When young players get interested in the game of lacrosse, the most important aspect is building a solid level of fundamental play. Boys who pick up the game have to learn how to catch, throw, shoot and carry the lacrosse ball without losing possession. This takes a commitment to practicing their ball handling skills whenever the opportunity arises -- and not just during organized practice sessions.
Catching
To get into the habit of catching the ball properly, young lacrosse players must turn and face the player who is throwing them the ball. In baseball, you may be able to reach your glove across your body to make the catch. The pocket of the lacrosse stick will not catch the ball if you are not facing your teammate who is throwing. After the ball hits the pocket of the stick, you bring it back slightly so it remains in the pocket. If you reach for the ball, it will be much more likely to bounce out of the pocket than remain in it.
Passing
You don't have to square up and face your teammate when you are passing the ball to him. Instead, you want to be facing one side or the other so you can arc a pass to him. If you face the recipient directly, it will be easier for the defender to block the pass. Use eye contact before passing the ball to an unaware teammate.
Shooting
Most youngsters can't wait to practice their shooting skills. After all, goal scoring is the key to winning and losing games and players love getting the opportunity to put the ball in the net. There are four basic shots to learn. They include the overhand shot, the underhand shot, the sidearm shot and the backhander. Practicing the overhand shot and learning a quick and accurate release is the first thing young boys learn, but the other shots can help the player become more versatile and a dangerous offensive threat.
Cradling the Ball
Once a player has possession of the ball after taking a pass or picking up a loose ball from the ground and he recognizes an opening in the defense, he can run with the ball and create a scoring opportunity. However, youngsters quickly learn that running with the ball and maintaining possession is not easy. You have to hold the stick at a slightly forward angle and you have to switch sides when carrying the ball to keep a defender from knocking it loose.
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