Dynamic 5V5 Lacrosse Transition Drill: Emulating Game-Pace and Strategy

The 5V5 Transition Drill is designed to simulate real-game scenarios in lacrosse, focusing on fast-paced play and transitions from defense to offense and vice versa. Here’s a detailed explanation of how the drill works:

• Drill Setup:

  • Each end of the field has three attackers and three defenders, with a goalie in each goal.

  • Goalies have a surplus of balls in each cage for continuous play.

  • Two lines of midfielders are positioned at the far ends of the goal line extended (GLE) on each side of the field.

• Starting the Drill:

  • Initially, two additional midfielders join to play defense for the first rep.

  • The goalie starts the drill by making an outlet pass to one of the two midfielders in the setup, who are positioned to transition into offense.

• Transition and Variation:

  • Two midfielders in different colored pennies either trail or run back on defense to add variability to each rep.

  • Attackers and defenders are positioned between the restraining line and midfield to realistically engage the play.

• Play Execution:

  • The drill can vary from a 4V3 to a 5V5 scenario, depending on how players transition during the drill.

  • The focus is on quick shots and aggressive transitions, with three attackers and two midfielders in offense against three defenders and two trailing midfielders.

• Continuation and Reset:

  • Upon a shot, goal, or save, the goalie quickly makes another outlet pass to midfielders positioned at GLE on the opposite side, flipping the play direction.

  • Midfielders who transitioned down the field must now hustle back to defend on the opposite end, creating continuous end-to-end action.

• Adaptations:

  • Attack players are instructed to ride aggressively back to midfield, not just observing but actively trying to interrupt the break.

  • If defenders manage a takeaway or groundball, they must return it to the goalie who then selects a midfielder at GLE for the outlet pass, also giving attack players a chance to ride against the outlet.

• Additional Variations:

  • For smaller rosters, the drill can be adjusted to two attackers and two defenders at each end.

  • For younger or less experienced teams, move the goals up to the Restraining Lines to reduce field size and increase engagement.

  • Keep extra balls near the sidelines north of the restraining line to maintain flow even if the initial outlet pass is missed.

This drill is excellent for developing players' ability to recognize and react to fluid game situations, enhancing their skills in aggressive clears, rides, and fast transitions while keeping the practice fun and engaging.