Tic-Tac-Toe Cradling Drill
This drill combines decision-making, speed, and stick control by integrating the classic tic-tac-toe game with relays and ball carrying. It is ideal for improving cradle skills under pressure and encouraging quick execution of strategic movements.
Drill Objective
Improve ball control while in motion.
Encourage quick decision-making.
Develop speed and precision in movements.
Enhance communication and teamwork.
Required Equipment
1 lacrosse ball per team.
Lacrosse sticks for all players.
Cones or pinnies to mark the tic-tac-toe grid.
Additional cones to define the starting and finishing zones.
Drill Development
Field Setup:
A tic-tac-toe grid is drawn on the ground using cones or lacrosse sticks.
Two starting zones, one for each team, are placed about 10-15 yards from the grid.
Drill Execution:
Each team has a set number of markers (pinnies, cones, or another identifiable object).
Players must carry the ball using cradle technique from the starting zone to the tic-tac-toe grid.
Game Rules:
Players must cradle the ball at all times without throwing or dropping it before reaching the grid.
Once at the grid, the player places her marker in an empty square and quickly returns to her team.
The next player in line takes the relay and repeats the action.
Fair Play Rules:
Players cannot interfere with the opponent’s markers.
Players cannot hit or touch the opposing team’s ball.
The drill continues until one team completes a line of three in a row.
Drill Variations
Increased difficulty: Extend the distance between the starting zone and the grid.
Pressure play: Add a defender to challenge the ball carrier.
Time limit: Set a maximum time to complete each round.
Drill Benefits
Improves cradle skills while in motion and under pressure.
Reinforces real-time strategic decision-making.
Increases speed and coordination in competitive situations.
Encourages communication and teamwork.
This drill not only enhances lacrosse technical skills but also adds an element of fun and competition. Integrate it into your training sessions and challenge your team to improve their speed and decision-making!
