Lacrosse 101
Your guide to the fastest game on two feet
Lacrosse is a fast-paced, high-scoring sport that combines elements of basketball, soccer, and hockey. It's played on a field with a net at each end, similar to soccer. Lacrosse is played with a stick, called the crosse, which is used to cradle, scoop, pass/catch, and shoot the ball. The broader lacrosse community is great at sharing tips and tricks to learn these skills. Below are some resources to get you started. You may see or hear conflicting information, but lacrosse is not a one size fits all game. What works for one athlete may not work for another.
Origins of the Creator's Game
As an integral part of Native America culture, lacrosse is America's oldest team sport. Commonly called The Creator's Game, lacrosse was played for both ritual and recreation, and was often used to settle disputes. Today, lacrosse is the fastest growing team sport in the United States.
Cradle
The cradle is a key skill in lacrosse where players move the stick back and forth while running to keep possession of the ball, evade defenders, and create scoring chances. Cradling helps players maintain control of the ball in the pocket of the stick, preventing it from being dislodged by checks. Mastering this skill is crucial for players looking to excel on the field.
Scooping or Ground Balls
Scooping a ground ball in lacrosse is a crucial skill that involves efficiently picking up loose balls with the stick to gain possession and create scoring opportunities. Mastering the scoop requires good hand-eye coordination, proper technique, and quick reflexes to secure the ball in the stick's pocket and maintain control for your team.
Passing and Catching
Passing in lacrosse is a crucial skill with multiple purposes on the field. Its primary role is to efficiently move the ball between teammates to create scoring chances, maintain possession, and outsmart the defense. Passing helps teams advance the ball, exploit defensive weaknesses, and set up scoring opportunities for teammates. By mastering passing techniques and knowing when to pass, players can keep the defense off balance and work together to break down the opposing team's defense effectively.
Shooting
Shooting in lacrosse is a crucial skill that aims to score goals and contribute points to the team. It involves propelling the ball accurately and powerfully towards the goal to beat the goalkeeper. Effective shooting requires a combination of technique, accuracy, power, and deception to outwit the goalie and find the net. As players advance with the game they must change angles and vary shot placement to keep the goalie guessing and increase scoring chances. Confidence, composure, and decision-making are key in selecting the right shot, whether it's a quick release, bounce shot, overhand shot, or behind-the-back shot. Mastering shooting is essential for success in matches, and players who can shoot accurately play a vital role in their team's offensive success and overall victory.
We recommend that younger players focus on the overhand shot initially to avoid developing bad habits that are tough to break.