How to select the ideal pop up lacrosse crease for home training. What are the key factors to consider when buying a portable lacrosse goal. Which brands offer the best quality and value for backyard practice nets.

The Benefits of Owning a Pop Up Lacrosse Crease

Investing in a portable lacrosse crease for your backyard can significantly enhance your skills and overall game performance. Here are some key advantages:

• Unlimited practice opportunities
• Improved shooting accuracy
• Enhanced goalie training
• Facilitates small-group drills
• Encourages creativity and experimentation

How does a portable crease improve shooting accuracy? By providing frequent opportunities for repetition, players can refine their shooting technique, particularly for high-percentage shots like bounce shots and quick sticks. The more you practice on your own crease, the more natural and precise your shooting motion becomes.

Can goalies benefit from having a backyard crease? Absolutely. A portable crease allows goalies to face live shots regularly, improving their ability to read different shot types and react quickly. They can also set up various drills to practice footwork, positioning, and clearing techniques.

Key Factors to Consider When Buying a Lacrosse Crease

Selecting the right portable lacrosse crease requires careful consideration of several factors:

Frame Construction

What makes a good crease frame? Look for lightweight yet sturdy materials like steel or aluminum. These provide a rigid, bounce-back structure that can withstand repeated shot impacts. Avoid plastic frames, as they often lack the necessary strength for long-term use.

Netting Quality

Which type of netting is best for a lacrosse crease? Opt for 10mm to 12mm knotless polyethylene netting. This material offers excellent rebound properties and durability. Steer clear of cheaper nylon nets that tend to sag over time.

Portability

How important is portability in a lacrosse crease? Very important, especially for home use. Consider creases that fold down into compact carrying cases. Ideally, choose a size that fits easily in your car trunk, with quick and simple setup.

Dimensions

What size should a backyard lacrosse crease be? While regulation size is 9ft x 9ft, smaller creases in the 6ft x 6ft to 8ft x 8ft range are often more practical for home use. Ensure the interior goal mouth opening meets the minimum 6ft x 6ft requirement.

Top Brands for Lacrosse Goal Creases

When investing in a lacrosse crease, brand reputation matters. Here are some top manufacturers known for producing high-quality portable creases:

1. Bownet
2. Guardian
3. Skippy
4. EZGoal
5. Rukket

Why are these brands considered top choices? They consistently produce durable, well-designed creases that withstand regular use. Many offer excellent warranties and customer support, ensuring your investment is protected.

Setting Up Your Portable Lacrosse Crease

Once you’ve chosen your portable crease, proper setup is crucial for optimal performance and longevity.

Choosing the Right Location

Where should you set up your lacrosse crease? Select a flat, level area in your backyard with enough space for shooting and movement. Avoid placing the crease near windows or other breakable objects.

Assembly Tips

How can you ensure proper assembly of your portable crease? Follow these steps:

1. Carefully read the manufacturer’s instructions
2. Lay out all components before starting
3. Assemble the frame first, ensuring all connections are secure
4. Attach the netting, starting from the top and working your way down
5. Double-check all fastenings and tension the net evenly

Is it necessary to stake down your portable crease? In most cases, yes. Many creases come with stakes or sandbags to secure them. This prevents tipping during use and protects against wind.

Maintenance and Care for Your Lacrosse Crease

Proper maintenance can significantly extend the life of your portable lacrosse crease.

Cleaning

How often should you clean your lacrosse crease? Clean your crease at least once a month, or more frequently if used heavily. Use mild soap and water to remove dirt and debris from both the frame and netting.

Storage

What’s the best way to store a portable lacrosse crease? When not in use, disassemble the crease and store it in its carrying case. Keep it in a dry, cool place to prevent rust and mildew.

Repairs

How can you address minor damages to your crease? For small tears in the netting, use nylon thread to stitch the hole closed. For frame issues, contact the manufacturer for replacement parts or repair advice.

Enhancing Your Practice with a Portable Crease

A portable lacrosse crease opens up numerous training possibilities. Here are some ways to maximize its use:

Solo Drills

What solo drills can you practice with a portable crease?

