Teaching Ground Balls Skills

To teach a young beginner in girls’ lacrosse how to pick up a ground ball, focus on the basic technique and keep the instructions straightforward:

1. Get Low: Highlight the importance of lowering the body by bending the knees and getting close to the ground. This position allows the player to approach the ball more effectively and maintain balance, making the scoop easier and more efficient.

2. Proper Hand Placement: Instruct the player to grip the stick with both hands—dominant hand positioned near the top of the shaft and non-dominant hand closer to the bottom. This grip enhances control and leverage, facilitating a quick scoop of the ball.

3. Scoop Through the Ball: Teach them to slide the head of the stick under the ball in a smooth, continuous motion. It’s essential to scoop through the ball rather than stopping at it, ensuring the ball is lifted cleanly into the pocket of the stick.

4. Follow Through: Once the ball is secured in the stick, instruct the player to swiftly bring the stick up to a protected position near their head. This follow-through is important for keeping possession of the ball and getting ready for the next move, whether it’s running or passing.

5. Keep Your Eyes on the Ball: Encourage them to maintain focus on the ball throughout the entire process, from approaching it to scooping and securing it in their stick. Keeping their eyes on the ball helps improve accuracy and ensures they remain focused.

Tips for Effective Instruction:

• Positive Reinforcement and Practice: Praise their efforts and motivate them to keep practicing, even if they don’t get it right immediately. Consistent practice is essential for building muscle memory.

• Show and Tell: Demonstrate the proper technique yourself or have a more experienced player show them. Young players often learn better by observing and imitating.

• Keep it simple: Use clear, simple language to keep the instructions easy to understand and avoid overwhelming them. Focus on one part of the skill at a time.

By breaking down these steps and reinforcing them with drills and encouragement, you can help young girls quickly grasp the skill of picking up ground balls, building a solid foundation for their lacrosse development.