The Double Team in Women’s Lacrosse: Techniques, Timing, and Execution

Teaching the double team in women’s lacrosse is an essential skill that focuses on defensive collaboration and timing. The double team is designed to trap an opponent, apply pressure, and force turnovers. Here’s a breakdown of how to effectively teach and implement this strategy:

1. Positioning and Communication

The key to a successful double team is positioning. Defenders need to communicate clearly to ensure that both players are in sync. Teach players to identify when an opponent is in a vulnerable position, such as when they’re near the sideline or turning their back, which is an ideal time to initiate the double team. One defender should focus on body positioning while the other approaches to force a turnover or disrupt the pass.

2. Footwork and Body Control

Proper footwork is crucial when executing a double team. Both defenders should avoid lunging or committing too early, as this can lead to fouls or allow the attacker to escape. Emphasize staying low, with knees bent and bodies balanced, making it difficult for the attacker to dodge or split the defenders.

3. The Ponytail Rule

This rule, often used in coaching, states that a defender can initiate the double team when they see the attacker’s ponytail, indicating the attacker has turned their back. This is the ideal time for the second defender to step in and apply pressure without risking a foul.

4. Stick Positioning

While one defender should focus on body control, the other should aim to disrupt the attacker’s stick. Proper stick positioning is key to creating turnovers. Teach players to aim for checks when the attacker is off-balance or turning away.

5. Practice Scenarios

Incorporate live drills in practice where attackers are pressured into double-team situations, allowing defenders to practice timing, communication, and execution. Start with 2v1 drills, then progress to 2v2 to replicate game situations.

6. When to Use the Double Team

The double team is most effective when the team is down by a goal and time is running out, or when the attacker is near the boundary line or corner of the field. It’s also a great tactic when the attacker has their back to the goal or is isolated.

7. Common Mistakes

Common mistakes in double-teaming include over-committing, leading to fouls, or both defenders chasing the ball rather than maintaining balance. Emphasize the importance of discipline and focus during the double team to avoid giving the opponent an easy out.

By teaching the fundamentals of positioning, communication, and timing, defenders can learn to execute an effective double team, creating pressure and forcing turnovers, while adhering to the specific rules and minimizing fouls.