• Shooting accuracy: Set up targets within the goal
• Quick stick drills: Practice rapid fire shots
• Dodging to shooting: Work on your footwork and shot placement
• Goalie clear practice: Set up cones as “receivers” and practice outlet passes

Partner Drills

How can you incorporate a partner in crease practice?

• One-on-one situations: Alternate as attacker and defender
• Passing drills: Practice give-and-go scenarios
• Goalie and shooter practice: Work on different shot types and angles

Small Group Training

Can you use a portable crease for team training? Absolutely. Here are some ideas:

• Man-up/man-down scenarios
• Fast break drills
• Clearing and riding practice
• Small-sided scrimmages

Advanced Features in Modern Portable Creases

As lacrosse equipment evolves, portable creases are incorporating new features to enhance training.

Shot Clocks

How do built-in shot clocks benefit practice? They add a realistic time pressure element to your training, helping you develop quick decision-making skills under game-like conditions.

Rebounders

What advantage do attached rebounders offer? They allow for solo passing practice and can simulate unpredictable bounces, improving your reaction time and stick skills.

Target Sheets

How do target sheets enhance shooting practice? By providing specific areas to aim for, target sheets help improve accuracy and teach players to place shots strategically within the goal.

When considering these advanced features, weigh their benefits against the additional cost. While they can certainly enhance your training, a basic, high-quality crease can still provide excellent practice opportunities.

Comparing Portable Creases to Permanent Goals

While permanent lacrosse goals have their place, portable creases offer unique advantages for home practice.

Flexibility

How does a portable crease provide more flexibility than a permanent goal? You can easily move it to different locations in your yard or even take it to a park or friend’s house for practice.

Storage

What storage benefits do portable creases offer? Unlike permanent goals, you can disassemble and store your portable crease when not in use, freeing up yard space and protecting it from harsh weather.

Cost

Are portable creases more cost-effective than permanent goals? Generally, yes. Portable creases are often less expensive and don’t require installation costs or potential permit fees associated with permanent structures.

While permanent goals might be suitable for some situations, the versatility and convenience of portable creases make them an excellent choice for most home practice setups.

The Benefits of Owning Your Own Pop Up Lacrosse Crease

Having your own portable lacrosse crease offers significant advantages for players looking to improve their game. Setting up a practice crease in your backyard provides opportunities to get extra reps in on shooting, dodging, and goalie training outside of organized team practices.

Owning your own crease means you can work on your stick skills anytime inspiration strikes, without having to wait for field time. Frequent shooting practice improves shooting accuracy, particularly high-percentage shots like bounce shots and quick sticks. The more you shoot on the crease, the more natural your shooting motion will become.

Goalies benefit from having a crease as well. Repetition facing live shots helps goalies read different types of shots and react quickly. A crease allows goalies to set up breakaway and odd-man situational drills to practice making saves from different angles. Portable creases give goalies flexibility to train footwork, positioning, and clearing through repetitive drills.

In addition to individual skill work, portable creases facilitate small-group training. You can hold mini lacrosse games working on game situations like man-up, man-down, and fast breaks. Use the crease to run drills on riding, clearing, and faceoffs with just you and a few friends or teammates.

Having your own practice crease fosters creativity and experimentation in training. You can try out new dodging moves, shooting techniques, passing patterns, and other skills without the pressure of a real game. The privacy of a backyard crease gives you freedom to fail and learn.

When shopping for a portable lacrosse crease, durability and stability are key factors. Look for solid yet lightweight frames that can withstand impact from shots and checks. Trusted brands like Bownet, Guardian and Skippy provide well-designed pop-up creases perfect for home use.

Investing in a high-quality portable crease pays dividends by accelerating your development as a player. The added repetitions and creativity will translate directly to improved performance on the field.

Key Factors To Consider When Buying A Lacrosse Crease

Purchasing your own lacrosse crease is an exciting investment in improving your skills. However, not all creases are created equal. There are a few key factors to consider when selecting a portable lacrosse goal crease for your backyard practice sessions.

