How to Execute an Effective Jump Shot in Women's Lacrosse
The jump shot in women's lacrosse follows a similar technique to men's lacrosse, but with some considerations due to differences in strength, style, and the equipment used. Here’s how to perform it correctly in women’s lacrosse:
1. Starting Position
Begin by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart and your hips aligned with the target (the goal). If you’re right-handed, you should be slightly to the right side of the goal and vice versa for left-handed players.
Hold the stick with both hands (the lower hand close to the base of the stick) as you prepare for your movement.
2. Preparing the Move
Chop your feet: Before performing the jump shot, it’s essential to make a small fake or chop with your feet to throw off your defender and put her off balance. This will give you more space to move forward.
Split step: Take a long step with one leg (for example, if you’re right-handed, step with your left foot) while beginning to rotate your hips and shoulders toward the goal.
3. The Jump
As you perform the split step, jump off the foot closest to the goal (for example, if you’re right-handed, jump off your right foot).
While jumping, make sure to keep the stick as far from your body as possible to maximize shot power and to maintain flexibility in the movement.
4. Body Alignment and Hip Rotation
During the jump, rotate your hips toward the goal. This rotation is key as it helps generate the power necessary for a strong shot.
Your hips and torso should be aligned with the goal to ensure that the shot's force is directed toward the target.
5. Executing the Shot
While airborne, extend your arm holding the stick as far back as possible, maintaining flexibility. The farther your arm is back, the more powerful the shot will be.
Follow through with the shot: As you take the shot, ensure you follow through with the movement of your entire body. Your opposite leg should move to help you rotate and deliver a stronger, more accurate shot.
Remember, you can adjust the height of your shot. The jump shot allows you to control whether you take a high shot (for the top corner) or a low shot (for a lower angle).
6. Landing and Recovery
When you land after jumping and shooting, make sure to land on the foot closest to the goal to maintain balance and be ready for the next play.
The key here is fluidity and quickness. The jump shot is effective because it doesn’t take much time to execute, making it difficult for defenders or the goalie to react.
Additional Tips:
Use change of pace: The jump shot should not only be a shot but also part of a quick movement where you fake your defender out, leaving her behind with a quick move before executing the jump.
Consistent practice: The jump shot is challenging to master, especially while on the run, so practice is essential. Work on your agility, jumping, and stick control so your shots become more effective.
Summary:
The jump shot in women’s lacrosse is a technique that combines speed, agility, and power. It involves making a jump while taking a controlled and precise shot. The key lies in fluid movement, controlled jumping, and hip rotation, which helps generate power and accuracy in the shot. With practice, this shot becomes a very powerful tool in the game, allowing players to take advantage of fast-moving opportunities to shoot while in motion.
