LaxPlaybook LaxPlaybook

Library section

Men's Lacrosse Skills and Technique

Skill progressions for shooting, dodging, stick work, footwork, and player development.

The Three Non-Negotiable Rules for Effective Stick Checks in Defense
Men's Lacrosse Skills and Technique members

The Three Non-Negotiable Rules for Effective Stick Checks in Defense

Learning how to throw stick checks the right way is essential for new defenders.This guide explains the three non-negotiable rules every defense player must follow:1) Keep your position.2) Use your arms before the stick.3) Rely on quantity, not power.

How to Train Alone in Lacrosse
Men's Lacrosse Skills and Technique members

How to Train Alone in Lacrosse

Training alone is one of the fastest ways for a lacrosse player to develop skills, fix weaknesses, and build confidence. This guide shows coaches how to teach players a simple structure for effective solo training. By following these steps, any athlete can improve stick skills, shooting, dodging, conditioning, and creativity all without needing a partner.

The Ice Pick Check in Lacrosse: A Step-by-Step Guide
Men's Lacrosse Skills and Technique members

The Ice Pick Check in Lacrosse: A Step-by-Step Guide

The ice pick check is a high-risk but powerful defensive move in lacrosse. It requires timing, precision, and awareness of the opponent’s momentum. This guide breaks down the technique into clear, coach-friendly steps. It also explains the key points to teach young players how to throw it effectively while minimizing mistakes.

The Kayak Check
Men's Lacrosse Skills and Technique members

The Kayak Check

The front kayak check is a powerful lacrosse defensive move that combines body positioning, timing, and stick control to disrupt attackers. Learn the step-by-step mechanics and when to use it effectively.

Mastering the Back Slap and Back Check in Lacrosse Defense
Men's Lacrosse Skills and Technique members

Mastering the Back Slap and Back Check in Lacrosse Defense

The back slap and back check are powerful defensive techniques that help defenders disrupt an attacker’s dodge and regain possession. By timing your movement and striking with precision, you can knock the ball free while keeping your footwork fast and balanced.

How to Teach the Rusty Gate Check in Lacrosse Defense
Men's Lacrosse Skills and Technique members

How to Teach the Rusty Gate Check in Lacrosse Defense

The Rusty Gate Check is one of the most exciting defensive moves in lacrosse. It can look flashy, but when taught correctly, it’s a valuable tool for defensemen. This article breaks down two ways to throw the Rusty Gate Check, from the safer method to the riskier version, with clear instructions and coaching points.

How to Throw the Over-the-Head Check in Lacrosse
Men's Lacrosse Skills and Technique members

How to Throw the Over-the-Head Check in Lacrosse

The over-the-head check is a powerful defensive move when used at the right time. By combining timing, hand speed, and precise stick placement, defenders can disrupt an attacker’s cradle and knock the ball free. This guide explains two variations and key points for coaches to teach.

Shooting on the Run: Unlocking Power and Precision in Lacrosse
Men's Lacrosse Skills and Technique

Shooting on the Run: Unlocking Power and Precision in Lacrosse

Executing an effective shot on the run is a crucial skill in sports like lacrosse. It involves a combination of movements and body adjustments that allow players to make powerful and accurate shots even while in motion. Mastering this technique improves reaction time, control, and shot power, resulting in more unpredictable and harder-to-defend plays.

The Back Check: A Defender’s Secret Weapon
Men's Lacrosse Skills and Technique members

The Back Check: A Defender’s Secret Weapon

The back check is the defender’s ambush—quiet, lethal, and all about timing. You’re not swinging for glory; you’re waiting for that moment when the offensive player gets sloppy with his cradle, then whap—plastic on plastic, ball on turf. This isn’t a desperate hack from behind. It’s calculated, it’s practiced, and when done right, it flips the script behind the cage without drawing a flag.