4 Across Clear

The 4 Across Clear is a men’s lacrosse clearing formation that uses four players positioned across the field to create multiple passing options as the ball moves out of the defensive end.

The formation spreads the clearing players horizontally, giving the ball carrier several outlets and allowing the team to advance the ball through passes rather than relying on one player to carry the ball upfield.

How the 4 Across Clear Works

The clear begins with the clearing players spread across the field in an across formation.

The players create width and occupy different lanes, making it more difficult for the riding team to cover every passing option at the same time.

As the ball moves, the players adjust their positions and continue to provide outlets.

The objective is simple: create space, move the ball, and advance upfield.

Create Width

Spacing is one of the most important parts of the 4 Across.

Players should avoid collapsing toward the ball. By staying spread across the field, they create larger passing lanes and force the ride to cover more space.

Good width also gives the ball carrier more than one option when pressure arrives.

Move the Ball Through the Formation

The clear does not depend on one specific passing sequence.

The ball carrier reads the ride and passes to the available outlet.

Once the pass is made, the other players continue moving and adjusting their positions so another passing option remains available.

This allows the clearing team to keep the ball moving while working toward midfield.

Read the Ride

The 4 Across is a structure that helps players identify their options.

If one side of the field is pressured, the ball can be moved toward the opposite side.

If a player in the middle becomes available, the clearing team can use that option to advance the ball.

The important part is recognizing where the pressure is coming from and using the open space.

Coaching Points

1. Stay spread out.
Maintain width to create passing lanes.

2. Give the ball carrier an outlet.
Players should stay active and provide clear passing options.

3. Move after the pass.
Continue adjusting your position once the ball moves.

4. Read the ride.
Don't force a pass into pressure. Use the open side of the field.

5. Advance with purpose.
The objective is to move the ball safely out of the defensive end and upfield.

Why Use a 4 Across Clear?

The 4 Across gives a team a simple structure for creating width during a clear.

By spreading players across the field, the formation provides multiple passing options and makes the riding defense cover more space.

The players still need to read the ride and adjust their positioning, but the structure gives them a clear starting point.

Create width. Find the open outlet. Move the ball upfield.