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Men's Lacrosse Skills and Technique

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

The Art of Playing Offense Without the Ball in Lacrosse
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The Art of Playing Offense Without the Ball in Lacrosse

Lacrosse is a team game where only one player has possession at any given time, so the success of an offensive set depends on the movement and intelligence of the other five players off the ball. To be an effective offensive player, focus on four key principles: Create, Cut, Pass, and Anticipate.

Throwing a Fake in Men's Lacrosse
Men's Lacrosse Skills and Technique members

Throwing a Fake in Men's Lacrosse

Throwing a fake in men’s lacrosse involves using wrist movements, body language, and stick control to deceive goalies and defenders, creating scoring opportunities or opening up space for teammates. By practicing different types of fakes, such as wrist fakes or over-the-top fakes, and executing them with purpose and precision, players can elevate their game and keep opponents off balance.

Face-offs in Men’s Lacrosse: Technique and Strategy to Win Possession
Men's Lacrosse Skills and Technique members

Face-offs in Men’s Lacrosse: Technique and Strategy to Win Possession

In men’s lacrosse, face-offs are essential plays that occur at the start of each quarter and after every goal. This battle for possession gives both teams a chance to control the game from the outset. In this article, we delve into what a face-off is, how it’s executed, and why it’s a crucial skill in lacrosse.

How to Catch a Lacrosse Ball
Men's Lacrosse Skills and Technique members

How to Catch a Lacrosse Ball

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.

How to Throw a Lacrosse Ball: Key Steps for Accuracy and Control
Men's Lacrosse Skills and Technique members

How to Throw a Lacrosse Ball: Key Steps for Accuracy and 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.

How to Execute the Rusty Gate Check in Men’s Lacrosse
Men's Lacrosse Skills and Technique members

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

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.

The V-Hold: An Essential Defensive Technique in Lacrosse
Men's Lacrosse Skills and Technique members

The V-Hold: An Essential Defensive Technique in Lacrosse

The V-hold is more than just a defensive move—it’s a way to control the game. By using your stick as a lever and positioning your body effectively, you can steer the ball carrier away from high-percentage shooting areas and dictate the pace of play. This technique allows defenders to maintain pressure without overcommitting, forcing opponents into uncomfortable positions while staying balanced and in control

Cutting off ball
Men's Lacrosse Skills and Technique members

Cutting off ball

Off-ball cutting is all about creating space and opportunities. By constantly moving, reading defenders, and using quick fakes, players can break down defenses and open lanes for passes. Timing and communication with teammates are essential to catching defenders off-guard and increasing scoring chances. Keep moving and stay unpredictable!