the moment. Direct traffic vocally.
Make Sharp, Decisive Calls
When communicating with your team, make your calls loud, sharp and decisive. Say exactly what you want clearly and with authority so teammates can instantly process and react. No hesitation or mumbling – be clear and confident.
Master the Evo for Team Play
Having a lacrosse stick built for box like the Warrior Evo Warp Pro will maximize your team’s communication and connectivity. Its excellent ball control, quick release, and hold make it ideal for crisp team passing sequences. The Evo excels specifically at box lacrosse team play.
Announce Picks Coming
Right before setting a pick, loudly announce your screen to teammates like “Pick left coming!” This gives the ball carrier a moment to process and be ready to use it. Communication and timing are key for productive screens.
Make Eye Contact
When working pick and rolls, make quick eye contact with the screener right beforehand. A subtle head nod or glance signals your intentions and gets you both on the same page. Eye contact syncs up intentions.
Talk Through Defensive Doubles
When being double-teamed, immediately tell your teammates where the two remaining open defenders are located. Say “I’m doubled, two left!” so they instantly know where to find the open man advantage.
Echo Positioning Reminders
Consistently remind each other of proper floor spacing and positioning. Say “Get wide!” or “Center up!” if teammates drift out of alignment. Keep everyone adhering to floor positioning principles.
Criticize Constructively
If a teammate makes a mistake, don’t bite their head off. Provide constructive criticism respectfully to teach them proper technique and decision making. Build up your teammates – anger just divides the team.
Stay Engaged on the Bench
When off the floor, remain fully engaged following the game’s flow and patterns. Analyze what’s unfolding and be ready to point out adjustments to teammates on the bench. Stay mentally active.
Celebrate Successes
Boost team morale and connection by celebrating goals, assists, big hits, and successes. Mob congratulate your teammates. Remain positive through ups and downs to build team culture.
Constructive Sideline Feedback
Coaches should provide specific, constructive feedback for adjustments from the sideline. Yell adjustments catered to each player’s needs, not just general criticism. Focus on teaching, not anger.
Stay Composed
Amidst the high intensity and physicality of box lacrosse, it’s vital everyone maintains composure. Don’t lose your cool or take dumb retaliation penalties. Channel emotions positively to fuel focused team play.
In the tight confines of box lacrosse, mastering communication and teamwork provides a distinct advantage. Talking constantly on defense, calling picks, and directing cutters sharpens execution. Dial in team skills and the Evo Warp Pro will maximize each pass, screen, and cut.
Play Aggressive Defense with Good Footwork
If you’re looking to step up your box lacrosse game, mastering defense is a must. Playing tenacious and aggressive D can completely change the tempo of a game and shut down the opposing offense. While brutal hits get the crowd going, it’s quick footwork and positioning that make the best defenders. Keep moving those feet and stay one step ahead of your matchup to lock them down and force turnovers.
Footwork is especially key when playing defense with a short stick. Keep your feet active and your hips loose to move quickly in any direction. Shuffle step to maintain optimal body position and balance as you mirror the offensive player. Chop your feet rapidly to explode forward or change direction on a dime. Quick lateral slides will allow you to help teammates and swat away interior passes.
With a long pole, footwork remains crucial for keeping opponents in front of you. But you also gain more reach to knock down shots and passes with pokes and checks. Work on your agility and lateral speed so you can stay with dodging attackmen. Drills like ladder footwork, box jumps, and agility ladders will take your feet to the next level. Explosive lower body strength allows you to hold your ground against pushes and drives to the cage.
No matter your defensive position or lacrosse stick, always play on the balls of your feet. This sets you up to react in any direction. Sink your hips and keep your center of gravity low for optimal balance and movement. And keep those hands active! Quick sticks and well-timed checks will keep opponents guessing.
Master Proper Positioning
In addition to quick footwork, proper positioning is also vital for smothering defense. The keys are denying space and sliding at the right times. As your player advances, give them a step but work to steer them to the sideline. Don’t overcommit, though, or quick players will blow right by you. Funnel cutters into your help defenders. Communicate constantly on picks and switches.
Help defense and slides need to be on point in box lacrosse. With so much happening in tight quarters, it’s critical to support your teammates. Look to provide help early before an opponent can get free. When the ball moves, be ready to snap your head around, find the open man, and slide fast. Recovery speed is just as crucial to rotate back after a slide. The top box lacrosse D-units move seamlessly together like a fist closing around the ball carrier.