First, examine the crease frame construction. High quality creases use lightweight yet sturdy steel or aluminum to create a rigid, bounce-back frame. Plastic frames often lack the strength to withstand repeated shot impacts. Look for thick tube construction, preferably powder coated for weather resistance.

Next, check the netting. 10mm to 12mm knotless polyethylene netting provides excellent rebound and durability. Avoid cheaper nylon nets that can sag over time. Opt for full net backs to catch wild shots and keep the ball in play.

Portability is another essential crease feature. Can the frame fold down into a portable carrying case? What size is the case – can it fit in your car trunk? Compact creases around 6ft x 6ft strike the best balance of portability and regulation size. Make sure the crease sets up quickly and easily as well.

Regulation dimensions are ideal but not always practical for backyard use. While 9ft x 9ft is standard, smaller creases in the 6ft x 6ft to 8ft x 8ft range offer sufficient space for practice. Just ensure the interior goal mouth opening meets 6ft x 6ft minimum size requirements.

Consider extra features like diagonal cross-supports for added frame stability or duffel bag-style carrying cases with shoulder straps. Some creases include a shot clock or attachments like rebounders. Add-ons boost functionality but can drive up cost.

Lastly, look at crease reviews and the manufacturer warranty. Established brands like Bownet, Guardian andSkippy offer at least 1-year warranties on frame defects. See what other players say about setup, durability and customer service.

While price often reflects quality, decent portable creases can be found in the $250 to $500 range. Sale prices under $200 require closer inspection for cut corners. Remember – a well-built crease should last years with proper care.

Taking the time to research crease options using these factors as a guide will ensure you select a high-performing and lasting lacrosse goal for your home practice needs. Don’t settle for flimsy temporary nets. Invest in a premium portable crease to maximize your training time and progress.

Top Brands For Lacrosse Goal Creases

When investing in a lacrosse crease for your backyard, the brand matters. Reputable manufacturers produce high-quality, durable creases designed to enhance practice. Here are some of the top brands to consider when shopping for a portable lacrosse goal.

Bownet: Bownet is one of the most trusted names in portable lacrosse goals. They offer a range of crease options from the budget-friendly Bownet Throwback to premium models like the PowerAlley Lacrosse Crease. Bownet creases feature sturdy steel frames, 10mm knotless netting, and carrying bags for portability. Perks like shot clocks, rebounders, and cross-supports make their creases well-suited for intense backyard practice.

Guardian: Guardian focuses on lacrosse goals built to replicate regulation sizes. Their CreaseMate lacrosse goal folds down into a duffel carrying case but sets up to a full 9ft x 9ft frame with a 6ft x 6ft goal mouth. The powder coated steel tube construction and 12mm knotless polyethylene nets make them built to last through seasons of use. Guardian’s 2-year warranty provides peace of mind.

Skippy: Skippy takes a customizable approach with their ProHop lacrosse goals. Start with a standard 6ft x 6ft steel frame goal then add rebounders, wraparound netting, golf cage attachments and more. While pricier, you can tailor it exactly for your training needs. Quick set-up and solid performance make Skippy creases a sound investment.

Gladiator: Gladiator lacrosse goals offer an affordable option without sacrificing durability. Their lacrosse creases fold into compact duffel bags for easy transport and storage. While a bit smaller than regulation at 7ft x 7ft, the heavy-duty steel frames stand up to high-velocity shots. Gladiator’s 1-year warranty provides added buyer protection.

STX: Known for lacrosse gear, STX makes quality creases like the STX BounceBack. Its 8ft x 8ft treated aluminum frame and 10mm knotless polyethylene nets make it their most durable portable goal. The folding frame fits in an oversized duffel bag. STX’s 1-year warranty is on the shorter side but their brand reputation instills confidence.

Rukket: Rukket specializes in portable sports practice equipment. Their lacrosse bundle includes a 6ft x 6ft netted goal frame along with a rebounder and carry bag. The powder coated steel frame folds up neatly and their dual-padding design prevents pole vibrations. Rukket offers a 30-day trial period for even more peace of mind.

