How to choose the right lacrosse stick for optimal control. What is the proper cradling technique for smooth catching. How to get into an athletic stance to prepare for catches. Why keeping your eyes on the ball is crucial for clean catches. How to use two hands for more control when catching passes.
Selecting the Perfect Lacrosse Stick for Enhanced Performance
Choosing the right lacrosse stick is fundamental to developing solid skills. For beginners, a lightweight stick with a wider head is ideal, as it facilitates easier catching and ground ball scooping. The head should be strung loosely to generate more ball control. As players progress, they can upgrade to sticks with narrower heads and tighter stringing patterns to elevate their game.
When selecting a new stick, it’s crucial to test various options from reputable brands such as STX, Maverik, and Warrior. Pay close attention to the head shape, stringing, and shaft stiffness. Seeking recommendations from teammates can also be beneficial. With the appropriate lacrosse stick in hand, players will find themselves catching crisp passes and delivering accurate shots with ease.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Lacrosse Stick:
- Head width and shape
- Stringing pattern and tension
- Shaft material and stiffness
- Overall weight and balance
- Brand reputation and player reviews
Mastering the Art of Cradling for Smooth Ball Control
Cradling is a fundamental skill in lacrosse that involves rocking the stick back and forth to maintain ball control. This technique is essential for keeping possession during catches and developing quick hands. To master cradling, start by practicing without a ball to get the basic movement down. Focus on using your wrists and arms in a smooth, circular motion.
As you become more comfortable, progress to cradling while walking and eventually at game speed. When receiving passes, employ a soft cradling motion to absorb and cushion the impact. In traffic, cradle high and tight for better control. With consistent practice, proper cradling technique will become second nature, enhancing overall ball handling skills.
Cradling Progression for Beginners:
- Practice without a ball
- Add a ball and cradle while stationary
- Cradle while walking
- Cradle at jogging pace
- Cradle at full game speed
Adopting the Optimal Athletic Stance for Catching Success
A balanced athletic position is crucial for reacting to and catching passes from all angles. Stand with knees bent, feet shoulder-width apart, and weight evenly distributed. Hold your stick cradled across your body with hands positioned a few inches apart for optimal control.
Keep your eyes focused downfield and be ready to adjust your feet and body position to receive passes. Active feet are key to maintaining agility. By consistently adopting this athletic stance, players will be poised and prepared to catch any pass that comes their way, regardless of speed or trajectory.
Elements of a Proper Athletic Stance:
- Knees bent
- Feet shoulder-width apart
- Weight evenly distributed
- Stick cradled across body
- Hands positioned for control
- Eyes focused downfield
The Importance of Eye Focus in Executing Clean Catches
Maintaining visual focus on the ball is one of the most critical skills in lacrosse. Players must track the flight of the ball from the passer’s stick into their own. It’s essential to resist the urge to look down at the stick when receiving a pass, as this often leads to dropped balls and fumbling mistakes.
Instead, watch the ball with laser-like focus into your stick pocket, allowing your hands to work through muscle memory. Your head should follow the ball from release to catch. Developing excellent hand-eye coordination and visual tracking skills will ensure clean catches every time, even in high-pressure game situations.
Tips for Improving Ball Tracking:
- Practice catching with a partner at various distances
- Use different colored balls to challenge visual focus
- Incorporate peripheral vision drills
- Work on reaction time with quick-release passes
Enhancing Control with Two-Handed Catching Techniques
To secure passes effectively, catching with two hands on the stick is crucial whenever possible. Spread your hands apart, with the top hand near the throat of the stick head and the bottom hand towards the butt end. This grip provides optimal leverage and control to cradle and secure the ball after catching.
Develop the habit of squeezing your top hand tight when receiving hard passes to trap the ball in your stick pocket. Keep both hands soft and ready to cradle smoothly once gaining possession. Consistently using two hands will significantly amplify your catching skills and overall ball control.
Benefits of Two-Handed Catching:
- Improved ball security
- Better leverage for cradling
- Enhanced control on hard passes
- Smoother transition to throwing or dodging
- Reduced risk of turnovers
Mastering the Art of Cushioned Catches for Ball Control
Learning to ‘give’ with your stick is a crucial technique for cushioning passes and gaining control. As a pass is thrown, gently flex your stick back towards your body. Time this movement so that as the ball arrives, you smoothly transition into cradling forwards to move with the pass. This slight give cushions the catch and prevents the ball from bouncing out.
Avoid holding your stick stiffly in place, as this can cause the ball to ricochet off on hard passes. Cushioning passes takes practice but soon becomes natural. This technique gives you a significant edge in gaining possession and maintaining ball control, especially in fast-paced game situations.
Steps to Perfect Cushioned Catches:
- Anticipate the incoming pass
- Begin to flex your stick back slightly
- Time the flex to coincide with ball contact
- Smoothly transition into a forward cradle
- Maintain soft hands throughout the motion
Proactive Footwork: Stepping Towards Passes for Better Possession
Aggressively moving your feet and stepping towards passes is a key strategy for securing possession. Rather than waiting statically for the ball to come to you, take a quick step forward to meet it. Timing your footwork to intersect the ball mid-flight can significantly improve your catching success rate.
Stepping into catches helps you meet the pass with added momentum, making it easier to gain control. Practice sidestepping, backpedaling, and angling your body while stepping to passes from various directions. By consistently meeting the ball halfway, you’ll boost your catching skills and become a more reliable receiver in game situations.
Drills to Improve Pass Reception Footwork:
- Partner passing with dynamic movement
- Cone drills for directional changes
- Rapid fire catching from multiple angles
- Reaction drills with unexpected passes
- Full-field scrimmages focusing on off-ball movement
Optimizing Catch Height for Maximum Control and Vision
Focusing on catching passes above shoulder level whenever possible is a technique that can significantly improve ball control and field vision. This positioning allows you to see the ball easily into your stick pocket and transition quickly into a forward cradle. Catching low near your waist often results in less control and reduced visibility of the field.
Work on adjusting your stance and body position to receive passes high. Communicate with teammates to encourage upward passes into your stick. Concentrate on catching above your shoulders and then smoothly transitioning into an upward cradling motion. By consistently catching passes at this optimal height, you’ll experience improved command over the ball and better overall field awareness.
Benefits of High Catches:
- Improved visibility of the field
- Easier transition to cradling
- Better protection from defenders
- Increased passing accuracy
- Enhanced overall ball control
Developing Lightning-Fast Quick Stick Passes
The quick stick pass is a valuable skill that allows players to redirect the ball to a teammate almost instantaneously upon catching it. This technique is crucial for maintaining the speed of play and catching defenders off guard. To execute a quick stick pass effectively, focus on soft hands and a fluid motion from catch to release.
Practice quick stick passes with a partner, gradually increasing the speed and difficulty. Work on receiving passes from various angles and immediately redirecting them to different spots. As you improve, incorporate quick stick passes into game-like scenarios, such as fast breaks or settled offensive sets.
Key Elements of Successful Quick Stick Passes:
- Soft hands for smooth ball reception
- Quick hand placement adjustment
- Fluid motion from catch to release
- Accurate aim and proper follow-through
- Split-second decision making
Perfecting the Art of Behind-the-Back Catches and Passes
Behind-the-back catches and passes are advanced techniques that can give players a significant advantage on the field. These skills allow for quick ball movement and can catch opponents off guard. To master behind-the-back maneuvers, start with slow, controlled practice sessions focusing on proper form and stick positioning.
Begin by practicing behind-the-back catches with a partner throwing easy passes. As you become more comfortable, progress to catching harder passes and immediately transitioning into behind-the-back passes. Remember to keep your eyes on the ball and use your peripheral vision to locate teammates. With consistent practice, these flashy moves can become reliable tools in your lacrosse arsenal.
