Defense + checks

Men's Lacrosse Skills and Technique content filed under Defense, checks.

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Men's Lacrosse Skills and Technique members

The Back Check: A Defender’s Secret Weapon

By Joe Juter

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.

Men's Lacrosse Skills and Technique members

How to Execute the Rusty Gate Check in Men’s Lacrosse

By Joe Juter

The Rusty Gate Check is a flashy, high-risk defensive maneuver in men’s lacrosse where a defender swings their stick around their back to dislodge the ball from an opponent. While impressive, it requires precision and timing to avoid penalties and maintain defensive positioning.

Men's Lacrosse Skills and Technique members

How to throw an over the head check

By Joe Juter

The benefit of throwing an over-the-head check in men's lacrosse is that it can effectively dislodge the ball from the opponent's stick, creating turnover opportunities and disrupting their offensive play. This check also applies significant defensive pressure, forcing the ball carrier to make quick decisions, which can lead to mistakes. Additionally, a successful over-the-head check can intimidate and frustrate the opponent, giving your team a psychological advantage.