While there are other crease brands, these consistently rise to the top in terms of quality, performance and durability. Do your research, read reviews and look for comprehensive warranties from reputable manufacturers. The right crease will enhance your training exponentially and last for years to come.

Setting Up And Using Your New Portable Lacrosse Crease

You just purchased a new pop-up lacrosse crease and you’re excited to start using it for practice. Here’s a step-by-step guide to properly set up and utilize your portable lacrosse goal crease for optimal backyard training.

First, carefully unfold the crease frame according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Many portable creases fold up into compact carrying cases then unfold and lock into place. Take care not to pinch your hands as the steel or aluminum poles extend.

Next, secure the frame joints and cross-supports. Quality creases use strong pin, bolt and clamp fastening systems. Tighten frame connectors firmly and ensure support straps are taut. The frame should feel rigid with no loose joints.

Now orient the goal frame so the 6ft x 6ft interior goal mouth faces your shooting position. Anchor the back corners using the provided stakes for added stability. Consider placing the crease a safe distance from fences, garages, windows or other structures to allow for errant shots.

Attach the netting to the frame using the integrated net hooks, bands, Velcro or other fasteners. Pull the netting taut so there is no sagging in the corners or along the sides. Proper net installation enhances rebound response and keeps shots contained.

For optimal life, frequently check net tension and retighten if needed. Also check frame connections periodically and re-secure any loose bolts or fasteners. Avoid moving the goal over uneven or rocky surfaces to prevent damage.

Now it’s time to start practicing! Initially, take some light warm-up shots to get a feel for the crease’s rebound characteristics. Then run through your standard shooting, passing and cradling drills. Work on accuracy from different angles and distances.

Try more situational drills like dodges and rolls around the crease followed immediately by quick stick shots. Practice your off-hand shooting as well. Defenders can set up inside the crease and work on positioning and checks.

Remember to always maintain complete control when shooting. Avoid aiming at the frame poles or launching risky full-velocity shots. Proper shooting technique improves accuracy while protecting the longevity of your crease.

With a few simple setup steps and some care during use, your pop-up lacrosse crease will deliver years of reliable performance. Just be sure to store it properly when not in use to get the most value from your investment.

Crease Placement and Dimensions For Optimal Practice

Setting up your portable lacrosse crease in the optimal position and size enhances your training and simulates game-like conditions. Here are some tips on placement and dimensions when using your pop-up lacrosse goal crease for practice.

First, consider the surface underneath your crease. Well-trimmed grass or dirt works best to replicate field conditions. Concrete or asphalt can damage crease frames when impacted by shots. Avoid surfaces with large dips or bumps.

Place the crease far enough from any structures like houses, garages or fences to allow for errant shots. Leave ample room to move around the crease as well. However, don’t set it up in an open area exposed to strong winds.

For crease size, regulation is 9ft x 9ft with a 6ft x 6ft interior goal mouth. But for backyard use, smaller creases from 6ft x 6ft to 8ft x 8ft are sufficient for practice. Just ensure the goal mouth meets the 6ft width minimum.

Orientation is key – always place the crease so shots are aimed away from buildings, windows or anything fragile. Angle the crease if needed to provide a safe shooting zone. Stake down the rear corners for added stability.

Use visual markers like cones to establish a “restraining box” 10-15 yards from the crease at the optimal shooting distance. Move further back as your shooting skills progress. Mark off lanes 5 yards on either side of the goal mouth to practice angle shots.

For goalies, position the crease at least 10 feet from any fencing or netting to allow clearance on outlet passes. Set up situational drills at sharp angles to mimic odd-man rushes down the wings during games.

Maintain enough room for dodging, rolling and shooting drills around the crease. Approaching the net at speed improves shooting accuracy. Ensure adequate spacing for 2v2 and 3v3 play as well.

Portable creases allow you to reposition the goal as needed to account for the sun, wind conditions and other factors. Adjust placements regularly to become accustomed to shooting from different angles.

Taking size, surface, surroundings and orientation into account when positioning your lacrosse crease creates a practice area optimized for skills development and game preparation.

