90-Minute Boy’s Lacrosse Practice Plan: Cradling Focus
Practice Overview:
This 90-minute boy’s lacrosse practice is designed for youth beginner players, focusing on the essential skill of cradling the ball. Divided into 6 segments of 15 minutes each with one drill per segment, this plan aims to develop fundamental lax techniques. As a coach, you’ll guide the boys through engaging drills that improve their cradling ability, which is crucial for ball control and overall lacrosse performance.
Segment 1 (0:00 – 15:00): Warm-Up and Cradling Basics
Drill: Cradling Fundamentals
• Description:
• Begin the practice with a dynamic warm-up, including jogging, high knees, butt kicks, and arm circles to prepare the boys for lacrosse activities.
• Introduce cradling basics by demonstrating proper hand placement on the lax stick, the motion of cradling, and the importance of keeping the ball secure.
• Have the boys spread out and practice stationary cradling, focusing on using both dominant and non-dominant hands.
• Coaching Points:
• Emphasize the “top hand” doing the work while the “bottom hand” guides the stick.
• Encourage smooth, rhythmic motion to keep the ball in the pocket.
• Coaches should provide individual feedback to ensure proper technique.
Segment 2 (15:00 – 30:00): Walking Cradling Drill
Drill: Walking Cradle Progression
• Description:
• Have the boys line up on one sideline.
• Players walk across the field while cradling the ball, first using their dominant hand, then returning with their non-dominant hand.
• Increase the pace gradually to a light jog as they become more comfortable.
• Coaching Points:
• Focus on maintaining control of the ball while moving.
• Reinforce proper posture and stick positioning away from the body.
• Encourage eyes up to simulate game situations.
Segment 3 (30:00 – 45:00): Obstacle Course Cradling
Drill: Cradling Obstacle Course
• Description:
• Set up an obstacle course using cones and agility poles.
• Players navigate through the course while cradling the ball, incorporating changes in direction and speed.
• Emphasize using both hands by switching hands at designated points.
• Coaching Points:
• Highlight the importance of protecting the stick from defenders.
• Encourage quick hand transitions and maintaining control under pressure.
• Provide tips from the playbook on evading opponents while cradling.
Segment 4 (45:00 – 60:00): Partner Pressure Cradling
Drill: Cradling Under Pressure
• Description:
• Pair up the boys; one is the offensive player cradling the ball, and the other applies light defensive pressure.
• The offensive player moves within a designated area while protecting the ball from the defender.
• Switch roles after a set time to ensure equal practice.
• Coaching Points:
• Teach the boys to use their bodies to shield the stick.
• Reinforce keeping eyes up to be aware of surroundings.
• Coaches should monitor for safe play and provide feedback on technique.
Segment 5 (60:00 – 75:00): Cradling Relay Races
Drill: Cradling Relay
• Description:
• Divide the team into equal groups for a relay race.
• Set up a course where players run to a cone and back while cradling the ball.
• Incorporate hand switches and changes in direction to increase difficulty.
• Coaching Points:
• Promote a fun, competitive atmosphere to keep the boys engaged.
• Emphasize speed while maintaining control of the ball.
• Encourage teamwork and cheering on teammates.
Segment 6 (75:00 – 90:00): Cradling Scrimmage
Drill: Controlled Scrimmage with Cradling Focus
• Description:
• Conclude the practice with a small-sided scrimmage (e.g., 4v4) emphasizing cradling skills.
• Encourage players to apply the cradling techniques learned during practice in a game-like setting.
• Stop play periodically to highlight good examples or correct mistakes.
• Coaching Points:
• Remind players to protect their sticks and maintain control under defensive pressure.
• Reinforce communication and team play as per the lacrosse playbook.
• Provide positive reinforcement to build confidence.
Additional Notes:
• Equipment Needed:
• Lacrosse sticks, balls, cones, agility poles, and pinnies for teams.
• Safety Considerations:
• Ensure all boys are wearing appropriate protective gear as per lacrosse regulations.
• Monitor for signs of fatigue and provide water breaks as needed.
• Focus on Fundamentals:
• Cradling is a foundational skill in lax; mastering it will enhance overall game performance.
• Encourage practice at home to reinforce skills learned during practice.
• Communication:
• Promote open communication throughout drills to build teamwork.
• Coaches should maintain an encouraging and supportive tone.
By following this 90-minute practice plan, coaches can effectively develop beginner boy’s lacrosse players’ cradling skills through engaging and age-appropriate drills. This practice emphasizes the fundamentals of lax, ensuring that each boy gains confidence and improves his abilities on the field.
