Executing the Mumbo: A Dodging and Curling Strategy

In women’s lacrosse, this strategy can be a motion offense designed to create space and confuse defenders through constant movement and player rotations. It can also be a set play, or something the players automatically know to do when a dodger initiates from top center. All depends on your teams chemistry and lacrosse IQ.

Here’s a breakdown of how it works:

1. Dodge from Up Top: The play begins with a player dodging from the top of the 8-meter arc, trying to draw defenders and open up passing or shooting lanes.

2. Curl from Inside to Outside: As the dodger makes their move, the two players positioned on the inside of the 8-meter area curl out toward the wings or outside perimeter. This pulls their defenders out of the dangerous scoring area, creating more space in the middle.

3. Outside Players Cut In: Simultaneously, the two players who were positioned on the outside cut into the middle, filling the space that the inside players vacated. This coordinated movement creates confusion among defenders, especially if they’re forced to switch coverage.

4. Low Players Hold Position: The two players positioned down low (on the left and right sides near the crease) can either maintain their position to stretch the defense or make quick cuts toward the ball if the dodge creates an opening. These players are key targets for feeds if the dodge collapses the defense.

Objective:

• Create Mismatches: By having players rotate between inside and outside, defenders are forced to communicate and switch assignments. If they fail, an offensive player could find themselves wide open for a pass or shot.

• Space for a Feed or Shot: The dodger may either take the shot themselves or find a player cutting inside. The goal is to isolate defenders and create space for quick passes or shots on goal.

This is a common motion offense used in both man-up and even-strength scenarios to spread the defense and create opportunities for high-percentage shots.