Steps to Learn Behind-the-Back Techniques:
- Practice the motion without a ball
- Start with slow, soft passes
- Focus on proper stick positioning
- Gradually increase speed and difficulty
- Incorporate into game-like scenarios
Enhancing Stick Skills Through Wall Ball Drills
Wall ball drills are an excellent way to improve stick skills, hand-eye coordination, and overall lacrosse proficiency. These exercises can be performed individually and require minimal equipment. Regular wall ball sessions can dramatically improve passing accuracy, catching ability, and quick-stick skills.
Start with basic catch and throw drills, focusing on proper form and consistency. As you improve, incorporate more complex drills such as quick sticks, behind-the-back passes, and off-hand work. Set goals for yourself, such as completing a certain number of repetitions without dropping the ball, to track your progress and stay motivated.
Essential Wall Ball Drills:
- Basic catch and throw
- Quick stick passes
- Off-hand practice
- Behind-the-back passes
- One-handed catches
- Sidearm and underhand throws
Improving Hand Speed and Reaction Time
Developing quick hands and rapid reaction time is crucial for success in lacrosse. These skills enable players to catch difficult passes, execute quick stick moves, and maintain possession under pressure. To improve hand speed and reaction time, incorporate specific drills into your training regimen.
One effective drill is the “hot potato” exercise, where players rapidly pass a ball back and forth at close range. Another useful technique is using a reaction ball, which bounces erratically, forcing players to adjust quickly. Regular practice with these drills will lead to noticeably faster hands and improved overall stick skills.
Drills to Boost Hand Speed and Reaction Time:
- Hot potato passing
- Reaction ball drills
- Rapid fire catching
- Tennis ball wall drills
- Partner quick stick exercises
Mastering Off-Hand Skills for Versatility
Developing proficiency with your non-dominant hand is a key factor in becoming a well-rounded lacrosse player. Off-hand skills allow for greater versatility on the field and make you less predictable to defenders. Start by practicing basic catching and throwing with your off-hand, focusing on proper form and technique.
Gradually incorporate off-hand work into more complex drills and game-like situations. Set aside dedicated practice time for off-hand development, and challenge yourself to use your non-dominant hand during scrimmages and games. With consistent effort, your off-hand skills will improve, making you a more dynamic and effective player.
Steps to Improve Off-Hand Skills:
- Practice basic catching and throwing
- Incorporate off-hand work in wall ball routines
- Use off-hand during partner passing drills
- Challenge yourself in game-like scenarios
- Set goals for off-hand usage in games
Utilizing Video Analysis for Skill Refinement
Video analysis is a powerful tool for improving lacrosse skills, particularly passing and catching techniques. By recording practice sessions and games, players can gain valuable insights into their form, decision-making, and overall performance. This visual feedback allows for targeted improvements and helps identify areas that may need additional focus.
When reviewing footage, pay close attention to stick positioning, footwork, and body mechanics during passes and catches. Look for patterns in successful plays and areas where mistakes commonly occur. Consider using slow-motion playback to analyze the finer details of your technique. Regular video analysis sessions can lead to significant improvements in your lacrosse skills over time.
Benefits of Video Analysis:
- Identify strengths and weaknesses
- Analyze technique in detail
- Track progress over time
- Learn from successful plays
- Develop a more objective self-assessment
By incorporating these 15 techniques into your lacrosse training regimen, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the essential skills of passing and catching. Remember that consistent practice and a willingness to push your boundaries are key to improvement. Whether you’re a beginner looking to build a solid foundation or an experienced player aiming to refine your skills, these strategies will help you elevate your game and become a more valuable asset to your team.
Choose the Right Lacrosse Stick for Optimal Control
Having the proper lacrosse stick is crucial for developing solid fundamentals. As a beginner, opt for a lightweight stick with a wider head to make catching and scooping up ground balls easier. The head should be strung loosely to generate more ball control. As skills improve, upgrade to a stick with a narrower head and tighter stringing pattern to take your game to the next level.
When shopping for a new stick, test options from brands like STX, Maverik, and Warrior to see what feels best. Carefully inspect the head shape, stringing, and stiffness of the shaft. Ask teammates for recommendations too. With the right lacrosse stick in hand, you’ll be catching crisp passes and zinging accurate shots in no time!
Proper Cradling Technique for Smooth Catching
Cradling is rocking the stick back and forth to keep the ball in the pocket. Mastering this fundamental skill is key for maintaining ball control during catches and developing quick hands. Start by cradling without a ball to get the basic movement down. Focus on using your wrists and arms in a smooth, circular motion.
Once comfortable, try cradling while walking and eventually at game speed. Softly cradle when receiving passes to absorb and cushion the impact. Cradle high and tight when maneuvering through traffic. Proper cradling technique will soon become second nature!
Get in Athletic Stance to Prepare for Catches
Being in a balanced athletic position allows you to react and catch passes from all angles. Stand with knees bent, feet shoulder-width apart, and weight evenly distributed. Hold your stick cradled across your body with hands positioned a few inches apart for optimal control.
Focus eyes downfield and be ready to adjust your feet and body position to receive passes. Having active feet keeps you agile. By standing in an athletic stance, you’ll be poised and prepared to snag any pass that comes your way.
Keep Your Eyes on the Ball for Clean Catches
Keeping your eye on the ball is one of the most fundamental yet critical skills in lacrosse. Focus visually tracking the flight of the ball from the passer’s stick into your own. Resist the urge to look down at your stick when receiving a pass. This causes many dropped balls and fumbling mistakes.
Instead, watch the ball with laser-like focus into your stick pocket. Let your hands do the work through muscle memory. Your head should follow the ball from release to catch. Developing excellent hand-eye coordination and visual tracking skills will ensure you catch passes cleanly every time.
Use Two Hands for More Control Catching Passes
Secure passes by catching with two hands on your stick whenever possible. Spread hands apart with top hand near the throat of the stick head and bottom hand towards the butt end. This provides optimal leverage and control to cradle and secure the ball after catching.
Get in the habit of squeezing your top hand tight when receiving hard passes to trap the ball in your stick pocket. Keep both hands soft and ready to cradle smoothly once gaining possession. Two hands amplify your catching skills.
Cushion Catches by Giving With Your Stick
Learning to ‘give’ with your stick helps cushion passes to gain control. As a pass is thrown, gently flex your stick back towards your body. Time it so as the ball arrives, you smoothly transition into cradling forwards to move with the pass. This slight give cushions the catch.
Avoid stiffly holding your stick in place. This will cause the ball to bounce out on hard passes. Giving with your stick on catches takes practice but soon becomes natural. Cushioning passes gives you an edge in gaining possession and maintaining ball control.
Step Towards Passes to Meet Them in Midair
Aggressively moving your feet and stepping towards passes helps secure possession. Rather than waiting static for the ball to come to you, take a quick step forward to meet it. Time your footwork to intersect the ball mid-flight.
Stepping into catches helps you meet the pass with added momentum to gain control. Practice sidestepping, backpedaling, and angling your body while stepping to passes. Meeting the ball halfway boosts your catching skills from all directions.
Catch Above Your Shoulders for Best Control
Focus on catching passes above shoulder level whenever possible. This allows you to see the ball easily into your stick pocket and cradles forward quickly. Catching low near your waist results in less control and vision.
Work on adjusting your stance and body position to receive passes high. Call for teammates to pass upwards into your stick. Concentrate on catching above your shoulders then transition smoothly into an upward cradling motion right away. You’ll have way more command catching passes high.
Perfect Quick Stick Passes to Teammates
The quick stick pass is a key fundamental for keeping the ball moving quickly in lacrosse. As soon as you catch a pass, immediately return it to a teammate without cradling first. This lights fast passing requires precision timing and coordination.
