10 Essential Tips for Strong Off-Ball Defense
Playing off-ball defense in girls’ lacrosse is all about anticipation, positioning, and supporting your teammates. Mastering these skills will disrupt the offense and prevent scoring opportunities. Here’s how to improve your off-ball defense:
1 Maintain Position:
Always position yourself between your assigned player and the goal, keeping your stick ready to block passing lanes and intercept balls.
2 V Positioning:
Point one arm at the ball and the other at the player you’re marking, ensuring constant awareness of both. Never turn your back to the ball, and adjust your position as it moves.
3 Communicate Constantly:
Let your teammates know where you are in relation to the ball and attackers. Use phrases like “help right” or “help left” to signal your support if they get beat.
4 Anticipate Cuts:
Be aware of offensive players cutting toward the goal and prepare to slide or provide help if needed.
5 Stay in Help Position:
Position yourself close enough to help your teammates but still within reach of your player to defend if they receive the ball.
6 Head on a Swivel:
Constantly scan the field to track both the ball and your assigned player, staying alert for changes in the offense.
7 Be Ready to Slide:
If the on-ball defender gets beat, quickly slide over to provide defensive support, while keeping track of your own player.
8 Protect the 8-Meter Arc:
Be vigilant in the critical scoring area. Stay ready to close down on attackers entering the arc or block shots.
9 Vision Awareness:
As an off-ball defender, use peripheral vision to watch both the ball carrier and your attacker. Never get tunnel vision on just your player.
10 React to Player Cuts:
When your player cuts away, backpedal to maintain a view of both the ball and your player, ensuring you’re always in position to help.
By focusing on these defensive fundamentals—maintaining positioning, communicating, and anticipating movement—you can effectively shut down offensive plays and support your teammates on the field.
