How to Teach Stick Checking in Women’s Lacrosse: A Guide for New Coaches

Stick checking is an essential defensive skill in women’s lacrosse, but it’s also a technique that must be taught with a focus on safety and control. Whether you’re new to coaching or just getting started with the women’s game, understanding and teaching proper checking technique is crucial to keeping players safe while helping them excel. Here’s a breakdown of the key points for teaching stick checks in women’s lacrosse, based on expert insights from experienced coaches.

What is Stick Checking?

In women’s lacrosse, stick checking is the act of using your stick to knock the ball out of an opponent’s stick. However, unlike the men’s game, physical contact and aggressive checking are limited. The main goal is to use quick, controlled checks to disrupt the attacker’s possession while staying within the rules of the game.

1. Proper Body Positioning

Before any stick check is attempted, body positioning is the most critical aspect. Players need to be squared up with their opponent, keeping themselves in a strong defensive stance. Ensure players are a step ahead of the attacker, so they can clearly see the stick and anticipate the attacker’s movements. The idea is to stay in front of the attacker and be ready to react when the ball is exposed.

2. When to Check

A well-timed check can be very effective, but a poorly timed one can lead to fouls or missed opportunities. The best time to check is when the attacker exposes their stick—for example, when they raise their stick to pass or shoot. As a coach, encourage your players to be patient and wait for the right moment, rather than swinging their stick wildly. Defensive players should aim for the corner of the head of the stick, using a quick, precise motion.

3. Stick-to-Stick Contact

In women’s lacrosse, the contact must be stick-to-stick. As soon as the check touches the player’s body, it becomes a foul. Teach your players to focus on making quick, snapping motions with their wrists, not swinging their arms. This controlled check is more effective and safer. The up-and-down motion of the check should be quick, aiming to dislodge the ball without excessive force.

4. No Slashing or Holding

A common mistake, especially for new players, is to swing too hard and make contact with the player’s body. This is called a slash and is illegal in women’s lacrosse. Another frequent error is holding the check—where a defender holds their stick on top of the opponent’s stick for too long. This also leads to fouls. Remind players that stick checks should be quick and snapping, without follow-through or excessive force.

5. Avoiding the Sphere

The sphere is the area around a player’s head and shoulders, and checking into this zone is illegal. It’s important to teach your players to always check away from the body. If a check is made too close to the head, it can result in penalties, such as a yellow card. Proper checks are made outside the player’s body space, ensuring safety for both players.

6. Modified Checking for Youth Players

For younger players, there are stricter limitations on stick checking to prevent injuries. Below the seventh-grade level, full stick checking is not allowed. Instead, players are taught modified checking, where they can only check the stick if it’s held below shoulder level. The check must also be in a downward motion and away from the player’s body.

7. Emphasize Safety and Control

Stick checking is only effective when done safely and with control. Make sure your players understand that the goal is not to hit hard, but to disrupt the attacker’s possession while maintaining defensive position. Defensive players should focus on quick footwork, proper body positioning, and stick control. This will allow them to take away space from the attacker and execute checks when it’s most effective.

Key Points to Teach Stick Checking in Women’s Lacrosse:

• Body Positioning First: Ensure your players are in front of the attacker and have a clear view of the stick before attempting a check.

• Timing is Critical: Players should only check when the attacker exposes their stick, using quick, controlled wrist movements.

• Check Away from the Body: Stick-to-stick contact only, and always avoid checking near the head or body.

• No Slashing or Holding: Teach your players to keep their checks quick and controlled, without follow-through or prolonged contact.

• Modified Checking for Youth: For younger players, restrict checks to below shoulder level and in a downward motion.

Final Thoughts for Coaches

As a new coach in women’s lacrosse, stick checking may seem like a complicated skill to teach, but with a focus on safety, control, and proper body positioning, your players can develop this essential defensive skill effectively. Stick checking can be a game-changing tool when used correctly, allowing defenders to regain possession and maintain control of the game. By emphasizing safety and good technique, you’ll help your players master this important part of the game while keeping the play safe and fair.