Dodge, Dish & Cut: Game-Speed Reps for Girls' Lacrosse Offense

This drill is designed to help girls’ lacrosse players build confidence and composure by simulating realistic offensive scenarios. It emphasizes individual skills, decision-making, and movement without the ball — all essential to developing strong offensive players.

Drill Objective

This drill allows players to combine:

• Downhill dodging to create separation

• Quick changes of direction near the crease

• Passing under pressure

• Smart cutting to the backside space

All of this within a continuous, game-like sequence.

Setup

Equipment:

• 3 cones

• 1 stick and ball per player or per pair

• One cage (goal), with or without a goalie

Cone placement:

1. First cone – At the top center of the offensive zone (~25–30 feet from goal)

2. Second cone – On the wing near goal line extended (GLE)

3. Optional third cone – On the opposite side near GLE to mark the backside cut

Step-by-Step Breakdown

1. Downhill Dodge at the Top Cone

The player starts near the top cone and approaches it with speed. She performs a split dodge (or split + roll), attacking downhill toward the goal. The goal is to simulate drawing a defender and creating space.

Focus on explosiveness and stick protection — encourage players to keep their heads up.

2. Zigzag Dodge at the GLE Cone

After the initial dodge, the player attacks the second cone on the wing near GLE. She then performs a zigzag dodge, using a hard change of direction to simulate navigating through a second defender near the crease.

Teach players to maintain control of their stick, use their body effectively, and keep their eyes on the field.

3. Pass to the Backside

Immediately following the zigzag move, the player makes a quick pass to the backside (opposite wing or behind the cage), where a teammate may be cutting or posted.

Emphasize the importance of seeing the backside and delivering clean, purposeful passes.

4. Backside Cut

After the pass, the player makes an off-ball cut toward the backside, creating a potential return pass, rebound opportunity, or simply opening up space.

Encourage sharp, intentional movement — no slow jogs. Cuts should be timed and with purpose.

Key Coaching Points for Girls' Lacrosse

• Stick Protection: Emphasize strong cradle positioning during dodges — keep sticks to the outside and high.

• Head Up Play: Girls’ lacrosse requires strong field awareness — encourage scanning for teammates during movement.

• Quick Feet: All dodges should be sharp, with solid foot placement and quick redirection.

• Backside Awareness: Players must learn to recognize when and how to use the backside to create scoring chances.

Variations

• Add a low-pressure defender at the second cone to simulate pressure at GLE.

• Incorporate a finisher on the backside to receive the pass and shoot.

• Turn the drill into a 2v1 or 3v2 scenario for added decision-making and timing.

• Include a goalie for added pressure and shot selection focus.

Why It Works for Girls’ Lacrosse

• Mimics the pace and flow of real offensive possessions

• Encourages multi-phase actions (dodge → move → pass → cut)

• Builds strong fundamentals and lacrosse IQ

• Fosters team chemistry through timing-based drills