Master Your Lacrosse Stick Checks
Throwing checks is an art form that leads to loose balls and fast breaks going the other way. Take time to master different types of checks and when to utilize them. The poke check is excellent for surprising dodgers and knocking the ball free. Make sure to get your hands fully extended and lead with the bottom hand for maximum reach.
The slap check comes from below with an upward motion to dislodge the ball. This is great on unsuspecting opponents backing in or carrying the ball low. For trail checks, wind up fully with your top hand and slash powerfully down diagonally across your opponent’s arms. The lift check starts low and accelerates upwards to lift your opponent’s stick up and out of their grasp.
Work on throwing checks from different angles and at various points in an opponent’s dodge. Learning when and how to unleash each type of check will make you a turnover machine. Mastering footwork, positioning, and stick checks takes your defense to lockdown status.
Master Shooting With the Evo Warp Pro
Wreaking havoc on defense is huge, but you’ve also got to be a threat when your team has the ball. Having a lethal shot is a must for any lacrosse player. With the Warrior Evo Warp Pro, you get an excellent box lacrosse stick for gaining a shooting edge.
The Evo Warp Pro excels at ripping extreme heat on cage. The key is its OverDrive rail and Whip technology for insane ball speed. These carbon inserts and strategic channel placement let you wind up for maximum velocity. Unleash wicked sidearm rockets and overhand bombs that goalies can’t stop.
Practice your mechanics to take full advantage of the Evo Warp Pro’s shooting prowess. Make sure to transfer power from your lower body by rotating your hips and driving from your legs. Cradle high and shift hands quickly during your wind-up. Follow through fully towards your target for pinpoint accuracy shot after shot.
Work on shooting on the run and from tough angles. Vary your release point and go low, corners, or stick side high. Perfect different types of shots like quick sticks, bouncers, rollers, and overhand rips. Before you know it, you’ll be sniping top corners at will with the Evo Warp Pro.
Elevate Your Passing
While the Evo Warp Pro specializes in velocity, it also performs great for crisp passing. Moving the ball quickly and efficiently against sliding defenses is a must. With clears and in settled situations, look for cutters and hit them in stride with precise passes.
Use the entire length of the Evo Warp Pro and make sure to shift hands smoothly from upper to lower as you release. Put touch on your passes and hit your teammates’ sticks on the run. Whip those quick sticks passes with authority for sets, give-and-gos, and interior feeds through seams.
Incorporate one-touch passing, behind-the-back feeds, and no-looks to keep defense guessing. Show off your handles to freeze and bait defenders before zipping the pass. Time practices with a partner and challenge each other to increase speed and accuracy.
Dominate Faceoffs
Gaining possession off draws is critical in box lacrosse. The Evo Warp Pro gives you an upper hand at the dot with its narrow yet powerful profile. Stay low through the clamp and explode up through the ball. The scoop and channel design works great for directing ground balls upwards.
If allowed, invert the stick and take draws lefty even if you’re a righty. This puts more torque and power into the clamp for stronger pops. Roll your wrist aggressively during the rake to motor the ball out. Faceoff wings need to support the play and react instantly to breaks.
Drill different techniques like the plunger, sneak, jam, and more. Vary straight-up clamps with sidewall grabs to keep the opposition guessing. Mastering faceoffs with the Evo Warp Pro leads to loads of extra possessions.
Elevate Your Box Lacrosse Game
The compact yet versatile Evo Warp Pro by Warrior is built for today’s box lacrosse game. Use the tips in this article to maximize your performance with this elite stick. Take your defense to the next level by mastering footwork, positioning, and checks. Then unleash your full offensive arsenal with pinpoint shooting, crisp passing, and dominant draws.
With hard work and practice using these techniques, the Evo Warp Pro will become an extension of your hands. You’ll gain the edge over your matchup in all phases of the game. So break out the Evo Warp Pro and elevate your game to warrior status in the rough and tumble world of box lacrosse.
Perfect Passing Accuracy Even When Pressured
Making crisp, accurate passes under pressure is a must for succeeding in box lacrosse. With defenders constantly harassing you, it’s crucial to have the skills and stick to quickly move the ball. The Warrior Evo Warp Pro provides excellent feel and control to master passing even when dodging, cutting, or being face guarded.
The key is dedicated practice with the Evo Warp Pro to build muscle memory. Set up passing drills working on accuracy, speed, and passing under duress. Train your hands to perfectly cradle, shift, and release during complex passing sequences. Rep after rep will lock in the stick feel so you can deliver dimes without thinking.