Storing Your Pop Up Lacrosse Crease Properly

Your portable lacrosse crease is a significant investment. Properly storing your pop-up lacrosse goal crease between practice sessions will protect it from damage and maximize longevity.

Start by disassembling the crease frame and folding it down into its carrying case per the manufacturer’s instructions. Most quality creases with folding aluminum or steel frames pack down into compact duffel bags or roller bags.

Before collapsing the frame, check for any worn or damaged components. Tighten any loose bolts or fasteners. Also examine the netting for tears or loose stitching and make repairs as needed.

Thoroughly clean the crease frame and netting after each use to prevent buildup of dirt, grass, and moisture from perspiration. A mild detergent and soft brush removes debris that can corrode the frame over time.

Allow all components to dry completely before packing into the storage bag. Moisture trapped in the enclosed crease can lead to mold or rust. Leave the bag unzipped initially to encourage ventilation and drying.

Find a protected, climate-controlled space for storing your crease. Avoid damp basements, garages or sheds subject to extreme temperatures which speed metal corrosion. The ideal storage spot stays between 50-85°F.

Elevate the collapsed crease instead of leaving it directly on concrete floors which may transmit moisture. Shelves or pallets work well. You can also completely unfold the dry crease on occasion to further air it out.

Although portable, lacrosse creases are bulky once packed into their carrying cases. Store the crease somewhere easily accessible without a lot of lifting, tripping hazards or tight squeezes.

Keep other equipment, chemicals or yard tools from piling atop the stored crease. The weight can bend the frame or tear the netting if sharp. Avoid dragging the crease case around as well.

With proper breakdown, cleaning, drying, storage, and handling, your portable lacrosse crease will maintain top performance for many seasons. Taking the time to care for your crease extends its lifespan and protects your investment.

Maintaining Your Lacrosse Goalie Crease

As a lacrosse goalie, a properly maintained crease is critical for peak performance. Applying consistent maintenance protects the quality of your portable lacrosse goal crease for optimal goalie training.

Prior to each practice session, walk the entire crease frame checking for any loose bolts, bent poles, cracked welds or other damage. Tighten hardware and replace components as needed. Test the netting for holes or tearing as well.

Set up the crease on a level surface, stabilizing the rear corners with stakes. Orient the net opening to provide clearance for outlet passes and shots wide of the goal mouth. Anchor with sandbags if needed.

Check net tension frequently, especially on newer creases which stretch with use. Re-tighten loose netting using the integrated ties, straps, hooks or bands per the manufacturer’s instructions. Eliminate any sagging.

During practice, ensure shooters never aim directly at the crease frame or launch full-velocity shots. Strictly enforce controlled shooting only. Absorb shots in your stick then nestle the ball to the turf rather than hitting the frame on clears.

After each session, brush debris from the netting and frame using a soft-bristle brush and clean, damp cloth. Check for signs of wear like metal burrs or cracks. Spot clean any mud or grass stains.

Allow the crease to dry fully before collapsing the frame and storing. Moisture speeds metal corrosion and can cause netting to mildew. Storing in a dry, climate-controlled area prevents damage as well.

Apply a protectant like WD-40 to the frame yearly, targeting joints and intersections which are vulnerable to rust. Re-powder coat every few years if needed.

Replace netting at the first sign of holes, tears or compromised integrity. Quality knotless polyethylene nets last around 5 years with proper care. Budget more time for repairs and maintenance on used creases.

Consistent inspection, cleaning, drying, storage, and timely component replacement ensures your portable lacrosse goal crease provides the responsive rebound and durability needed to elevate your goalie skills.

Using A Backyard Lacrosse Crease For Goalie Training

Adding a portable lacrosse crease to your backyard opens up valuable opportunities for goalie training beyond normal team practices. Here are some of the benefits of an at-home crease for honing your goalie skills.

Frequent shooting practice is essential for goalies. A backyard crease provides endless reps seeing live shots versus relying just on tossing a ball against a wall. The added realism accelerates reflex development.

With your own crease, you control the practice pace and scenarios. Work on situational drills like breakaways, odd-man rushes, behind-the-net feeds and quick sticks to build experience.

