Dodging and escapes are critical skills for offensive players looking to evade defenders and create scoring opportunities. Whether you’re facing one defender or multiple, your ability to dodge and escape from pressure can make a huge difference in the outcome of a game. This page covers key techniques and drills that will help you improve your dodging and escape abilities, making you a more dynamic offensive player.
In lacrosse, the ability to dodge effectively allows players to create space and gain separation from defenders. Whether you’re trying to beat a defender to the goal or create an open lane for a pass, mastering dodges and escapes will give you a significant advantage on the field. A strong dodger can manipulate the defense, open up plays for teammates, and capitalize on offensive opportunities.
Split Dodge: The split dodge is one of the most fundamental dodging techniques in lacrosse. To perform the split dodge, quickly change direction by stepping with one foot in one direction and then cutting back in the opposite direction. This move helps you create separation from the defender and is effective in a one-on-one situation.
Roll Dodge: The roll dodge is a great move when you want to get around a defender while maintaining control of the ball. To execute a roll dodge, take a hard step in one direction, then pivot on your back foot, using your body to shield the defender and rolling around them to create space.
Face Dodge: The face dodge is used to deceive the defender by faking one direction, then quickly going the other way. By lowering your shoulder and faking a move toward one side, you can freeze the defender, then explode to the opposite side to get past them.
Swim Dodge: The swim dodge is effective for getting past defenders when they are close to you. To execute it, use your free hand to “swim” over the defender’s stick or body, pushing them aside while using your body to drive past them.
In addition to dodging, escape moves are crucial for getting out of tight situations when defenders are closing in. These moves help you create separation and maintain possession of the ball while under pressure:
Mastering dodging and escape techniques is essential for any lacrosse player who wants to dominate offensively. Whether you’re trying to get past a defender or escape pressure, these skills will give you the confidence to take on any defensive challenge. By practicing different dodging moves and escape strategies, you’ll improve your ability to create scoring opportunities and lead your team to victory.
A dodge is a deliberate movement to beat a defender, while an escape focuses on creating separation when trapped. Pair dodging skills with anticipation & recognition drills to read the defense effectively.
Keep your body between the defender and the ball, maintain a secure stick pocket, and use fakes to mislead opponents. Learning defensive stickwork can help anticipate checks.
Use roll dodges to attack from behind, split dodges for quick lateral moves, and face dodges to approach from the front. Combine with footwork drills for maximum efficiency.
Yes. Practicing dodges and escapes teaches you to anticipate defensive reactions, improve spacing, and enhance decision-making, complementing lacrosse IQ drills.
Combine dodging with passing and shooting drills to open passing lanes, create scoring opportunities, and support team offense principles.
Daily practice of dodging and escape drills, along with advanced skill-level drills, is recommended to maintain agility, precision, and confidence under pressure.
Using body and stick fakes tricks defenders into committing early, creating space for your dodge or escape. Pair fakes with passing drills and shooting drills to capitalize on opportunities immediately.
