Defending Behind the Goal
Defending behind the goal in women's lacrosse requires maintaining inside positioning, staying above the goal line extended, and shadowing the attacker until she commits to a side. By beating the attacker to where the crease meets the goal line extended and keeping her outside the eight-meter arc, the defender limits high-percentage scoring opportunities and effectively controls the play.
Off Ball Defense
communication, and awareness to dictate the attacker's movement and provide support. By maintaining proper positioning, staying balanced, and directing an attacker's movement, defenders can control the game rather than simply reacting, ultimately shutting down even the most aggressive offenses.
Backer Zone Defense in Women’s Lacrosse: A Guide for New Coaches
The Backer Zone Defense in women’s lacrosse combines structured zone coverage with a floating backer who supports defenders near the 8-meter arc, focusing solely on the ball and providing critical help in high-pressure situations. This strategy emphasizes communication, forcing attackers into controlled areas, and effectively managing cutters and weak-side threats.
Defending the Crease
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 1-on-1 Defense in Women’s Lacrosse
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.
Executing the Double team
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.
Understanding Zone Defense in Women’s Lacrosse
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.
Understanding Shooting Space in Women’s Lacrosse when coaching defense
Shooting space in women’s lacrosse is a safety rule that prevents defenders from stepping into the path between an attacker and the goal, unless they are within a stick’s length of the attacker. Violating this rule results in a penalty, awarding the attacker an 8-meter free shot while ensuring safe play on the field.