Nail Your Passing Fundamentals
Before moving to high-pressure scenarios, nail down fundamental passing mechanics. Set your hands right at the start with a proper cradle carrying across the front of your body. Use your bottom hand to control the shaft for optimal feel and hold.
Shift hands quickly during release to add velocity and accuracy. Point your elbows out and step directly at your target. Follow through fully after the pass, snapping your wrists and pointing at the receiver.
Practice hitting different passing lanes and angles. Master the crisp, over the shoulder pass back to midfielders. Work on quick-stick feeds to cutters from up top or behind. Rep ground ball scoops with the Evo into immediate outlet passes.
Master Passing on the Move
Once your mechanics are locked in, add movement into your passing drills. Simulate coming across the middle and hitting a backdoor cutter in stride. Sprint up the floor and deliver an outlet pass to a breaking midfielder without breaking stride.
Slip an interior feed between defenders to a cutting teammate right off an in-tight pick. Keep those passes low and protected. Whip no-look passes from behind your head when the defense overplays you. Vary your passing sequences to build full lacrosse IQ.
Work both righty and lefty. Charge to your left and throw a rocket cross-body feed to the weak side wing. Keep practicing on the move until you can place passes accurately anywhere, anytime.
Maintain Composure Against Heat
Now it’s time to ratchet up the pressure. Have a partner defend you closely while you work on passing off picks, during give-and-gos, and when dodging. Fight through physical play and stick checks to still deliver accurate feeds.
Set up 2v2 and 3v3 scenarios with tight man defense to simulate game intensity. Work on timing cuts and passes to lead teammates into open space before defenders can react. Shoulder shakes, hesitations, and fakes will all help you throw off defenders.
Mix in occasional shot attempts or drives during passing drills to keep the defense honest. But make quick decisions and keep the ball moving crisply. Maintain composure against all types of harassment and pressure.
Master Shooting Through Contact
Being able to rip shots under physical duress is also a must-have skill in box lacrosse. The Evo Warp Pro generates insane velocity and pinpoint accuracy to elevate your shooting game.
The Offset Razr Scoop and Tri-Flex pockets give you superior ball control for quick sticks and shots on the run. Dial in your shooting mechanics and footwork first before adding contact.
Generate power from your legs and core by rotating your hips and driving off your back foot. Transfer that energy up through your shoulders and arms. Follow through towards your target and snap your wrists on release.
Unleash Your Arsenal
Now that your fundamentals are sound, practice shooting on the move and from all angles. Rush to the crease and deliver a low rocket near side. Curl around the edge of the crease and elevate a quick stick top corner.
Work on your off-hand shooting as well. Charge right and bury a topshelf lefty shot. Vary your release point from side-arm to overhand. Keep drilling your shooting until you’re hitting corners at will.
Shoot Through Contact
The finishing touch is maintaining your accuracy against heavy defensive pressure. Have a partner defend you closely, bump your hands, and contest every shot attempt.
Post up low and power through checks to stick quick time and room shots. Absorb contact and keep your hands free to deliver pinpoint shots. Even when getting whacked, keep your mechanics sound.
Sell shot fakes to create just enough space for clean looks. And convert those chances at a high rate. Shooting well through traffic separates the scorers from the playmakers.
Make Opponents Pay By Mastering Passing and Shooting
With its unprecedented velocity and control, the Evo Warp Pro turns you into a passing and shooting menace. Follow the techniques in this article to own every inch of the floor.
Crisp passes on the move find cutters in full stride before defenders can react. Frozen ropes inside split multiple defenders and lead to highlight reel goals. And blistering shots overpower goalies even through hacks and swipes.
Put in the repetitions using these tips for passing and shooting excellence. You’ll gain total confidence to unleash the Evo Warp Pro and punish defenders every possession. Mastering these skills makes you a lethal threat and takes your game to the next level.
Develop Lightning Fast Transitions
Pushing transition and scoring in the blink of an eye is a trademark of today’s electrifying box lacrosse. Outlet passes must be pinpoint, cuts crisp, and shots blistering to capitalize on odd-man chances. With the Warrior Evo Warp Pro, you get the perfect stick for turbocharging your transition game.
The Evo Warp Pro gives you the tools for executing and finishing fast breaks. Scoop ground balls cleanly, move the ball accurately, and bury your chances before the defense can set. Put in the work on key skills for transitions and transform into a lethal weapon on the run.
