Lacrosse is a fast-paced, physical game, with defenders often employing some form of checking to try to separate a player from the ball. Lacrosse checks can be either body checks, in which a player uses his body to physically bump an opponent, or a stick check, with the player using his stick to hit an opponent's stick. Players can use a variety of stick checks, depending on the situation.
Poke
Defenders with long sticks typically use poke checks to disrupt an onrushing attacker. In a poke check, the defender simply stabs the net end of his stick into the hands of the offensive player, with the movement similar to using a spear or sword. Defenders use poke checks to create distance and keep the opposing player to the outside. Forcing an offensive player to fight through a stiff poke check allows the defender more reaction time and can even act to dislodge the ball.
Slap
Slap checks may be the most effective means to steal ball possession. In a slap check, the defender slaps his stick against the stick of the opposing forward in an attempt to knock the ball loose. While the movement must target the opponent's stick, slap checks may contact the hands and forearms to harass an opponent. However, officials may call penalties on defenders for intentionally striking the arms and hands or for hitting them with excessive force. Any slap check to the body or legs will always draw a slashing penalty.
Wrap
When running alongside an opponent, defenders will need to utilize wrap checks to increase their reach and try to knock the ball free. Wrap checks involve the defender releasing his bottom hand from the stick and then swinging the stick one-handed to wrap around the opponent in an attempt to strike the ball. This can be the only way to disrupt a running opponent who has strong body position.
Overhead
Another checking technique performed on the run, an overhead check can be dangerous and may draw extra attention from officials. When running with an opponent, the defender reaches his stick over his opponent's head and checks down, pointing his stick's butt end toward the sky. When properly executed, the overhead check can be an impressive technique. But the check's margin for error is extremely slim, with even the slightest mistake usually earning a penalty.
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