Most youngsters who come to the game of lacrosse come in without knowing any of the skills needed to play the game. There are exceptions, but most boys who are starting to play have to learn how to cradle the ball, how to throw it, carry it, scoop it and catch. They also have to learn how to shoot it. The coach can develop these skills by employing enjoyable drills so boys can maintain their interest in the game.
Monkeys In The Middle
Set up a triangle that is 5 to 10 yards on each side. Place three players on the outside of the triangle and two defensive players on the inside of the triangle. One of the players on the outside takes control of the ball and passes it to one of his outside teammates. The players on the inside try to take the ball away. After the players complete 10 passes, have the two defensive players switch positions with two of the outside players. Make sure all players get a chance to play both positions at least twice.
Steal The Bacon
Place the lacrosse ball at midfield and place half your team one side of the field about 25 yards away from the ball and the other half on the other side of the field about 25 yards from the ball. Each player on both sides gets a number, 1 through 8. You will call out a number and as soon as you say it, that player will sprint to the ball, and try to gain control of it. The player who gains control of the ball before his opponent and sprints back without losing control has stolen the bacon. Give each player at least three chances to assert himself in this game.
Fireball
In many youth lacrosse games, the boys congregate to the ball and there is little or no passing. In the fireball drill, the players learn the importance of spreading out and being in position to make a catch. In this drill, the coach throws a lacrosse ball as high as he can and the player who can catch it gets a point. If the ball hits the ground, and players come together to fight for it, a second lacrosse ball is thrown. As soon as the coach sees a group of four or more players fighting for the ball, he throws a new ball into the equation. The new ball always becomes the fireball and once players spread out, they must pass the ball successfully to each other. The game ends when the players can make 10 consecutive passes.
5, 10, 15, 20
This is a game that everyone loves because it involves shooting the ball on goal. The coach sets up markers at the 5-, 10-, 15- and 20-yard marks. Each player gets to take a shot from each spot. The player who can successfully put the most shots on goal in four rounds of shooting wins the game.