Practice quick sticks with a partner starting stationary then adding movement. Focus on securing the catch then accelerating hands into an immediate pass. Keep passes accurate while developing speed. Mastering quick sticks will make you a valuable playmaker on offense.
Increase Passing Power with Proper Form
Generating fast, crisp passes requires proper mechanics and form. Step towards your target leading with your front foot. Rotate hips and shoulders as you follow through for added power. Whip sticks through the pass finishing with the head pointed at your target.
Incorporate your entire core and lower body, not just arms. Developing proper technique will allow you to zip accurate passes with velocity. Practice passing drills to refine form for maximum speed and control.
Lead Receivers to Connect Passes
Throwing accurate passes involves leading moving teammates. Aim ahead of their body position based on speed and angle. Leading too little will cause receivers to slow or reach back. Overthrowing causes missed connections and turnovers.
Practice hitting lead passes during drills. Communicate with teammates about speed and direction. Gauge distances and timing. Throwing proper lead passes demonstrates field awareness and precision passing abilities.
Use Fake Passes to Confuse Defenders
Deceive defenders with pump fakes and pass fakes. Watch them react to your stick movement, then explode in the opposite direction. Convincing ball fakes cause defenders to flinch, pause or change direction, allowing you space to operate.
Sell fakes with entire body, not just stick. Look off defenders by turning your head and shoulders opposite the intended pass target. Perfecting misdirection fakes helps you create separation and passing lanes when covered tightly.
Pass to Open Space for Easier Catches
Hitting teammates ‘in stride’ leads to more catches and fluid offense. Identify passing lanes to lead players into open space instead of throwing to covered locations. Time crisp passes so teammates can run onto them in the gaps.
Practice hitting angled passes to space during fast breaks. Communicate with teammates about targeting their momentum. Passing to open space boosts offensive possessions and keeps the ball moving upfield.
Practice Makes Perfect – Drills to Hone Skills
Sharpen your passing and catching skills with repetitive drilling. Try 2-line passing starting stationary then adding dodges, cuts, and defense. Box passing with 4 teammates teaches quick ball movement. Monkey in the Middle improves reaction time. Partner passing and V-cutting drills are also great training.
Film practice to analyze and improve mechanics. Focus on footwork, passing accuracy, catch technique, and athletic positioning. Mastering lacrosse requires determination. Perfect your passing skills through purposeful practice.
Proper Cradling Technique for Smooth Catching
Cradling the lacrosse ball correctly is crucial for maintaining control and developing soft hands. When you’re just starting out, it can feel unnatural and awkward. But with practice, cradling becomes second nature. Here are some tips to perfect your cradling technique:
Begin by getting comfortable with the basic cradling motion without a ball. Move your hands and arms in a smooth, circular pattern as if you’re stirring a pot. Keep wrists loose and focus on control. Start slow then gradually increase speed. Once the movement feels natural, add in a ball.
With a ball now in your stick pocket, keep the cradling motion controlled and tight. Cradle high to keep the ball secure – around face level is ideal. Cradling low near your waist results in less control. Go through the cradling motion slowly at first, then pick up speed.
When receiving passes, softly cradle on impact to gently absorb the pass. Give a little with your stick to cushion the ball then transition smoothly into your cradling. This allows for clean catches. Avoid cradling stiffly in place – work on the fluid motion.
During games, modify your cradling style to suit the situation. Cradle high and tight when evading defenders in traffic. Use a protective claw grip to shield the ball. Open up the cradling arc more when you have space to operate.
Practice cradling while doing stickwork drills like figure 8s. Also incorporate it into passing and catching drills to cement it instinctually. Developing soft, swift cradling hands will really elevate your lacrosse skills and ball control.
Get in Athletic Stance to Prepare for Catches
Being in the proper athletic stance is critical for fielding passes from all angles as a lacrosse player. Your body needs to be poised and balanced, ready to react in a split second to any pass. Here’s how to dial in your stance:
Stand with feet about shoulder-width apart in a staggered stance with one foot slightly ahead of the other. Knees should have a slight bend and weight evenly distributed. Avoid standing flat-footed.
Hold your stick out in front with hands apart – bottom hand near the butt end and top hand closer to the head. This gives optimal leverage for control. Keep your stick cradled and eyes focused downfield.
Stay on the balls of your feet with knees bent to explode in any direction. Practice dropping into your stance quickly from a standstill to react to passes suddenly. The more athletic your stance, the better!
During drills and games, concentrate on receiving passes from your athletic stance. The more you use proper technique, the more natural it will become over time. Taking the time to perfect your stance will take your catching abilities to the next level.
Keep Your Eyes on the Ball for Clean Catches
For lacrosse players, keeping your eye continuously focused on the ball is a fundamental skill that leads directly to success. But it’s often easier said than done in the heat of battle. Here are some tips for honing your eye-tracking abilities:
Start by intentionally watching the ball all the way from the passer’s stick into your own pocket on catches. Don’t glance down or take your eyes off it for even a split second. Let your hands do the work through muscle memory.
During passing drills, concentrate on watching the ball’s full flight path with laser-like focus. Have a partner mix up pass speed, angles and distance to keep you sharp.
Look to catch passes above your shoulders when possible for easier tracking. Use your peripherals to scan for defenders, then lock eyes back on the ball.
If you lose track of passes, don’t get flustered. Stay calm and quickly refocus. With enough repetition, keeping your eyes glued to the ball will become automatic. This skill pays huge dividends in lacrosse!
Use Two Hands for More Control Catching Passes
Securing passes with two hands on your stick gives you maximum control and leverage for cradling. Here are some tips on developing solid two-hand catching technique:
When receiving passes, spread your hands apart on the stick handle – about shoulder-width is ideal. Top hand near the throat of the head, bottom hand towards the butt end.
As the pass is thrown, flex your bottom hand up slightly to give. This cushions the impact. Then firmly squeeze your top hand and clamp down to trap the ball in the pocket.
Keep both hands soft and active to seamlessly transition into cradling after the catch. Avoid death-gripping the stick handle too tightly.
Practice clean two-hand catches from different angles – over the shoulder, backhand, quick sticks. The more you stick with proper technique, the more natural it will feel.
Cradling and catching with two hands gives you optimal control over the ball. Mastering this skill is crucial for taking your game up a level.
Perfect Quick Stick Passes to Teammates
As a lacrosse player, developing lightning-quick stick passing skills is a tremendous asset for keeping the ball moving and confusing defenders. Here are some tips for mastering the quick stick pass:
Start by receiving a pass from a partner stationary, then immediately passing back without cradling first. Concentrate on smooth acceleration into the return pass.
Next, add in movement – passing on the run or after a dodge. Focus on securing the catch then quickly firing back. Control and accuracy are key.
Vary the types of catches – over the shoulder, sidearm, between your legs. Quickly twist into the return pass. React don’t think!
Perfect the timing of your hands through repetition. The shorter your hands are on the stick, the faster you can reload passes.
Incorporate quick sticks into fast break drills. Hit leading teammates fluidly in transition. This skill translates directly to games.
Defenders hate quick stick passing. It keeps them off balance and on their heels. Mastering this technique makes you a dangerous playmaker!
Increase Passing Power with Proper Form
Generating velocity on your passes takes proper mechanics and technique. Here are some tips for adding more mustard on your passes:
Step into your pass, don’t just rely on arm strength. Rotate your hips and shoulders for momentum. Whip your stick aggressively through the throwing motion.
Follow through completely pointing your stick head right at your target after release. This ensures accuracy.
Use your entire core and lower body. Engage your legs, abs, and back to transfer power from the ground up.
Lead with your front foot and drive off your back foot. Stay balanced through the motion.
Focus on mechanics during passing drills to refine technique. Proper form allows you to deliver crisp rockets even when fatigued late in games.
Passing with authority makes hitting small windows easier and can absolutely laser past goalies. Dial in your technique to bring the heat!
