Cone Tunnel 1v1
Introduction: Lacrosse is a sport that combines physical and tactical skills, and one of the most fundamental aspects is a player’s ability to move quickly and controlled on the field. The 1v1 cone tunnel drill is an excellent way to work on attackers' dodging (evasion) movements and defensive skills to stop opposing players. This drill focuses on improving agility, ball control, anticipation, and reaction time for both players in a dynamic and challenging environment.
Detailed Description of the Drill:
Drill Setup:
Space: A 3x6 meter space is required to form the "tunnel" of cones.
Cone Tunnel: Place 6 cones in a straight line, spaced about 1 meter apart, forming a 6-meter-long tunnel. This tunnel will serve as the area where the drill takes place.
Player Positioning:
The attackers (O) start at the beginning of the tunnel on one side, with the goal of performing a dodge (evasion move) and running to the end of the tunnel without being touched by the defender.
The defenders (X) position themselves in the center of the tunnel, on one side, ready to try and touch the attacker as they perform their move.
Drill Objective:
Attackers (O): The attacker’s goal is to make a quick dodge at the start of the tunnel, evade the defender, and reach the end of the tunnel without being touched. The attacker must stay within the limits of the tunnel and not leave the area defined by the cones.
Defenders (X): The defender’s goal is to touch the attacker with both hands before they reach the end of the tunnel. The defender must be agile, anticipate the attacker’s movements, and try to prevent them from successfully navigating the tunnel.
Drill Execution:
Starting the drill: The attacker starts at the start line of the tunnel, while the defender is positioned at the center of the cones. The drill begins on a signal (this can be a verbal cue or a whistle from the coach).
Attacker Movement: The attacker performs their dodge (could be a split dodge, face dodge, or any other evasive movement) in order to shake off the defender and move through the tunnel. It’s important that the attacker maintains control of the ball while executing the evasion move.
Defender Movement: The defender must react quickly, using their body to block the attacker’s path and attempt to touch them with both hands. The defender can move side to side within the tunnel to make it harder for the attacker to progress, but must avoid stepping outside the cone area.
End of the drill: The drill ends when the attacker reaches the end of the tunnel without being touched, or when the defender touches the attacker with both hands before the attacker reaches the final line.
Variations of the Drill:
Role change drill: Players can switch roles after a set number of repetitions. This allows both attackers and defenders to practice their skills.
Time limit addition: The coach can set a time limit for the defender to touch the attacker or for the attacker to complete the drill, which increases the intensity of the drill.
Benefits of This Drill:
Improvement of Agility and Speed: This drill allows players to work on their fast and precise movements. Attackers must be agile to evade the defense, while defenders improve their reaction time and anticipation skills.
Development of Dodge Skills: Attackers practice various types of dodges (evasive movements), helping them improve their ability to beat defenders in one-on-one situations during real games.
Strengthening Defensive Skills: For defenders, this drill helps improve their ability to cover and apply pressure to the attacker, training them to stay close to their opponent and react effectively to fast movements.
Fostering Teamwork: Although it is a 1v1 drill, it also promotes collaboration and communication within the team, as each player must understand their role in a defensive and offensive situation.
Improving Mental Endurance: Both attackers and defenders must maintain a high level of concentration, which helps strengthen mental endurance and the ability to make quick decisions under pressure.
