“Executing the Pairs Offense in Girls’ Lacrosse: Strategies for Dynamic Scoring

In this pairs offense setup, the three sets of two players above the goal provide a dynamic and constantly shifting landscape, creating opportunities for both themselves and the player behind the goal. Here’s a breakdown of how each component functions and contributes to a cohesive, efficient offense:

1. The Role of the Three Sets of Pairs Above the Goal

• On-Ball Picks: When a player has the ball, their partner can set a pick to help them get a better angle, break free from a defender, or create mismatches. On-ball picks are particularly effective when timed with the player behind the goal moving to be an outlet, which pulls the defense’s attention and opens up lanes.

• Off-Ball Picks: These picks allow each pair to continuously set each other up to receive the ball in an optimal position, either for a direct shot or a quick pass to another open teammate. They also help to clear space in the middle, drawing defenders away from the crease and freeing the lone player behind the goal for feeding or dodging.

• Communication: To maximize this, players need to communicate to avoid congestion and establish a rhythm. Having each pair alternate between on-ball and off-ball picks at staggered intervals forces the defense into reactive mode, increasing the chance of defensive breakdowns.

2. Player Behind the Goal: The Quarterback of the Offense

• Outlet and Feeder: This player becomes the go-to for resetting plays, especially when the pairs above the goal are tightly marked. Positioned behind the goal, they have a full view of the offense and defense, enabling them to quickly assess opportunities and feed teammates when gaps open.

• Dodging Opportunities: Dodging in and out of the crease area keeps defenders guessing and can disrupt defensive shape, as defenders are forced to turn and track the attacker’s unpredictable movements.

• Timing with Picks Above the Goal: As players above set on-ball and off-ball picks, the player behind the goal can capitalize on any confusion or defensive switching. If defenders are pulled out of position, this player can dodge to the goal or set up for an assist.

3. Creating Effective Angles and Spacing

• The main idea of this offense is to keep defenders moving, which creates natural angles for passing, dodging, and shooting. Each pair must work together to keep enough space between them and the player behind the goal so that no defenders can effectively double-team.

• Rotational Movements: The pairs can rotate positions (clockwise or counterclockwise) after each pick or cut. This allows for constant motion, making it harder for defenders to predict their next move or cover all options at once.

4. Adjustments Based on Defensive Reactions

• If defenders are overplaying the picks, the player with the ball can fake a drive or pass to the paired teammate for a quick give-and-go play.

• If defenders collapse on the lone player behind the goal when she dodges, she can pass out to any of the pairs for a quick shot.

By maintaining this structured movement with the flexibility to adapt in the moment, the pairs offense with a lone player behind the goal can effectively pressure the defense, create high-percentage scoring opportunities, and leverage the lone player’s skills in both playmaking and dodging.