Lead Receivers to Connect Passes
Throwing accurate passes to teammates on the move requires leading them properly. Here are some tips on mastering the lead pass:
Assess speed and direction of your teammate and where they’ll be in a few seconds. Identify passing lanes to lead them into space.
Aim your pass slightly ahead of their current body position. Leading too little will cause them to slow up or reach back.
Gauge distances and timing through repetition. Communicate with teammates about adjusting lead passes.
Lead harder on the run or in transition when they’re at top speed. Underleading causes you to miss the window.
Practice hitting leading passes to teammates making various cuts during drills. It’s a nuanced skill but pays dividends.
Throwing accurate lead passes demonstrates great vision, awareness and precision. Mastering this technique makes the offense flow smoothly.
Get in Athletic Stance to Prepare for Catches
Proper athletic positioning is vital in lacrosse to field passes cleanly from all angles. Your body needs to be poised, balanced and ready to react. Dialing in your athletic stance takes practice but pays major dividends. Here are some tips:
Stand with feet about shoulder-width apart staggered slightly. Knees bent, weight centered not leaning. Avoid standing flat-footed or upright.
Hold your stick firmly out front with hands apart – bottom hand near the butt, top hand on the shaft. This provides optimal catching leverage.
Keep your stick cradled across your body, head up and eyes focused downfield. Stay light on your toes ready to move.
Focus on dropping into an athletic crouch quickly from a standstill. The faster you can react, the better.
During drills, concentrate on catching passes from your stance. Don’t relax technique – the more you replicate proper form, the more natural it will feel.
Keep Your Eyes on the Ball for Clean Catches
For lacrosse players, keeping your eyes continuously locked on the ball is a fundamental skill leading directly to success. But it’s often easier said than done once the heat is on. Here are some tips for honing your eye-tracking abilities:
Start by intentionally watching the ball all the way from the passer’s stick into your own pocket on catches. Don’t glance down or lose focus for even a split second.
During passing drills, concentrate on tracking the ball’s entire flight path with laser-like focus. Have a partner mix up speeds and angles.
Look to catch passes above your shoulders when possible for easier tracking. Use your peripherals to scan for defenders, then quickly refocus back on the ball.
If you lose sight briefly, don’t panic. Stay calm and quickly regain visual lock. Repetition ingrains keeping your eyes fixed on the ball as a habit.
Use Two Hands for More Control Catching Passes
Securing passes with two hands on your stick gives maximum control and leverage for cradling. Here are some tips on developing solid two-hand technique:
When receiving passes, spread your hands apart – about shoulder-width is ideal. Top hand near the throat, bottom hand towards the butt end.
As the pass comes, flex your bottom hand slightly to give. Then firmly clamp down with your top hand to trap the ball in the pocket.
Keep both hands soft and active after the catch to smoothly transition into cradling right away.
Practice clean two-hand catches from different angles – over the shoulder, backhand, quick sticks. The more repetition, the more natural it becomes.
Cradling and catching with two hands gives you optimal control. This skill is crucial for taking your game up a notch!
Perfect Quick Stick Passes to Teammates
As a lacrosse player, having lightning-quick stick skills is an incredible asset for moving the ball and keeping defenders off balance. Here are tips for mastering the art of the quick stick pass:
Start by receiving a pass from a partner stationary, then immediately return it without cradling first. Focus on smooth acceleration into the pass back.
Next, add movement – passing on the run or after a dodge. Concentrate on securing the catch then quickly firing back accurately.
Vary the catch types – over the shoulder, sidearm, between your legs. Rapidly twist your body into the return pass.
Perfect the timing of your hands through repetition. The shorter your hands are on the stick, the faster you can reload.
Incorporate quick sticks into fast break drills. Fluidly hit leading teammates in transition – this skill translates directly.
Defenders hate quick stick passing. It keeps them guessing while you operate at top speed. Master this technique to become a dangerous playmaker!
Increase Passing Power with Proper Form
Generating velocity on your passes requires proper mechanics and technique. Here are tips for adding more heat on your passes:
Step into your pass, don’t just rely on arm strength alone. Rotate your hips and shoulders for momentum.
Whip your stick aggressively through the throwing motion and follow through completely towards your target.
Engage your entire core and legs to transfer power from the ground up. Keep your balance.
Lead with your front foot and drive off your back foot. Mastering body mechanics is key for passing heat.
Refine your form during repetitive passing drills. Proper technique allows you to deliver lasers even when fatigued late in games.
Throwing rockets makes hitting small passing windows easier and can blow by goalies. Dial in your mechanics to showcase your arm talent!
Lead Receivers to Connect Passes
Hitting teammates in stride with accurate lead passes is an integral skill. Here are some tips on mastering the lead pass:
Assess your teammate’s speed and direction and anticipate where they’ll be in a few seconds. Identify passing lanes to lead them into space.
Aim your pass slightly ahead of their current body position. Underleading causes them to reach back or slow up.
Gauge proper timing and distances through repetition. Communicate with teammates to dial in lead passes.
Lead harder for sprinting teammates or on fast breaks when they’re at top speed. Timing is everything.
Drill lead passes to teammates making various cuts at game speed. It’s a nuanced skill but translates on game day.
Throwing pinpoint leading passes demonstrates vision, precision passing, and field awareness. Master this technique to enhance offensive flow.
Keep Your Eyes on the Ball for Clean Catches
For lacrosse players, keeping your eyes continuously locked on the ball is a fundamental skill leading directly to success. But it’s often easier said than done once the intensity ramps up. Here are some tips for honing your eye-tracking abilities:
Start by intentionally watching the ball all the way from the passer’s stick into your own pocket on catches. Don’t glance down or lose focus even for a split second.
During passing drills, concentrate on tracking the ball’s entire flight path with laser-like focus. Have a partner mix up speeds and angles to keep you sharp.
Look to catch passes above your shoulders when possible for easier tracking. Use your peripherals to scan for defenders, then quickly refocus back on the ball.
If you lose sight briefly, don’t panic. Stay calm and quickly regain visual lock. Repetition ingrains keeping your eyes fixed on the ball as a habit.
Use Two Hands for More Control Catching Passes
Securing passes with two hands on your stick gives maximum control and leverage for cradling. Here are some tips on developing solid two-hand technique:
When receiving passes, spread your hands apart – about shoulder-width is ideal. Top hand near the throat, bottom hand towards the butt end.
As the pass comes, flex your bottom hand slightly to give. Then firmly clamp down with your top hand to trap the ball in the pocket.
Keep both hands soft and active after the catch to smoothly transition into cradling right away.
Practice clean two-hand catches from different angles – over the shoulder, backhand, quick sticks. The more repetition, the more natural it becomes.
Cradling and catching with two hands gives you optimal control. This skill is crucial for taking your game up a notch!
Perfect Quick Stick Passes to Teammates
As a lacrosse player, having lightning-quick stick skills is an incredible asset for moving the ball and keeping defenders off balance. Here are tips for mastering the art of the quick stick pass:
Start by receiving a pass from a partner stationary, then immediately return it without cradling first. Focus on smooth acceleration into the pass back.
Next, add movement – passing on the run or after a dodge. Concentrate on securing the catch then quickly firing back accurately.
Vary the catch types – over the shoulder, sidearm, between your legs. Rapidly twist your body into the return pass.
Perfect the timing of your hands through repetition. The shorter your hands are on the stick, the faster you can reload.
Incorporate quick sticks into fast break drills. Fluidly hit leading teammates in transition – this skill translates directly.
Defenders hate quick stick passing. It keeps them guessing while you operate at top speed. Master this technique to become a dangerous playmaker!
Increase Passing Power with Proper Form
Generating velocity on your passes requires proper mechanics and technique. Here are tips for adding more heat on your passes:
Step into your pass, don’t just rely on arm strength alone. Rotate your hips and shoulders for momentum.
