Defending the Crease
A crease defender in women’s lacrosse is a defensive player responsible for protecting the area around the goal, particularly against attackers who operate behind or near the goal line extended (GLE). The primary objective of the crease defender is to prevent the attacker from getting into the middle of the field, close to the goal, and to force them wide or away from dangerous scoring areas.
Defending the crease in women’s lacrosse requires footwork, strength, and awareness of both positioning and rules. The primary goal of the crease defender is to prevent the attacker from getting to the middle of the field and to guide them away from the scoring area.
Key Points to Focus On:
1. Stick Positioning
• Always keep your stick up and high to block potential feeds from behind the goal.
• Use your stick to make yourself as big as possible, deterring attackers from passing or shooting over you.
2. Footwork
• Beat the attacker to the goal line extended (GLE). This is the imaginary line running straight out from each side of the goal.
• Keep your foot against the crease line to prevent attackers from squeezing between you and the goal.
• Force the attacker wide and upfield by staying low and maintaining balance.
3. Body Positioning
• Make contact with your forearms or knuckles as the attacker reaches the GLE.
• Lock your elbows and use your core and leg strength to drive the attacker away from the 8-meter arc.
• Avoid opening your hips, which could allow the attacker to slip inside and closer to the goal.
4. Containment
• Use small, quick steps to maintain your positioning and keep the attacker in front of you.
• Keep your body balanced and controlled to avoid being beaten by sharp cuts or quick movements.
• Stay patient and avoid fouling by lunging or over-committing to a move.
5. Utilize Team Defense
• The help defense is generally at the top of the 8-meter arc, so guide the attacker in that direction rather than letting them roll under towards the goal.
• Communicate with your teammates to ensure that slides and help are prepared if the attacker manages to get inside.
Rules to Consider:
• Shooting Space Violation: Be aware of your positioning to avoid blocking the attacker’s shooting lane illegally.
• Three-Second Violation: Do not remain in the 8-meter arc for more than three seconds without actively marking an opponent. Move out to prevent being penalized.
• Crease Violation: Do not step into the crease or allow any part of your stick or body to enter the crease area. This results in a violation.
Strategy:
• Forcing the Attacker: Always force the attacker wide and up, away from the center of the field where scoring opportunities are higher.
• Stick Discipline: Keep your stick up at all times. A defender who keeps their stick down or at waist height is vulnerable to attackers shooting over them.
By focusing on these techniques and maintaining a strong defensive presence, crease defenders can effectively disrupt offensive plays and prevent attackers from creating high-percentage scoring opportunities.
