The V-Hold: An Essential Defensive Technique in Lacrosse

The V-hold is an essential defensive technique that every new lacrosse defender should know. It’s a go-to move for controlling an opponent’s movement, keeping them out of dangerous areas, and forcing them into less threatening positions on the field—particularly between the Goal Line Extended (GLE) and the 5x5 area.

How to Teach the V-Hold to New Players:

1. Hand Positioning

• Bottom Hand: Grip close to the butt end of the stick.

• Top Hand: Hold the stick closer to the middle of the shaft.

• Forearm Contact: When done correctly, the defender’s forearm will make contact with the offensive player.

• The “V” Formation: The angle between the forearm and the stick forms the characteristic “V” shape.

2. Body Positioning

• Stay Between the Opponent and the Goal: Keep the body directly between the ball carrier and the goal.

• Hip Alignment: Hips should remain square to the opponent.

• Athletic Stance: Maintain a low, balanced stance to react quickly.

• Avoiding Penalties: The common penalty with this move is holding. In lacrosse, a holding penalty is called when a player illegally impedes an opponent’s movement by using their stick or body to hold, grab, or restrain them. Having your stick in front of the player without good body position often leads to this being called.

4. Executing the V-Hold in Action

• Stick Placement: Place the stick in front of the attacker’s path to impede progress.

• Forming the V-Shape: Create the V between the stick and elbow, effectively squeezing the ball carrier between the arm and stick.

• Control Movement: Use this position to guide the opponent away from dangerous areas.

5. Forcing Direction

• Turning Back Attackers: When an attackman dodges from behind the goal, the defender can use the V-hold to turn them back. but this is done with body position, not the stick.

• Dictating Play: The defender controls where the opponent can go, disrupting offensive strategies.

6. Dislodging the Ball

• Lifting the Bottom Hand: The V-hold allows the defender to get under the attacker’s bottom hand.

• Stick Checks: Come down on the attacker’s hands to disrupt cradling or passing.

• Stick Positioning: Slip the stick between the attacker’s stick and body to lift and dislodge the ball.

Conclusion

The V-hold is a simple yet highly effective technique that should be a staple in every new defender’s skill set. By mastering the V-hold, defenders can dictate the terms of engagement, steering offensive players into less threatening areas where they are less likely to score. This control not only minimizes the opponent’s scoring opportunities but also enhances the overall defensive strength of the team.

Tips for Coaches:

• Demonstrate the Technique: Show players the correct form and allow them to practice in slow-motion drills.

• Emphasize Safety: Ensure that players understand how to use the V-hold without committing fouls or causing injuries.

• Reinforce with Drills: Incorporate the V-hold into defensive drills to build muscle memory.

• Provide Feedback: Offer constructive feedback to help players refine their technique.

By teaching and reinforcing the V-hold, coaches can help new defenders become more confident and effective on the field.