Whip your stick aggressively through the throwing motion and follow through completely towards your target.
Engage your entire core and legs to transfer power from the ground up. Keep your balance.
Lead with your front foot and drive off your back foot. Mastering body mechanics is key for passing heat.
Refine your form during repetitive passing drills. Proper technique allows you to deliver lasers even when fatigued late in games.
Throwing rockets makes hitting small passing windows easier and can blow by goalies. Dial in your mechanics to showcase your arm talent!
Lead Receivers to Connect Passes
Hitting teammates in stride with accurate lead passes is an integral skill. Here are some tips on mastering the lead pass:
Assess your teammate’s speed and direction and anticipate where they’ll be in a few seconds. Identify passing lanes to lead them into space.
Aim your pass slightly ahead of their current body position. Underleading causes them to reach back or slow up.
Gauge proper timing and distances through repetition. Communicate with teammates to dial in lead passes.
Lead harder for sprinting teammates or on fast breaks when they’re at top speed. Timing is everything.
Drill lead passes to teammates making various cuts at game speed. It’s a nuanced skill but translates on game day.
Throwing pinpoint leading passes demonstrates vision, precision passing, and field awareness. Master this technique to enhance offensive flow.
Use Two Hands for More Control Catching Passes
Securing passes with two hands on your stick gives you maximum control and leverage for cradling. Developing solid two-hand technique is crucial for taking your catching skills to the next level. Here are some tips:
When receiving passes, spread your hands apart on the stick handle – about shoulder-width is ideal. Top hand should be near the throat of the head, bottom hand towards the butt end.
As the pass comes in, flex your bottom hand up slightly to give. This cushions the impact. Then clamp down firmly with your top hand to trap the ball.
Keep both hands soft and active after the catch to seamlessly transition into cradling right away. Avoid death-gripping the stick.
Practice clean two-hand catches from all angles – over the shoulder, backhand, quick sticks. Repetition ingrains proper technique.
Cradling and catching with two firm hands gives you maximum control over the ball. Make this skill second nature through practice.
Perfect Quick Stick Passes to Teammates
As a lacrosse player, having lightning-fast stick skills is an incredible asset for moving the ball quickly and keeping defenders off balance. Here are tips for mastering the art of the quick stick pass:
Start by receiving a pass from a partner stationary, then immediately return it without cradling first. Focus on smooth acceleration into the pass back.
Next, add movement – passing on the run or after a dodge. Concentrate on securing the catch then quickly firing back accurately.
Vary the catch types – over the shoulder, sidearm, between your legs. Rapidly twist your body into the return pass.
Perfect the timing of your hands through repetition. The shorter your hands are on the stick, the faster you can reload.
Incorporate quick sticks into fast break drills. Fluidly hit leading teammates in transition – this skill translates directly.
Defenders hate quick stick passing. It keeps them guessing while you operate at top speed. Master this technique to become a dangerous playmaker!
Increase Passing Power with Proper Form
Generating velocity on your passes requires proper mechanics and technique. Here are tips for adding more heat on your passes:
Step into your pass, don’t just rely on arm strength alone. Rotate your hips and shoulders for momentum.
Whip your stick aggressively through the throwing motion and follow through completely towards your target.
Engage your entire core and legs to transfer power from the ground up. Keep your balance.
Lead with your front foot and drive off your back foot. Mastering body mechanics is key for passing heat.
Refine your form during repetitive passing drills. Proper technique allows you to deliver lasers even when fatigued late in games.
Throwing rockets makes hitting small passing windows easier and can blow by goalies. Dial in your mechanics to showcase your arm talent!
Lead Receivers to Connect Passes
Hitting teammates in stride with accurate lead passes is an integral skill. Here are some tips on mastering the lead pass:
Assess your teammate’s speed and direction and anticipate where they’ll be in a few seconds. Identify passing lanes to lead them into space.
Aim your pass slightly ahead of their current body position. Underleading causes them to reach back or slow up.
Gauge proper timing and distances through repetition. Communicate with teammates to dial in lead passes.
Lead harder for sprinting teammates or on fast breaks when they’re at top speed. Timing is everything.
Drill lead passes to teammates making various cuts at game speed. It’s a nuanced skill but translates on game day.
Throwing pinpoint leading passes demonstrates vision, precision passing, and field awareness. Master this technique to enhance offensive flow.
Cushion Catches by Giving With Your Stick
Learning to ‘give’ with your lacrosse stick helps cushion passes and gain control. As a ball is thrown, gently flex your stick back towards your body to absorb the impact. Then smoothly transition into cradling forward to move with the pass. This slight give allows for cleaner catches.
Timing the give takes practice, but soon becomes instinctual. Initiate the subtle flex back just as the ball is arriving to cushion it perfectly. Too early and you’ll bounce the pass. Too late and it will deflect off a rigid stick.
Only give a few inches back on your stick – overdoing it can cause loss of control. Keep your top hand firm during the give to maintain your hold. Once the ball lands in the pocket, snap back into cradling.
Giving on catches is especially useful for hard, high-velocity passes. It takes the sting out of the impact for better ball control. With repetition, you’ll give the ideal amount on every catch.
Perfect Quick Stick Passes to Teammates
As a lacrosse player, having lightning-fast stick skills is an incredible asset for moving the ball quickly and keeping defenders off balance. Here are tips for mastering the art of the quick stick pass:
Start by receiving a pass from a partner stationary, then immediately return it without cradling first. Focus on smooth acceleration into the pass back.
Next, add movement – passing on the run or after a dodge. Concentrate on securing the catch then quickly firing back accurately.
Vary the catch types – over the shoulder, sidearm, between your legs. Rapidly twist your body into the return pass.
Perfect the timing of your hands through repetition. The shorter your hands are on the stick, the faster you can reload.
Incorporate quick sticks into fast break drills. Fluidly hit leading teammates in transition – this skill translates directly.
Defenders hate quick stick passing. It keeps them guessing while you operate at top speed. Master this technique to become a dangerous playmaker!
Increase Passing Power with Proper Form
Generating velocity on your passes requires proper mechanics and technique. Here are tips for adding more heat on your passes:
Step into your pass, don’t just rely on arm strength alone. Rotate your hips and shoulders for momentum.
Whip your stick aggressively through the throwing motion and follow through completely towards your target.
Engage your entire core and legs to transfer power from the ground up. Keep your balance.
Lead with your front foot and drive off your back foot. Mastering body mechanics is key for passing heat.
Refine your form during repetitive passing drills. Proper technique allows you to deliver lasers even when fatigued late in games.
Throwing rockets makes hitting small passing windows easier and can blow by goalies. Dial in your mechanics to showcase your arm talent!
Lead Receivers to Connect Passes
Hitting teammates in stride with accurate lead passes is an integral skill. Here are some tips on mastering the lead pass:
Assess your teammate’s speed and direction and anticipate where they’ll be in a few seconds. Identify passing lanes to lead them into space.
Aim your pass slightly ahead of their current body position. Underleading causes them to reach back or slow up.
Gauge proper timing and distances through repetition. Communicate with teammates to dial in lead passes.
Lead harder for sprinting teammates or on fast breaks when they’re at top speed. Timing is everything.
Drill lead passes to teammates making various cuts at game speed. It’s a nuanced skill but translates on game day.
Throwing pinpoint leading passes demonstrates vision, precision passing, and field awareness. Master this technique to enhance offensive flow.
Step Towards Passes to Meet Them in Midair
Aggressively moving your feet and stepping towards passes helps secure possession in lacrosse. Rather than waiting static for the ball, explode forward to intercept it mid-flight. This boosts control and momentum through the catch.
As the pass is released, take a quick trigger step to meet the ball. Time your footwork and body position to converge at the point of reception. Let your motion carry you into the catch.