Vary shot placement and speed. Calling out shot targets to shooters adds realism. Work on clearing outlet passes after each save as well to practice the full sequence.

Your home crease facilitates trying new techniques in a low-pressure environment versus games. Experiment with save approaches, stick angles, hand positioning, stepping into shots and recovery without fear of mistakes.

Use a portable shot clock to simulate the pressure of end-of-quarter possessions. Develop mental toughness while fatigued through intense, rapid shot batteries.

A backyard crease with rebounder allows solo training on days you can’t coordinate schedules with teammates. Alternate rebounder angle, speed, and shot placement to keep your body and mind engaged.

Set up drills working solely on save fundamentals like stick positioning, body angles, constricting save areas, and clearing technique. Isolating fundamentals instills muscle memory.

The privacy of a home crease lets you work on weaknesses without scrutiny. Spend time on your trouble areas whether high shots, reacting on feeds or shots to your glove side.

Training against the same shooters allows you to study their tendencies. Learn to read footwork, stick angles, release points and other clues to gain an edge.

Consistent training on your personal lacrosse crease accelerates development by ingraining fundamentals through repetition. The added flexibility and control over practice ultimately translates into game confidence.

Solo Lacrosse Shooting Practice With A Crease

Having access to a lacrosse crease opens up opportunities for valuable solo shooting practice when teammates aren’t available. Here are some tips for maximizing your solo training time using a portable lacrosse goal.

Begin each solo session with a dynamic warm-up to elevate your heart rate and get muscles activated. Jogging, skipping, shuffling and bodyweight moves prepare you for the workout ahead.

Start shooting at close range about 8-10 yards out. Focus on proper form – hands out front, transfer weight, follow through straight to the target. Develop touch by hitting both corners and shooting for targeted spots.

Gradually increase distance once you find your accuracy groove up close. Challenge yourself by shooting from beyond your normal range, using proper mechanics. Take time to collect errant balls.

Set up cones or markers as pass targets around the crease. Practice quick stick catches into immediate shots on net. Work both your dominant and weak hand.

Add obstacles like pool noodles to simulate defenders. Execute dodges, rolls and splits followed by quick off-angle shots. React as the ball rebounds back to you for a second scoring attempt.

Mimic game situations by sprinting toward the crease and shooting on the run. Concentrate on footwork and maintaining balance through the shot motion at full speed.

Use a portable shot clock for shooting games. See how many goals you can score in a 2-minute drill or limit shots to just :30 or :45 seconds to replicate a final possession.

For an advanced workout, wear a vest or belt with light weight plates while shooting. The added load strengthens your legs and builds endurance.

Mix up your shot selection – overhands, side arms, behind the back, between the legs. Keep your body guessing by alternating shot types and locations.

Record your sessions to critique form. Watch for lazy mechanics like dropping elbows or leaning back on shots as fatigue sets in. Always reinforce proper technique.

Solo crease sessions build confidence handling the ball under pressure and scoring from tough angles. Competing against yourself burns mental sharpness into your muscle memory.

The Importance of Angle Shooting Practice

Mastering shooting accuracy from sharp angles takes practice. Having your own portable lacrosse crease facilitates drilling the angled shots critical for game success.

Set up cone markers or chalk lines originating from the two goal posts and extending out at 45 degree angles. These represent the alleyways during game play.

Practice shooting from each alleyway while positioned 5-10 yards from the goal line extended. Concentrate on aiming small – pick specific targets like the far pipe or top corners.

As skills improve, move further down the alleys to simulate longer skips and feeds from behind the cage. Adjust approach speed as well – start slow then increase tempo.

Focus on mechanics when shooting on the run from alley angles. Execute tight curls or rolls before approaching the crease. Drive hard off your back leg, stepping toward the target.

Work on cut angle quick-stick shots where a teammate hits you in stride for a catch and immediate release. This replicates fast break goals off outlet passes.

Set up odd-man drill entry from the alleys by dodging toward the crease before shooting. Defenders can apply light pressure.

Practice back-handed alley shots which require torso rotation and hip movement ahead of the stick for accuracy.

