"Steal the Fox’s Tail"
Starting a training session with energy, laughter, and movement is one of the best ways to prepare players physically and mentally for the work ahead. The classic game “steal the fox’s tail” becomes a powerful tool when adapted to girls’ lacrosse. This playful activity activates key components of the sport in a fun, dynamic, and effective way.
Why Use This Game as a Warm-Up for Lacrosse?
Lacrosse is a fast, explosive, and highly technical sport. A good warm-up should prepare the body for that intensity, while also activating the mind and strengthening team bonds. “Steal the fox’s tail” accomplishes all of this in one game:
1. General and Sport-Specific Mobility
Players are constantly running, changing direction, accelerating, and stopping.
The whole body is activated, especially the lower body, core stabilizers, and cardiovascular system.
2. Agility and Awareness
Players must stay alert, read each other’s movements, and anticipate attempts to steal tails.
This improves peripheral vision and spatial awareness, which are essential for making quick decisions on the field.
3. Healthy Competition
The game creates a fun, competitive environment that helps release tension before a high-intensity practice.
It fosters micro-challenges that motivate players to give their best.
4. Character and Resilience Development
Losing your tail doesn’t necessarily mean you're out (depending on the version), which promotes persistence and a positive mindset.
How to Adapt It for Lacrosse
✅ Basic Version (No Stick)
Each player tucks a ribbon or small cone with Velcro into the back of their shorts or skirt.
A safe, open space is marked out (half-field is ideal).
Players move freely, trying to protect their own tail while stealing others’.
The last player with a tail, or the one who collects the most tails, wins.
🥍 Stick Version (Intermediate–Advanced)
Each player holds their stick and a lacrosse ball during the game.
Players must try to steal others’ tails while maintaining ball control using good cradle technique.
The added challenge of not dropping the ball increases the technical demand and encourages better stick skills and body control.
Variations and Progressions
Team version: Each team has a designated “fox” with a tail. Teammates protect their fox while trying to steal from the opposing team.
Lives or challenges: When a player loses their tail, they complete a short challenge (5 jumps, 10 stick handles) before rejoining.
Timed rounds: Play 1–2 minute rounds to keep intensity high and maximize repetitions.
Conclusion
“Steal the fox’s tail” is more than just a fun game—it's a tool for physical, mental, and emotional preparation that fits perfectly into girls’ lacrosse training. It activates the body, sharpens the mind, and builds team chemistry in a joyful, competitive atmosphere.
By incorporating this kind of dynamic into the start of practices, players not only warm up better but also enter training with a positive attitude and a competitive mindset.