Secure Possession Off Turnovers
Great transition starts with securing the ball. Whether it’s a caused turnover, blocked shot, or loose ball, you need to gain possession. Keep your stick always on the ground and use quick, soft hands to corral ground balls.
The Evo Warp Pro’s speed scoop channels guide grounders right into the pocket. Explode through the ball, scoop and go in one fluid motion. Outwork opponents to every 50/50 ball to give your team a numbers advantage.
Look Upfield Instantly
Once the ball is secure, immediately look upfield to push pace. Don’t just take off though – read the situation. If you have an angle, take space and press forward. But if the defense recovers, pull it out and wait for teammates.
On the clear, locate your outlet pass before you scoop the ball. Hit leading passes to middies already on the move up-floor. Keep your head on a swivel scanning for cutters the instant you have possession.
Throw Crisp Outlet Passes
Connecting on long outlet passes under pressure ignites your transition game. The Evo Warp Pro provides pinpoint passing at high velocity to hit leading cutters in stride.
Work on quick transfers from a ground ball to an explosive clearing pass. Step and throw in one motion towards your breakout teammate. Look defenders off to freeze them before unleashing a 30-yard rocket pass.
Drill hitting cutters of all angles – leading diagonal passes across the floor to the far sideline really shred defenses. Flick quick touch passes outside to trailing teammates to maintain width.
Finish in Tight Spaces
Pushing pace means you’ll often finish against a defense still scrambling to recover. The Evo Warp Pro gives you the finishing skills to bury chances in tight space.
With its variable pocket and Scoop Tech, you can sink feeder’s passes from all angles in stride. Master quick sticks to shoot before defenders fully slide. Work on curling tight around the crease and elevating to the top corner.
If space closes down, use your box lacrosse handles to create room for shots. Sharp cuts, rolls back, and pivots all set up better shooting angles. Stay composed and use ball fakes to make the goalie and defense commit.
Elevate Your Shooting
Of course, once you do get room to shoot in transition you need to finish at a high rate. The Evo Warp Pro turns your good shots into great shots with its unprecedented velocity.
Its carbon inserts and rail technology maximize ball speed. Unleash wicked sidearm and overhand rips. Vary your shot selection – low rockets, bouncers, stick-side high lasers. Keep the goalie guessing.
Drill shooting on the run and off broken plays. Master catching outlet passes and shooting in one slick motion. Push your limits to become a dead-eye shooter under any situation.
Shoot Accurately Against Pressure
You also need your shooting mechanics to hold up as recovering defenders apply checks, bumps, and harassment. Maintain perfect shooting form even through heavy contact.
Drive off your legs to power through checks. Keep your elbows out and hands free from contact. With your lacrosse IQ, recognize when to pull it out rather than force low percentage shots.
But when you do get that glimmer of space, make it count. Bury your chances before the defense fully recovers down-floor. Your shooting accuracy will separate you on the break.
Push Pace on Offense
It’s not just in transition when you should push pace and apply pressure. Be an uptempo threat when your offense gets settled as well. As the ball moves around the perimeter, make hard cuts and work for open space.
Master give-and-go cuts with your midfielders to break down the defense. Set picks for teammates and roll hard to the cage looking for returns. Communicate and move sans the ball to create 2-on-1 advantages.
When you have room to Dodge, be decisive and go hard. Force defenders to respect your ability to attack the paint. This opens up skip passes across the perimeter and opens up cutters.
Feed to Finish
Your playmaking opens up scoring chances for teammates as well as yourself. The Evo Warp Pro provides crisp, accurate passing to hit cutters in tight windows.
Explosively drive and drop dimes to cutters before defenders can rotate. Look shot to freeze the defense, then whip no-look and behind-the-back passes. Place feeds purposefully to lead teammates into open space.
Master different types of feeds like quick sticks, shovels inside, catch-and-shoot passes. Your distribution skills keep the offense flowing and defenders scrambling.
Leave Opponents Spinning
With practice using the techniques in this article, the Evo Warp Pro will give you breakneck speed in transition. Fast breaks turn into easy goals before the defense can even react.
Your playmaking and passing in the settled offense keeps defenders backpedaling. Crisp cuts, dodges, and passes fuel an uptempo attack. Pull the trigger in the blink of an eye when lanes open up.
The Evo Warp Pro handles and shoots like a dream, allowing you to push pace and capitalize on any opportunity. Work on these transition skills and watch your game and stats soar.