As skills build, decrease your shooting angles incrementally to increase difficulty. Challenge yourself by narrowing the shooting window.

Run alley shooting drills along both sides of the crease to build competence shooting right-to-left and left-to-right.

For goalies, practice moving laterally down the alley to cut off angle shots. Step out aggressively while minimizing open net.

Recording alley shooting practice helps you critique form. Ensure you drive through the shot, pointing your bottom hand elbow at the target.

Angle shooting versatility makes defenders play you more honestly, opening cutback lanes for dodging. Consistent alley shot practice on your home crease makes those tough angle goals second nature.

Holding Mini Lacrosse Games and Drills

One major benefit of owning a portable lacrosse crease is the ability to hold mini games and focused drills with just you and a few friends or teammates.

For mini games, set up the crease and boundaries for 1v1, 2v2 or 3v3 scrimmages. Play to 3-5 goals with limited time per possession to keep things fast-paced.

Use cones to mark off a miniature field complete with wings, alleys, restraining lines and a center faceoff X. Play structured rotations following game format.

To maintain realism, enforce penalties like illegal body checks, slashes and cross-checks. Award possession for minor fouls.

Challenge each other by imposing situational modifiers like man-up/man-down, fast breaks, or quickstick goals only. Vary game speed and intensity over time.

Set ground ball competitions by tossing balls randomly around the playing area and battling loose ball scrums.

For drills, take shots on an open net but focus on fundamentals like footwork, dodging, off-hand cradling, or keeping your stick protected.

Practice clears by making a save then running prescribed passing patterns with teammates before attacking the crease.

Run 2-man situational drills like pick and rolls to generate open looks. Switch responsibilities each rep.

Face off against each other at the ‘X’ and battle to gain possession. You can go live or start with a ground ball.

While scrimmages help with conditioning and competition, specialized drills allow concentrated skill development. Vary your training using your home crease.

Transition Shooting Drills Using the Crease

Practice smooth shooting rhythm during live transition scenarios using your home lacrosse crease. Transition drills sharpen your scoring skills when moving at game speed.

Set up with a partner and designated shooting zones about 15 yards from the crease. Start behind the goal line extended. On command, sprint around opposite crease sides.

Time your cuts so you simultaneously reach the near-side shooting zones. Quickly receive an outlet pass from your partner and shoot on goal before the defense can recover.

After the shot, circle back behind the goal line and change directions, repeating the drill from the opposite wings. Vary entry speed to simulate fast breaks.

Stand with your back to the goal during the exchange. Spin on the pass, simulating scanning upfield for cutters before turning to shoot.

Incorporate lateral dodges, jumps and rolls during the approach to evade defenders. Practice shooting immediately off athletic movements.

Add a third player as defense. Start at the center of the crease and try to intercept the pass or block the shot. Cycle defenders each rep.

Push transition speed by catching outlet passes already outside the shooting zones. This removes the wind-up time of rounding the crease.

During the exchange, call “Shot!” or “Pass!” to keep decision-making sharp. Sell fake shots before passing.

Designate weak-hand only reps to improve off-hand catching and shooting during transitions.

Vary entry angles to mimic long clearing passes. Approach the crease laterally to maintain accuracy on the run.

Punish slow reaction time or sloppy footwork by requiring push-ups. Maintain game intensity and focus.

Fluid shooting off crisp transitions collapses defenses. Regular crease transition drills build this critical hidden skill set.

Creative Practice Games to Play with a Portable Crease

Take your lacrosse training up a notch by incorporating fun, competitive shooting games using your portable crease. Creative games break the monotony of drilling while sharpening skills.

Set up rapidfire one-on-one showdowns starting behind the goal line extended. On a whistle, sprint around opposite crease sides. First to 3 goals wins.

Test shot accuracy with games like HORSE or 21. Assign shot difficulty levels and letter/point values. First to spell HORSE or reach 21 points loses.

For endurance, play Time Attack challenging each other to score as many goals as possible within a set time limit like 2 or 5 minutes. Push pace and shot selection.

Play Elimination requiring players to execute a specific skill like behind the backs or bounce shots. A miss means elimination, last one standing wins.

