Control and Passing on the Move

Objective:
The purpose of this exercise is to improve the technique of catching the ball and passing accuracy while maintaining constant movement. It also allows players to familiarize themselves with fast passing situations and ball control within a team dynamic, which is essential in lacrosse.

Materials needed:

• 2 lacrosse balls

• 4 players

• Cones or markers to define the zones

Exercise Description:

Player Distribution:
Place two groups of two players, one in each zone. The groups should be separated by a distance of about 3-4 yards.

Each group is assigned one lacrosse ball.

Starting the Exercise:
The exercise begins with both players from each group in a zone (defined by cones). Each player has a lacrosse ball.

The first player from each group makes a precise pass to their teammate, who must receive it while moving and maintain control of the ball.

Changing Positions:
Once the player receives the ball, they must pass it back to their teammate, who should also be moving to receive it.

After each pass and reception, players must switch sides (move to the opposite zone), where they will receive the pass from the other teammate.

Repeating the Process:
The exercise should be continuous, without stopping, passing the balls back and forth and changing positions with each pass.

Variations:

• Reduce the Distance: If players are still refining their passing and control, the distance between the cones can be reduced to make it easier to control the ball and pass more accurately, or passing the ball on the ground can be practiced.

• Timed Exercise: Set a time limit for passing, making players keep a faster pace, adding a physical component to the exercise.

• One-Touch Pass: Players should execute quick stick passes, increasing the difficulty of the exercise.

Key Aspects:

• Passing and Control: The main goal is for players to make accurate passes while maintaining control of the ball while moving. It's important that the pass is precise so the receiver can catch it without losing control of the ball.

• Coordination and Communication: Players must stay alert and communicate with each other to ensure the pass is accurate and synchronized with the movement of their teammate.

• Physical Condition: While the exercise focuses on passing and control, it is also an excellent way to improve players' physical condition since it is done continuously.

Benefits:

• Improves accuracy in both short and long passes.

• Helps players practice ball control while moving at high speeds.

• Encourages coordination and communication among team members.

• Develops endurance and physical abilities, as the exercise is performed in a dynamic environment.

Recommendations:
Adjust the difficulty of the exercise based on the players' age and skill level. For example, for younger or beginner categories, the distance between the cones can be reduced, or more time can be given for passing and control.

As players improve, increase the speed of the exercise and the distance between the cones.