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Ground ball skills are essential for lacrosse players aiming to dominate possession and control the game. Improving these skills requires specific drills that enhance agility, technique, and confidence in scooping and securing the ball. Here are some of the top drills to elevate your ground ball game and stay competitive on the field.
Fundamental Ground Ball Drill
This drill helps players develop proper technique for scooping ground balls efficiently. Start by placing cones or markers in a line. Have a partner or coach roll or gently toss ground balls at different angles along the line. The player must sprint to the ball, get low, and scoop it up with proper form, keeping the stick close to the ground. Focus on quick reactions and smooth scooping motion.
Reaction and Agility Drill
Enhance your reaction time and agility with this drill. Set up multiple ground balls randomly around a designated area. On a signal, the player must quickly move to the nearest ball, scoop it up, and then react to the next call or signal. This simulates game situations where ground balls come from unpredictable angles and speeds.
Partner Chase Drill
This drill emphasizes quickness and competitive edge. Pair up players and have one serve as the chaser and the other as the ground ball provider. The provider drops or rolls ground balls in random directions within a defined space. The chaser must sprint, change direction, and scoop the ball before the partner retrieves it. Switch roles after a set time or number of attempts.
Wall Ball Ground Ball Practice
Using a wall, players can practice scooping and clearing ground balls repeatedly. Stand a few feet from the wall and toss ground balls at different angles. As the ball rebounds, quickly move to scoop it up and pass it back against the wall or to a teammate. This drill improves hand-eye coordination, speed, and consistency in ground ball pickups.
Tips for Success
- Always stay low and keep your stick close to the ground.
- Practice with both hands to become versatile in game situations.
- Focus on quick reactions and explosive movements.
- Incorporate these drills into regular practice to build muscle memory.
By consistently practicing these drills, lacrosse players can significantly improve their ground ball skills, gaining an edge over opponents and increasing their contribution to the team’s success. Remember, mastering ground balls is about speed, technique, and confidence — so stay dedicated and keep practicing!