Boost conditioning by adding physical challenges between shots like burpees, push-ups or sprints. Alternate shot types each round.

For goalies, call out random sides like “low right” then shoot there quickly. Vary placement and speed to keep goalies guessing.

Test reaction time by facing away from the goal, then spinning and shooting immediately when the ball touches your crosse.

Add a tennis ball rebounder to play rapid fire catch and shoots. Vary rebound speed and angle for a quick hands challenge.

Go Crossbar Challenge style by hitting crossbar and posts for points. First to an agreed score wins by hitting their targets.

Competing through games enhances focus required during pressure game situations. Make regular crease game days part of your skills and conditioning routine.

Recommendations for the Best Portable Lacrosse Creases

With so many portable lacrosse crease options available, it can be tough deciding which model to buy. Based on key factors like quality, performance, and durability, here are my top recommendations for homeowners and players.

For a premium crease, the Bownet PowerAlley Lacrosse Goal is my top choice. It boasts a rugged steel frame with weather-resistant powder coating and solid triangular base for stability during intense shooting sessions. The 10mm knotless polyethylene netting and wraparound rear net provide excellent rebound response. Easy fold-up design with wheeled bag simplifies storage.

The Skippy ProHop is another top-tier crease constructed from industrial-grade materials to withstand heavy use. Powder coated steel poles, 12mm knotless netting, and sturdy corner supports anchor the frame. Bonus attachments like rebounders, shooting tarps, and golf cages boost functionality. Quick set-up and take-down.

For a budget-friendly yet durable option, the Gladiator LAX-22 Folding Lacrosse Goal is a great choice. It features reinforced steel tubing with powder coated finish, 10mm polyethylene netting, and rear pole banding for ball return. Folds into a compact duffel carrying case. Great entry-level home crease at under $250.

Goalies should consider the Krown Goal King Challenge Pro X80 steel crease for its full 9ft x 9ft regulation size and exceptional rebound response. The offset net design returns hard shots right back to the shooter. Premium components like 32mm corner tubes withstand high-velocity shots from all angles.

Those needing a super portable crease will appreciate the STX BounceBack 50″ x 50″ Pop Up Lacrosse Goal. The lightweight aluminum frame and bungee netting pack down into an oversize backpack for easy transport. Best for tight spaces or frequent repositioning during drills.

While pricing varies based on materials and features, investing in a robust crease made by a reputable brand pays dividends through years of reliable performance. Don’t hesitate to spend a little more for quality construction and durability.

Crease Recommendations for Different Player Levels

With so many portable lacrosse crease options, it can be difficult matching the right goal to your skill level and training needs. Here are my recommendations for creases based on player experience.

Beginners should start with an affordable, durable crease like the Gladiator LAX-22. The steel frame will hold up to frequent use and abuse while the 10mm knotless polyethylene net provides good rebound. Folding design with carrying case offers portability.

Intermediate players seeking to step up their training will appreciate the STX BounceBack. Its 8×8 foot true bounce back net really improves shooting accuracy. The angled side posts promote proper shot mechanics. Quality materials withstand high rep counts.

Advanced and elite players need a crease designed for intense, high-velocity shooting like the Guardian CreaseMate. Its full 9×9 size with regulation 6×6 interior opening mimics game dimensions. Heavy-duty build quality matches college and pro training demands.

Goalies should invest in a premium crease like the Krown Goal King Challenge Pro X90 for its offset netting and super rebound. Built to take thousands of 100+ MPH shots in stride. The regulation size and toughness accelerates goalie development.

Youth players can start with small, budget creases like the Franklin Sports Shooter Lite to learn fundamentals. Its steel frame and PE netting are durable enough for backyard practice. More portable for shooting games on the move.

Those with permanent home installations may opt for anchored creases like the Rukket Sports Complete Lacrosse Training System. In-ground mounting options provide supreme stability for serious players.

No matter your skill level, look for solid construction, quality netting, and portability suited to your training space. Invest in the toughest crease you can afford to maximize durability over years of use. You’ll improve faster with better rebound.