Designated Crease and Two-Man Game Offense: A Versatile Approach
This principles-based offense in lacrosse allows players to excel in roles that highlight their unique skills. The setup combines a crease player, a "quarterback" at X (behind the goal), and two-man games on each side, creating a balanced approach that leverages both individual talent and team coordination to produce scoring opportunities.
1. Crease Player
Positioned right in front of the goal, the crease player serves as a high-priority scoring threat. Their role is to constantly find ways to get open for a quick catch-and-release shot. This player should be particularly adept at catching the ball in tight spaces and finishing quickly. Some players have a natural knack for finding space and getting open, making this an ideal role for those instincts to shine.
2. The X Player (Dodger/Feeder)
The player positioned at X (directly behind the goal) acts as the offense’s "quarterback" and is typically a strong dodger and passer. Ideally, this is your most talented one-on-one dodger, a serious threat to the defense when attacking from behind the goal. They start with the ball whenever it is inbounded from the endline, and their main goal is to initiate plays by challenging their defender in one-on-one situations. By drawing defensive slides, they can quickly feed open teammates, whether it's the crease player for a shot or players in the two-man games on the wings.
Operating from behind the defense gives this player a full-field view, allowing them to control the tempo and flow of the offense. Because they’re also a scoring threat, it’s challenging for the defense to ignore them without risking a breakdown.
3. Two-Man Games on the Wings
On each side of the field, pairs of players run two-man games, using a combination of:
- On-ball picks:** One player sets a pick for their teammate, forcing the defender to fight through or switch. This creates a brief opening for the ball handler, potentially leading to a shot or passing opportunity.
- Off-ball picks:** The off-ball player can set picks for their teammate to create space, enabling open passing lanes.
- Slip picks:** The player setting the pick “slips” out before the defender fully commits, catching the defense off guard and freeing themselves for a quick pass and shot.
- Pick-and-rolls:** Similar to basketball, the player setting the pick rolls toward the goal, creating a scoring chance if they manage to get open.
How It All Works Together
This offense keeps the defense engaged and guessing on multiple fronts:
- **The crease player** is a constant threat, demanding the defense’s attention.
- **The X player** pressures defenders to decide between sliding to help or staying on their man, at the risk of leaving someone open.
- **The two-man games on the wings** introduce a dynamic element, forcing defenders to communicate and switch effectively or risk leaving someone uncovered.
By maintaining movement in multiple areas, this setup pressures the defense to cover all angles around the goal. With so many threats, it’s hard for defenders to collapse on one area without leaving another open, leading to high-percentage scoring chances. This offense also adapts well to what the defense gives, making it challenging for defenders to settle into a rhythm.
