ACCELERATION, REACTION TIME, and CHANGE OF DIRECTION are some of the most important qualities to be a successful lacrosse player. After scrolling instagram and seeing some fun acceleration drills executed in other sports, I wanted to create a fun drill that works on some of the most important skills in the sport of lacrosse:
1. Ground balls
2. Back checks
3. Getting a pass off under pressure
Here are a few reasons why this is a great drill:
Lacrosse is the fastest game on two feet: Lacrosse is a fast-paced sport, and being able to accelerate rapidly enables players to make quick bursts of speed, outrun opponents, and create scoring opportunities.
Ground balls win games: Ground balls are contested possessions in lacrosse, and winning them often requires explosive acceleration. When a loose ball is on the ground, players must accelerate quickly to get to the ball first, gain possession, and maintain control. The ability to accelerate rapidly can give players an advantage in these ground ball battles.
Transition, transition, transition: Lacrosse is a transition game. Teams switch rapidly from offense to defense and vice versa. Acceleration plays a vital role in quickly transitioning from one phase to another.
Offense wins games, defense wins championships: Defensively, acceleration is crucial for staying with offensive players and maintaining tight coverage. By accelerating quickly, defenders can close gaps, stay in front of their opponents, and limit scoring opportunities. It also helps defenders recover quickly when they are beaten by an offensive player and need to catch up or close down passing lanes.
I'd LOVE TO HEAR WHAT YOU THINK! Let me know in the comments or feel free to reach out to me on instagram @laxfreeordie or email me: erin@laxfreeordie.net
