Add One Progressive Fast Break Drill

Objective:

To train players to recognize and execute fast breaks in a variety of unsettled situations, teaching them to make quick decisions and adapt to changing numbers on the field.

Setup:

1. Field Positioning: Start at midfield with attackers, defenders, and midfielders positioned to simulate a transition scenario.

2. Numbers Progression:

   • Begin with a 1-on-2 situation.

   • Add players to progress through 2-on-3, 3-on-4, 4-on-5, and 5-on-6 situations.

   • Optionally, finish with a 6-on-6 setup.

3. Ball Entry:

   • A coach, goalie, or designated feeder initiates play by passing a ball to the offensive team.

   • If the ball drops or a turnover occurs, a new ball is immediately introduced, keeping the tempo high.

Drill Execution:

1. Unsettled Breaks:

   • The drill starts with a simple outnumbered break, such as a 3-on-2 fast break.

   • The offense must quickly move the ball and make decisions before defenders recover.

   • If a goal is scored or a shot is taken, the next phase begins.

2. Continuous Play & Defensive Recovery:

   • Defenders sprint in from different parts of the field to simulate transition defense.

   • Offense must react to additional defenders, adjusting their strategy in real-time.

3. On-the-Fly Adjustments:

   • As soon as the ball drops or a shot is taken, new players enter.

   • Players must communicate, fill lanes, and recognize when they have a numbers advantage.

Key Coaching Points:

✅ Spacing & Movement: Players should spread out, avoid bunching, and cut to open spaces.
✅ Ball Movement: Quick passes force the defense to shift and create better scoring chances.
✅ Decision Making: Players should read the defense, identify the slide, and make the right pass or dodge.
✅ Defensive Communication: Defenders must communicate and rotate to stop the fast break effectively.
✅ Game Speed Reps: Encourage high-intensity play with no breaks between reps.

Variations & Progressions:

🔹 Delayed Defense: Have defenders enter a second or two late to give the offense a brief numbers advantage.
🔹 Live Turnovers: If the defense regains possession, they immediately transition into a counter-fast break.
🔹 Different Entry Points: Instead of always starting from midfield, introduce the ball from the sideline, behind the goal, or defensive zones.
🔹 Goalie Involvement: Have the goalie start the drill with a save, forcing a quick clear to initiate transition.

Why This Drill is Effective:

✅ Simulates real-game scenarios with fluid transitions rather than pre-planned set plays.
✅ Helps players develop lacrosse IQ, understanding when they have a numbers advantage.
✅ Improves defensive recovery and offensive execution under pressure.
✅ Encourages conditioning, as players must react and sprint in transition situations.

By training in multiple fast-break formations, players learn to capitalize on every unsettled situation—whether it’s a classic 4-on-3 or a chaotic scramble.