Maintain Composure and Make Smart Plays
Box lacrosse is the fastest game on two feet. The pace is frantic, physical play relentless, and offensive sets dizzying. It’s easy to get rattled and force low-percentage plays. Staying calm and making smart decisions with the Evo Warp Pro separates the best.
Take time during practice to simulate game intensity. Work on your lacrosse IQ for knowing what looks are available. Be an expert at preparation and scouting to understand defensive tendencies. Confidence in your abilities takes mental composure to another level.
Master Your Fundamentals
Keeping composure starts with mastering all the lacrosse fundamentals. Put in the work so you can rely on sound mechanics when pressure ramps up. Crisp sticks, accurate passing, tenacious defense become second nature.
Drill shooting form and work on placement rather than just velocity. Know how to cradle and protect your stick while being harassed. Effortless skills free your mind to focus on smart play when challenged.
Recognize Defensive Schemes
Use your lacrosse IQ to diagnose defenses and recognize where opportunities will open up. Identify and call out the defensive scheme early in a possession.
Watch your matchup’s tendencies – are they overplaying you? Cheating into passing lanes? Call out screens and help defense. Share scouting reports with teammates at practice.
Now work the ball quickly to the open spaces in the defense. Strike backdoors and slip screens when your defender falls asleep. Feed the high post when you draw a double team up top.
Make Quick Decisions
When pressured, a common response is to panic and just chuck up a low percentage shot. But that typically leads to a turnover and wasted possession. Instead, stay composed and make the smart, simple play.
If the defense takes away your top options, quickly recognize that. Don’t force a pass or over-dribble. Swing the ball calmly around the perimeter and wait for a breakdown or defensive rotation.
Patience opens up better looks later in the possession. Share the ball and keep it moving quickly to find the right shot.
Never Force Low Percentage Plays
Lacrosse IQ and experience teach you what quality shot attempts look like. With the Evo Warp Pro, you have the skills to convert those quality chances at a high rate.
So don’t settle for low-angle rips or long bombs from up top through traffic. Recognize early in your dodge if the defense has clogged your driving lanes to the cage.
If nothing obvious opens up, calmly relocate and start your dodge from the opposite side. Set picks for teammates rather than take wild shots yourself. Your patience will pay off.
Pass Up Transition Chances
Even in exciting transition moments, smart decisions rule over highlight reel plays. Don’t force uptempo chances that aren’t there.
If you scoop a turnover but the defense recovers, resist the urge to just charge up-floor. Pull the ball out and wait for numbers. Patience advances the ball rather than squandering possessions.
On the fast break, avoid risky cross-field passes in traffic. And don’t shoot on three defenders when a teammate is wide open. Your lacrosse IQ puts you in position to finish quality transition looks.
Embrace Your Role
Having the self-awareness to understand your strengths and limitations is huge. Play within yourself and focus on excelling at your role.
Are you a downhill dodger? Feeder from up top? Defensive stopper? Cutting finisher? Whatever your role, execute it at a high level. Don’t overstep by attempting plays beyond your capabilities.
Bring consistent effort and decision-making every single possession. Your teammates will trust you when the game is on the line.
Handle Late Game Situations
When a game is close in crunch time, composure must heighten. Lean on your preparation and have confidence to thrive with the game up for grabs.
Don’t dwell on past mistakes – stay focused on the current possession. Use timeouts wisely to rest and advance the ball. If the defense amps up pressure, trust your skills and use fakes and deception.
On defense, understand time and score. Apply tenacious denial defense up top if you have a lead. Or double ball aggressively when trailing late. Anticipate how the offense will attack given the game situation.
Regain Composure Quickly
When you do make mistakes, bounce back quickly. Don’t hang your head or lose focus after a turnover or getting beat on defense. Hustle back and do your job the next possession.
On the bench, mentally replay what went wrong and think through how you’ll adjust next time out there. Have amnesia on errors but learn from them. Your short term memory and resiliency are invaluable.
Trust your skills and preparation. Staying poised in adverse situations defines elite lacrosse IQ.
Think the Game at the Highest Level
Mastering the mental approach is just as important as stick skills with the Evo Warp Pro. Applying your preparation and lacrosse IQ results in smart, winning plays.
With experience, maintain composure even as the pace and pressure escalates. Confidence in your abilities keeps your mind clear to recognize and attack openings.
Consistency and unselfishness make you a trusted teammate when it matters most. Take your mental game to the next level and watch your performance reach new heights.