The goalie in lacrosse is the last line of defense. The goaltender has the responsibility of stopping shots made on goal, directing the defense and then starting the attack after catching the ball on a save. Goaltenders can perform drills that can help improve their reactions and get them ready for game competition.
High-to-Low Drill
The high-to-low drill helps a lacrosse goalie prepare to face hard shots in a game or practice. Have two players stand 10 to 15 yards from the goalie, one on his right side and the other on his left side. Have the players alternate shots on goal, starting at shoulder height and then moving down to his ankle level. Once both players have take 10 shots in this process, they go back up the ladder until they get to shoulder level again. Once the goalie is completely warmed up, have each player take 10 bounce shots on goal.
Brick Wall Drill
Have the goaltender line up five yards behind a brick wall. Have another player line up five yards behind the goaltender. In this drill, the player will take shots at the brick wall and the goaltender will attempt to make the save once the ball has hit the wall. The shots should start off slow-paced so the goaltender can get used to the ball coming off the wall. However, once the goalie warmed up, the shooter can increase his speed. This is a reaction drill designed to get a goalie used to quick shots that he may not see until the last minute.
Passing Drill
The goaltender must become an excellent passer who can trigger his team's attack after making the save. Line up two rows of players to the goalie's right and left. You as the coach have the ball in the center, about 10 yards from the goalie. Take a shot on goal. After the goalie makes the save, he will yell "clear," and the first player to his right will run 15 to 20 yards upfield. The goaltender must attempt to hit his teammate in stride with a crisp pass. You then take another shot. The goalie will give the "clear" yell again and then throw to the first player on his left, who has also run 25 yards upfield. Do this until all players have had a chance to catch a clearing pass from the goalie. The goaltender should do five pushups every time he makes a poor pass, and the receiver should have to do five pushups any time a good pass is dropped.
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