Playing team defense is always hard. Why? Because trying to get six guys to work together to stop the other team isn't easy. The one thing that must be stressed is communication.
Communication is what is going to make or break the team defense.
Communication is what is going to make or break the team defense.
TRAINING
1) Footwork And Training
A good defenseman plays defense with his feet more than anything else. As pole, being able to get your body between the offensive player you are covering and the goal is priority number 1. The key to good one-on-one defense is dictating play, and remaining one step ahead of the attacking player at all times by maintaining good body position. Against a skilled opponent, staying in front of your man is almost impossible if you can’t move your feet effectively. The drop step, side shuffle and a lateral change of direction are an excellent defenseman’s best friends. |
STICKWORK
2) Stick Work
It’s truly amazing what some of the best defenders in the game can do with their sticks, both when playing one-on-one defense and when carrying the ball. Often times, the best takeaway guys are also the best ball handlers, and I’ll tell you right now, that is NOT a coincidence. As a defensive player, you want to always be in control of your stick. It is the biggest tool in your toolbox, and when you’re in full control it can fix any situation. Having a great stick is about comfort, confidence and ability, and the only way to develop these three things is practice. Wall Ball is a huge component of practice. The passing, catching, shooting and ground ball benefits are extremely obvious, yet many young players do not use the wall to their full advantage. Since no one else is for a solid Wall Ball session, hitting the wall is really your best opportunity for self-improvement. Just as basketball players imagine last second situations while playing on their driveway, it is important that you pass and catch off the wall like you mean it. Work up a sweat while you hit the wall and visualize situations in which you want to improve. This will help elevate your game. By hitting the wall, you will also see an improvement in your ability to time checks and control your stick, simply because wall ball builds up your strength and eye-hand coordination. |
TEAMWORK 3) Lacrosse IQ – Know The Game! This one is simple, easy and fun. Watch as much lacrosse as you possibly can. When you’re watching lacrosse game on TV, pick out a defensive player on the field that you want to play like, and watch him religiously throughout the game. Don’t focus on the ball, or the “action”, but focus on the one guy you think is the best defender. – Where does he position himself when he’s defending off-ball? – How does he set up and manipulate the motion of his dodging opponent? – Can you hear him and his teammates communicating on the field? – How does he set up his stick checks? – When does he pressure out, when does he sit back and/or move in toward the crease? – Where does he go during clears? How comfortable is he with the ball in his stick? These are all questions to ask yourself as you’re watching the player on TV. Collect all the answers – even write them down. Know it all and value all portions of the game. By focusing on a certain player, you can more effectively learn from the best. And if you can develop an understanding of a player’s actions and reactions on the field, you will raise your Lacrosse IQ tremendously. While you’re watching, you can also do a little fact checking on this very article. Do the best defenders play primarily with their feet? Do the best takeaway guys also have the best stick skills? Do the best players stand out and go hard 100% of the time? Try these three approaches for yourself, make an honest effort, and I guarantee you’ll become a much better defenseman. Playing team defense is always hard. Why? Because trying to get six guys to work together to stop the other team isn't easy. The one thing that must be stressed is communication.
Communication is what is going to make or break the team defense. |