Three-Player Weave Passing
The three-player weave is a highly effective drill for girls’ lacrosse, designed to improve passing, catching, communication, and overall movement. Running this drill helps players sharpen their core skills while promoting teamwork and mimicking real-game situations, making it an indispensable part of any lacrosse practice
Key Points to Emphasize:
• Communication: Players must stay vocal, calling for passes and signaling movements to ensure smooth transitions.
• Accuracy: Focus on delivering sharp, accurate passes and securing clean catches while on the move.
• Speed: Run the drill at game speed to simulate real-play conditions and build endurance.
• Quick Transitions: Players should quickly move into their new positions after passing, maintaining the flow of the drill.
Benefits of the Three-Player Weave:
• Passing and Catching: Players improve their ability to handle the ball while on the run.
• Teamwork and Communication: Promotes collaboration and effective communication on the field.
• Field Awareness: Enhances understanding of spacing, positioning, and movement.
• Game Simulation: Provides a realistic, high-paced drill that mimics in-game situations.
Steps for the Three-Player Weave:
1. Setup:
• Position three players at one end of the field or a marked starting area.
• Ensure each player has a stick, and the middle player starts with the ball.
2. Starting the Drill:
• The middle player (Player 2) begins with the ball and runs forward.
• Player 2 passes the ball to either outside player (Player 1 or Player 3) and then moves behind the receiving player to fill the opposite lane.
3. Weaving and Passing:
• The outside player (e.g., Player 1) who receives the pass runs forward and then passes to the other outside player (Player 3), while Player 2 runs behind.
• After passing, Player 1 fills the middle lane, and the weave continues.
• Player 3 then passes to Player 2, repeating the sequence.
4. Maintaining Flow and Coordination:
• The focus is on continuous movement with quick, accurate passes while players shift into new lanes.
• Effective communication is key—players should call for the ball and signal their intentions clearly.
5. Finishing the Drill:
• Continue the weave until the players reach the opposite end of the field.
• End the drill with a shot on goal or a quick move, such as a dodge or pass, to finish strong.
Drill Variations:
• Add a Defender: Introduce a defender to increase pressure and challenge players’ passing accuracy.
• Vary the Speed: Slow down the drill to focus on precision or speed it up to work on quick decision-making.
• Incorporate Shooting: Conclude the weave with a shot on goal to integrate shooting practice into the drill.
• Pick Variation: After passing to a wing player, follow up with a pick to develop offensive strategies and movement.