How to Teach Basic Lacrosse Stick Skills
Lacrosse is a game that requires speed, athleticism, hand-eye coordination and courage. The skills needed to pick-up, throw, catch and shoot the ball are not difficult, but it takes some time to get used to before one can master it. It can be quite an adjustment for those who are used to playing ball sports like baseball, basketball or football, but many athletes who come from other sports learn to master lacrosse skills.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Place your bottom hand at the end of the shaft and your dominant hand in the middle to throw the lacrosse ball. If you are a right-handed thrower, step with your left foot in the direction you want the ball to go. Pull down the shaft with your right hand and bring the bottom of your stick up to your arm pit with your left hand.
-
2
Catch the ball by holding your stick directly in front of you, giving the passer a good target. When the ball arrives, pull back slightly with a moderate grip, allowing the stick to flex when the ball hits the net portion of the stick. This is a cradling action that will allow you to hold on to the ball. Do not swipe at the ball with your stick.
-
-
3
Bounce the ball at the net when you shoot. You will have a much better chance of scoring that way then trying to beat the goalie with a direct shot fired on a line. Make a mental note of where the goalie's stick and glove are and shoot away from them. Shoot when you are on the run to create velocity on your shot. Snap your wrists and hip upon release of the ball.
-
4
Bend your knees when you want to scoop a loose ball off the ground. Lower the back of your hand toward the ground and then scoop the ball up by bringing the net portion of your stick close to your face.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Practice scooping the ball by throwing a ball 15 feet out in front of you, racing to it, bending down, picking it up and starting to run again. This will teach you to pick up the ball without dropping it.
