The "Shoot, Dodge, and Reset" Drill for Women's Lacrosse
Purpose of the Drill
This drill is designed to enhance a player's ability to execute quick decision-making in offensive plays. It emphasizes dodging, footwork, shooting accuracy, and defensive awareness. By training these skills together, players develop a smoother transition from catching to dodging and ultimately making a controlled shot under pressure.
Drill Execution
Setup:
One player starts with the ball at the top of the attack area.
A defender (or "dummy" defender) stands in front, providing simulated pressure.
Additional teammates are positioned for continuous rotation in the drill.
Step-by-Step Execution:
The offensive player catches the ball and maintains a strong stance.
Using a quick shuffle, the player sets up for a dodge rather than charging straight into the defender.
The attacker performs a duck-under move to evade defensive pressure. (Here is a detailed breakdown of how to perform the fake shot: Fake Shot Drill for Women's Lacrosse)
After dodging, the player steps back, regains balance, and takes a well-controlled shot.
Immediately after shooting, the player transitions into the defender role, replacing the previous defender in the drill rotation.
Key Focus Points:
Smooth transition from catching to dodging without unnecessary movement.
Proper body control and balance when stepping back for the shot.
Awareness of defensive positioning when switching roles.
Benefits of the Drill
Improved Dodging Technique:
Players refine their ability to evade defenders efficiently while maintaining control of the ball.
Enhanced Shooting Accuracy:
Practicing under pressure helps develop better shot placement and composure.
Defensive Awareness & Transition Skills:
Rotating between offensive and defensive roles encourages a better understanding of defensive pressure and movement.
Game-Applicable Movement:
The combination of quick footwork, dodging, and shooting simulates real-game offensive plays, helping players become more comfortable in high-pressure situations.
Final Thoughts
The "Shoot, Dodge, and Reset" drill is an excellent training exercise for developing offensive versatility. By reinforcing dodging, controlled shooting, and quick defensive transitions, players can improve their ability to handle pressure, make smart decisions, and execute successful scoring plays. Incorporating this drill into regular training sessions will help athletes become more dynamic and effective on the field.
