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Latest coaching articles and tactical notes.
Finishing inside in women’s lacrosse requires quick decision-making and precise shooting to capitalize on close-range opportunities. By maintaining composure and using strategic positioning, players can effectively score when near the goal.
A crease defender in women’s lacrosse is a defensive player responsible for protecting the area around the goal, particularly against attackers who operate behind or near the goal line extended (GLE). The primary objective of the crease defender is to prevent the attacker from getting into the middle of the field, close to the goal, and to force them wide or away from dangerous scoring areas.
the ABCDs of effective 1-on-1 defense in women’s lacrosse: Approach, Break down, Contact, and Drive. By mastering these fundamentals, players can improve their defensive positioning, disrupt offensive attacks, and prevent fouls.
Teaching the double team in women’s lacrosse focuses on effective communication, positioning, and timing. By recognizing opportunities when an attacker is vulnerable, such as during a roll dodge or when their vision is obstructed, defenders can execute a double team to force turnovers and disrupt the play.
Double-teaming in women’s lacrosse is a defensive strategy used to trap an attacker, apply pressure, and create turnovers, especially in critical game moments. To avoid penalties like shooting space violations and the three-second rule, defenders must communicate effectively and execute the double team with proper timing and positioning.
Zone defense in women’s lacrosse is a strategy where defenders cover specific areas of the field, focusing on clogging high-risk scoring zones, such as the 8-meter arc, while following key rules like avoiding shooting space violations and the three-second rule. This approach is effective against strong offensive players but requires strong communication and quick rotation to prevent gaps and potential scoring opportunities.
Catching a lacrosse ball may seem simple, but mastering this skill is essential for fluid, effective play. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, learning the correct technique for catching helps you control the game, protect the ball, and make faster moves on the field. In this guide, we cover the key steps to improve your catching technique, from providing a clear target to using "soft hands" for control.
Throwing a lacrosse ball with accuracy and control is a foundational skill that every player needs to master. This guide covers the essential techniques, from hand positioning to follow-through, so that players can learn to throw effectively, maintain precision, and control the ball with confidence.
A crease violation in men’s lacrosse occurs when an offensive player steps into the goalie’s crease, resulting in a turnover. The enforcement and penalties for this violation vary slightly between youth, high school, college, professional, and international play.
In men’s lacrosse, tripping occurs when a player uses their stick or body to intentionally or unintentionally make an opponent fall. The resulting penalty can range from 1 to 3 minutes, depending on the severity of the infraction.
Cradling in women’s lacrosse is one of the most essential skills for maintaining ball control and setting up offensive plays. It involves a smooth, rhythmic motion combining wrist and arm movement to keep the ball secure in your stick. With proper hand placement, a relaxed grip, and the ability to cradle at different levels, players can protect the ball from defensive checks while on the move. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your technique, mastering the cradle is key to advancing your game and keeping possession during crucial moments.
The 8-meter restricted area is one of the most crucial zones in women’s lacrosse. It protects the critical scoring area and ensures that defenders do not illegally obstruct attackers. Understanding how this zone functions is key to grasping the dynamics of both offense and defense in the game.