Vary stance and angles – step forward, backward, or sideways based on pass location. Keep athletic on the balls of your feet to react quickly. Meeting passes halfway amplifies catching power.
Incorporate stepping drills into your training. Call for passes then aggressively go get them. Let your momentum become an advantage, not a hindrance. Intercepting passes midair takes your skills up a level!
Perfect Quick Stick Passes to Teammates
As a lacrosse player, having lightning-fast stick skills is an incredible asset for moving the ball quickly and keeping defenders off balance. Here are tips for mastering the art of the quick stick pass:
Start by receiving a pass from a partner stationary, then immediately return it without cradling first. Focus on smooth acceleration into the pass back.
Next, add movement – passing on the run or after a dodge. Concentrate on securing the catch then quickly firing back accurately.
Vary the catch types – over the shoulder, sidearm, between your legs. Rapidly twist your body into the return pass.
Perfect the timing of your hands through repetition. The shorter your hands are on the stick, the faster you can reload.
Incorporate quick sticks into fast break drills. Fluidly hit leading teammates in transition – this skill translates directly.
Defenders hate quick stick passing. It keeps them guessing while you operate at top speed. Master this technique to become a dangerous playmaker!
Increase Passing Power with Proper Form
Generating velocity on your passes requires proper mechanics and technique. Here are tips for adding more heat on your passes:
Step into your pass, don’t just rely on arm strength alone. Rotate your hips and shoulders for momentum.
Whip your stick aggressively through the throwing motion and follow through completely towards your target.
Engage your entire core and legs to transfer power from the ground up. Keep your balance.
Lead with your front foot and drive off your back foot. Mastering body mechanics is key for passing heat.
Refine your form during repetitive passing drills. Proper technique allows you to deliver lasers even when fatigued late in games.
Throwing rockets makes hitting small passing windows easier and can blow by goalies. Dial in your mechanics to showcase your arm talent!
Lead Receivers to Connect Passes
Hitting teammates in stride with accurate lead passes is an integral skill. Here are some tips on mastering the lead pass:
Assess your teammate’s speed and direction and anticipate where they’ll be in a few seconds. Identify passing lanes to lead them into space.
Aim your pass slightly ahead of their current body position. Underleading causes them to reach back or slow up.
Gauge proper timing and distances through repetition. Communicate with teammates to dial in lead passes.
Lead harder for sprinting teammates or on fast breaks when they’re at top speed. Timing is everything.
Drill lead passes to teammates making various cuts at game speed. It’s a nuanced skill but translates on game day.
Throwing pinpoint leading passes demonstrates vision, precision passing, and field awareness. Master this technique to enhance offensive flow.
Catch Above Your Shoulders for Best Control
Lacrosse is a fast-paced, exhilarating sport that requires precise stick skills to move the ball effectively up and down the field. Two of the most fundamental lacrosse techniques are passing and catching the ball. Mastering these skills allows you to confidently possess the ball, set up plays, and score goals.
While passing and catching may seem straightforward, there are small details that separate average from elite. By focusing on proper hand positioning, weight transfer, and follow-through, you can take your passing and catching to the next level. Here are 15 tips to improve your lacrosse passing and catching:
Passing Tips
- Get in an athletic stance with your feet shoulder-width apart, knees bent, and weight centered.
- Hold the bottom of the stick handle firmly in your dominant hand, and loosen the top hand grip to allow some flex in the stick.
- Rotate your hips and shoulders towards your target.
- Step towards your target with the opposite foot as your bottom hand.
- Whip the stick through the throw, snapping your wrists for added velocity.
- Follow through with your stick arm extended towards the target.
- Lead your teammate to open space with your pass.
- Vary the speed and trajectory of your passes to keep the defense guessing.
- Practice passing to teammates on the move to work on timing and accuracy.
Catching Tips
- Extend your stick arm with the head up towards the ball.
- Keep your eyes on the ball and watch it all the way into your stick pocket.
- Give with the ball by pulling your stick arm back slightly upon catching to cushion the impact.
- Secure the ball in your stick by wrapping your thumb over the rim of the head.
- Tuck your elbow into your core and rotate your body away from pressure after catching.
- Catch above your shoulders for best control, moving the ball out of your stick quickly.
- Work on one-handed catches to improve hand speed and coordination.
- Practice catching passes thrown to either side of your body.
- Communicate with teammates before passes so you’re ready to catch.
Implementing these tips and techniques will build more confident, consistent passing and catching. Here are some drills to ingrain proper mechanics:
Partner Passing Drills
- 10-yard stationary passing – Focus on mechanics and accuracy
- Ladder passing – Take turns passing back and forth while shuffling through a ladder
- 2-man weave – Pass back and forth while running crisscross around each other
- Triangles passing – Form triangle with 3 players, pass clockwise and counter-clockwise
- 4 corners – Stand in box formation, pass clockwise, counter-clockwise, across, and diagonal
Catching Drills
- Over-the-shoulder catches – Have partner throw passes over your shoulder to work on coordinating body position
- Quick stick catches – Take passes with defenders checking you to improve hand speed
- One-handed catches – Alternate one-handed catches to strengthen hand-eye coordination
- Bad passes – Take intentionally errant passes to practice adjusting your body and stick mid-catch
- Blind catches – Turn your back to partner and catch over the shoulder passes
Wall Ball
Throwing and catching against a wall improves hand quickness, accuracy, and individual fundamentals. Try these wall ball variations:
- 10 righty catches, 10 lefty catches – Alternate hands
- Catch high, low, to sides – Work on adjusting body position
- Behind-the-back catches – Improve hand-eye coordination
- Quick sticks against wall – Catch and throw back as quickly as possible
- Add dodges and fakes – Incorporate footwork and fakes
Mastering lacrosse passing and catching takes time and repetition. But focusing on proper mechanics and hand positioning will put you on the path to becoming a gifted passer and receiver. As you gain confidence in your abilities, you’ll lift your whole lacrosse game to new heights.
Perfect Quick Stick Passes to Teammates
As a lacrosse player, having crisp and accurate passes is essential for effectively moving the ball around the field. While all passing fundamentals are important, the quick stick pass – catching and immediately passing to a teammate in one fluid motion – is an invaluable weapon in a lacrosse player’s arsenal.
Executing quick stick passes allows you to keep the ball moving under pressure, maintain offensive rhythm, and keep the defense off-balance. By mastering proper quick stick mechanics, you’ll become a terrific facilitator for your team’s offense.
Here are 15 tips to perfect your quick stick passing:
Receiving the Ball
- Flex your knees and get in an athletic stance to be ready to pass immediately.
- Focus your eyes on the ball into your stick and watch it all the way in.
- Extend your stick arm out to meet the pass.
- Absorb the pass by pulling your stick arm back slightly upon catching.
- Keep the stick relaxed to cushion the pass – don’t squeeze tight.
- Catch above your shoulders for optimum control.
Transition to Passing
- Immediately scan the field as the ball is in flight to spot your next pass.
- Snap your wrists upon catching to whip the ball out of your stick.
- Take a short stride or rotate your hips towards your target as you pass.
- Follow through with your stick pointed toward the teammate.
- Make eye contact with the teammate you’re passing to.
Lead Your Teammate
- Put the pass slightly ahead of your teammate so they don’t have to slow down.
- Pass to the side of the body that keeps their stick ready.
- Call out your teammate’s name right before passing to alert them.
- Use backspin to make passes easier to handle.
- Vary pass speed and trajectories to keep the defense guessing.
Handle Defensive Pressure
- Protect your stick with your body from poke checks.
- Cut down passing lanes with proper spacing and ball position.
- Use quick ball fakes before passing to freeze defenders.
- Roll away from pressure towards open space after passing.
- Pass before the defense is set for easier completions.
