How to Win a Face Off in Lacrosse

The face-off in lacrosse is performed by the two center midfielders at the beginning of each period and after a goal is scored. Winning the face-off gives your team control of the ball and a better chance to score and ultimately win the game. It requires a combination of strength, coordination, and good technique.

Instructions

The Set-Up

1. Stand across from the opposing center midfielder in the middle of the field facing the other team's goal.

2. Lay your stick perpendicular on the ground with the back of your pocket about 1 inch apart from the back of the opposing player's pocket. When the ball is placed between the pockets it shouldn't touch the ground. Both of your hands should be on your stick handle and touching the ground.

3. Perform one of the following face-off moves when the referee blows the whistle.

The Clamp and Step

1. Rest the majority of your weight on your right hand.

2. Roll the stick head over the ball, covering it as you bring the end of your stick back towards your left leg.

3. Drive your shoulders and forearms into your opponent to move him away from the ball.

4. Step forward with your right foot and swing your body around, using your hips to box your opponent out.

5. Push the ball away from the center of the field with your stick or by kicking it with your foot. Now you or a teammate can scoop the ball and continue play.

The Push Clamp

1. Keep your right foot flat on the ground and be on the toes of your left foot.

2. Roll the head of your stick over the ball so the opposite side is now on the ground and the right side of the pocket is facing you with the ball in between you and the pocket.

3. Keep the handle of your stick on the ground with your left hand and push it forward into your opponent's stick to protect your coverage of the ball.

4. Scoop the ball either toward you or to the side, depending on the position of the opposing player. Continue play.

The Rake

1. Push your stick into your opponent's stick.

2. Quickly pull your stick towards the left sideline, keeping it on the ground.

3. Roll the ball out and to your left by raking it out with the back edge of your pocket.

4. Scoop the ball and continue play.