Mastering when to utilize the quick stick pass comes with time and experience. Here are some key quick stick situations:
- Passing to cutting teammates dodging to the cage
- Moving the ball quickly around the perimeter against the zone
- Outlet passes to start the transition game
- Dump passes back to midfielders under pressure
- Fast breaks to catch the defense flat-footed
Drilling quick stick passing will ingrain the footwork, vision, and instant decision-making required at game speed. Here are some great practice drills:
Quick Stick Drills
- 3-man weave with quick sticks
- Rapid fire catch and passes with a partner
- Quick sticks off the wall with a defender checking
- 7-man rotation with one touch passes
- Triangle passing forcing quick sticks under pressure
Mastering quick stick passing requires honing your hand-eye coordination to seamlessly catch and release the ball in one slick motion. With repetition, you’ll gain the ability to make crisp passes on the move and under pressure. Your teammates will appreciate the quick ball movement that leads to open shots and goals.
Increase Passing Power with Proper Form
Delivering crisp, accurate passes is a fundamental skill for any lacrosse player. While solid passing technique is important, generating sufficient power is equally vital to hit teammates in stride anywhere on the field.
Without velocity on your passes, defenders have more time to react and interrupt the play. Developing a strong lacrosse pass requires using proper mechanics to transfer power from your lower body through to your stick.
Here are 15 tips to create stronger, harder lacrosse passes:
Lower Body Fundamentals
- Adopt an athletic stance with knees bent and feet shoulder-width apart.
- Rotate your hips back as you prepare to pass.
- Shift your weight onto your back foot as you wind up.
- Drive off your back leg as you swing through the pass.
- Step towards your target with your front foot.
- Follow through with your weight fully transferred to your front side.
Core and Upper Body Motion
- Turn your shoulders perpendicular to your target.
- Rotate your torso as you swing your arms.
- Use your abs to coil and uncoil as you pass.
- Swing your stick arm across your body.
- Point your front elbow at the target as you follow through.
- Whip your stick with speed on the swing through.
Hand and Arm Technique
- Grip bottom hand tight, relax the guide hand grip.
- Push bottom hand out and pull guide hand in.
- Lock out your elbow as you extend towards the target.
- Allow wrists to roll over through the pass.
- Snap wrists upon release for extra velocity.
- Follow through with arm fully extended.
Strategies for Power
- Lead with your bottom hand for more control.
- Use your legs and core to initiate stick motion.
- Release at the 3 o’clock position for torque.
- Point stick directly at target on follow through.
- Imagine throwing through the receiver’s chest.
- Utilize stick flex by shifting top hand early.
Drills for Passing Power
Integrating these strength and mechanics tips into your practice will yield big passing power gains. Useful drills include:
- Wall ball – fire passes against wall focusing on mechanics
- Step and throws – work on driving lower body into passes
- Partner speed passes – build arm strength with rapid fire hard passes
- Distance competitions – see who can throw farthest pass
- Hitting targets – aim for cones or goals from different angles
Gaining lacrosse passing power is not complicated, but does require diligent practice. With sound technique and a strong lower body, you’ll be whipping crisp passes upfield past sprawling defenders. Your teammates will develop confidence in receiving your timely, on-target passes anywhere on the field.
Lead Receivers to Connect Passes
Delivering accurate passes to teammates is a fundamental lacrosse skill. While throwing proper spirals and generating velocity are important, truly connecting on passes requires leading receivers to the ball.
Leading teammates requires reading defenses, understanding positioning, and throwing balls purposefully off-target to hit receivers in stride. Mastering the nuances of leading passes opens up new angles and opportunities in the offense.
Here are 15 tips to better lead your lacrosse passes:
Read the Defense
- Identify where defenders are shaded to anticipate their movements.
- Locate the closest slide defender prepared to help.
- Note defenders body position – are their hips open or closed?
- Pick up visual cues like stick checks and footwork.
- Observe how teammates are being played – tight or given space.
Lead the Receiver
- Pass towards space ahead of the cutter’s path.
- Throw to lead the shoulder of the stick side.
- Aim passes away from the defender’s direct pressure.
- Loft over sticks if needed for defenders in lanes.
- Adjust speed and spin for receiver’s momentum.
Consider Angles
- Lead upfield to hit cutters on the run.
- Aim cross-body on passes to either sideline.
- Drop passes behind to hit curlers.
- Flick passes outside the frame against good positioning.
- Throw where only your teammate can run down the ball.
Connect Passes
- Establish early eye contact before passing.
- Communicate signals and cut directions with teammates.
- Use peripheral vision to see the next pass developing.
- Look defenders off before throwing opposite.
- Use quick ball fakes to hold defenders before passing.
Drills to Lead Passes
Practice leading receivers in different game situations:
- 3v2 fast breaks – hit cutters on the run
- Triangle passing – work angles to both sides
- Perimeter rotations – shoulder leads on skip passes
- Pick and rolls – loft passes over defenders
- Cutters iso – fake and lead away from pressure
Mastering the skill of leading teammates takes time, repetition, and game experience. But proper preparation, reading defenses, and purposeful passing will get receivers the ball in stride with space to operate. Dialed in passing precision leads directly to improved offensive efficiency and more lacrosse goals.
Use Fake Passes to Confuse Defenders
In lacrosse, defenders are constantly reading and reacting to anticipate passes and disrupt the offense. While solid passing fundamentals are crucial, integrating fake passes into your game can keep defenders off balance.
Effective ball fakes require precise stick handling, coordinated footwork, and purposeful deception. Executed well before passing, fakes create hesitation, confusion, and openings in the defense to connect passes.
Here are 15 tips to sell convincing fake passes that trick defenders:
Stick & Body Positioning
- Shift your hands apart on the stick to allow quick fakes.
- Hold the stick vertically with the ball exposed to sell the fake.
- Rock your weight onto your back hip as if loading up.
- Turn your shoulders perpendicular as if you’re passing across.
- Snap your wrists and point your stick to target the fake.
Footwork & Movement
- Plant your back foot and step as if you’re passing.
- Shuffle your feet laterally like you’re throwing cross-field.
- Roll your shoulders away from defenders after the fake.
- Cut hard after the fake pass to get separation.
- Use jab steps and change of pace to setup fakes.
Vision & Awareness
- Pinpoint receiver locations before and after fakes.
- Scan the defense as you fake to identify reactions.
- Sell the fake pass then spot the next pass immediately.
- Vary fakes depending on defenders’ positioning.
- Fake opposite the eventual pass to draw defenders away.
Maximize Deception
- Look directly at the fake target when you sell it.
- Call out fake receiver names to influence defenders.
- Fake hard passes with fast snaps for real reactions.
- Follow your fake pass trajectory with your eyes.
- Wait for defenders to bite before moving into your true pass.
Drills for Selling Fakes
- 2-man fakes – Work on baiting defender reactions
- Triangle fakes – Fake cross-field before hitting third man
- ally dodges with fakes – Incorporate footwork into deception
- Defenders on back – Fakes with live dummy defenders
- Fake feeds to crease – Look off defenders before dumping
Fake passing is an advanced technique that can elevate any lacrosse player’s distributing game. By mastering realistic fakes before passing, you’ll keep defenders constantly guessing wrong, creating open passing lanes to attack the defense.
Pass to Open Space for Easier Catches
As any experienced lacrosse player knows, crisp and accurate passing is crucial for moving the ball up the field and setting up scoring opportunities. While having a cannon for an arm certainly helps, proper technique and smart decision making are just as important when it comes to delivering perfect passes. On the receiving end, soft hands and quick reflexes make catching passes easier, but moving into open space is an underrated way to ensure receptions. Let’s explore 15 tips that can help take your lacrosse passing and catching to the next level.
Passing Tips
When you have possession and are looking to pass, keep these techniques in mind:
- Get your hands apart on the stick, with your bottom hand about two-thirds of the way down the shaft. This gives you more control and aiming ability.
- Cradle the ball in the pocket, not sitting on the head. This will allow for a quicker release.
- Step towards your target as you pass. Don’t just rely on your arms – use your whole body.
- Flick your wrists and follow through completely after release. This adds velocity and accuracy.
- Keep your stick parallel to the ground. An angled stick will send the ball high or into the turf.
- Look where you want the pass to go, not at the ball. This helps direct your stick better.
- Pass to open space, leading the teammate if they’re on the move.
- Use different passing styles – overhand for power, sidearm for quicker release.
It’s also important to be smart about your passing choices. Don’t force a pass through heavy traffic or to a closely defended teammate. Be patient, wait for passing lanes to open up or for teammates to get open.
Catching Tips
To be a good receiver for those passes:
- Get your hands apart on the stick, bottom hand halfway down the shaft, to give you more control.
- Extend your stick arm out to present a target for the passer.
- Keep your stick motionless as the ball arrives – don’t stab at it.
- Watch the ball into your pocket, don’t take your eyes off it.
- Give with the ball as it hits your pocket to absorb the impact.
- Use two hands to pull your stick into your body and secure the ball.
- Tuck your elbow into your side to protect the stick after catching.
- Cradle quickly after the catch to keep the ball secure.
Positioning yourself in space makes catching so much easier. Here are some tips:
- Cut to open areas of the field, away from defenders.
- Time cuts so you get open just as a teammate has the ball.
- Plant your feet and don’t drift after getting open – stay put!
- Present your stick as a target after your cut.
- Communicate to teammates where you’re moving to.
- Use picks and screens to get open from defenders.
Drills to Improve Passing
Here are some great lacrosse passing drills to work on:
- Two-line passing: Form two lines 5-10 yards apart, pass down and back.
- Rapid passing: Players stand in circle and quickly pass around.
- Sidearm ONLY: Only throw sidearm passes, even long ones.
- Running passes: Lead a moving teammate to work on aiming.
- Catch and pass: Take a catch before immediately passing.
- Deflected passes: Toss tennis balls to deflect passes.
Drills for Better Catching
Some great lacrosse catching drills include:
- Over-the-shoulder: Work on catching passes from behind you.
- Low bouncers: Field skipped passes for challenging catches.
- Rolling balls: Toss ball along ground to work on picking up ground balls.
- Bad passes: Deliberately throw off target to practice catches.
- Intercepting: Work on picking off poor passes.
- Blind catches: Take off eyewear briefly to catch passes.
Mastering these lacrosse passing and catching techniques takes time and repetition. But improving these fundamental skills is crucial for taking your game to the next level. With the right drills and mindset, you’ll be zipping crisp passes and hauling in difficult catches in no time!
Communicate With Teammates While Passing
Crisp passing and skillful catching are integral skills in lacrosse. But often overlooked is the importance of communication between teammates during passing sequences. By talking to each other and calling out cues, players can connect passes more successfully. Let’s go over 15 tips to take your lacrosse passing, catching and communication to the next level.
Passing Communication Tips
As the passer, make sure to:
- Call out recipient’s name before passing.
- Say “ball’s coming” as you pass.
- Tell teammate where you’re aiming the pass.
- Warn if a defender is closing in.
- Remind teammate to keep their stick ready.
- Suggest open spaces for recipient to move to.
- Confirm recipient is ready before delivering pass.
Clear communication ensures your teammate is prepared to receive the pass. It also lets defenders know you’re looking to pass.
Receiving Communication Tips
As the intended receiver:
- Call for the ball when open: “I’m here!” or “Over here!”
- Make eye contact with the passer.
- Tell passer if you need them to lead you with the pass.
- Confirm you’re ready by shouting “Ready!”
- If not open yet, say “Wait!” or “Hold!”
- Thank passer if the pass is accurate.
Letting the passer know you’re open and ready keeps the offense flowing smoothly.
Passing Technique
Of course, communication works best alongside proper passing mechanics:
- Cradle ball in pocket, hands apart on stick.
- Step towards target on pass.
- Flick wrists for velocity.
- Follow through fully after release.
- Keep stick parallel to ground.
- Look to open space, not ball.
- Use overhand and sidearm passing motions.
With sound technique and positioning, your passes will be crisp and catchable.
Catching Technique
Receivers should also use proper catching approach:
- Extend stick arm to present target.
- Watch ball into pocket, eyes on it all the way.
- Absorb impact by giving with the ball.
- Use two hands to pull into body.
- Tuck elbow into side after catch.
- Quickly cradle ball to keep secure.
- Cut to open space away from defenders.
Combined with communication, these catching fundamentals will have you hauling in passes easily.
Passing Drills
Drills to sharpen passing include:
- Two-line passing: Practice back and forth passing between two lines.
- Rapid passing: Quickly pass around in a circle.
- Sidearm only: Work on sidearm passing technique.
- Running passes: Lead moving teammates to connect passes.
Focus on communication cues during these drills to improve connections.
Catching Drills
Add communication emphasis to catching drills like:
- Blind catches: Take off eyewear then receive passes.
- Behind-the-back: Catch passes thrown behind you.
- Intercepting: Call out cues as you pick off passes.
- Deflected passes: Use tennis balls to deflect passes.
Mastering lacrosse passing and catching takes practice. But loud, clear communication makes completing passes much simpler. Use voice commands, acknowledge cues, and clarify intentions. You’ll be connecting precision passes in no time!
Practice Makes Perfect – Drills to Hone Skills
Ask any great lacrosse player how they perfected their passing and catching abilities, and they’ll tell you – it takes practice, practice, practice! Drilling lacrosse fundamentals repetitively is crucial for developing stick skills. Let’s explore 15 drills to take your passing, catching, cradling and scooping to elite levels.
Passing Drills
Here are some excellent passing drills:
- Two-line passing: Form two lines facing each other about 10 yards apart and simply pass back and forth.
- Speed passing: Players stand in a circle and rapidly pass the ball around clockwise and counter-clockwise.
- Dodging into passing: Incorporate dodges and rolls before passing to a teammate.
- Perimeter passing: Position players around the crease area and pass the ball around the perimeter.
- Deflected passing: Use tennis balls or bounce passes to deflect the ball as you pass.
Catching Drills
Some excellent catching and reaction drills:
- Rapid fire catching: Take shots on goal but have a teammate standing nearby to catch rebounds and quickly pass back.
- Box drill: Four players stand in a box formation, quickly passing and catching laterally around the box.
- Scramble drill: Players scramble around the center of the field, randomly passing to anyone they can.
- Interception drill: Defenders work on picking off passes.
Scooping and Cradling Drills
Drill ground ball scooping with:
- Scatter drill: Coach tosses balls all around the field to scoop up.
- Ground ball line drills: Roll ground balls to each player in line to scoop and pass down the line.
- Scramble drill: Toss out loose balls for players to scramble for.
- Cradling maze: Set up cones to weave through while cradling the ball.
Passing Tip Reminders
When practicing passing, remember to:
- Get hands apart and bottom hand halfway down shaft.
- Step towards target when passing.
- Flick wrists and follow through after release.
- Keep stick parallel to the ground.
- Look to lead teammate, not at ball.
- Use overhand and sidearm motions.
Catching Tip Reminders
When catching passes, be sure to:
- Extend stick arm out as target.
- Watch ball all the way into pocket.
- Absorb impact by giving with pass.
- Use two hands to pull ball into body.
- Immediately cradle ball once caught.
- Cut to open space without defenders.
Mastering lacrosse fundamentals requires dedication and practice. But commit to skill-building drills and you’ll see major improvements. Stay positive, focus on proper form, and keep working. Your hands and stick skills will be ascending to pro levels soon!
