Small area games are a fantastic way to improve fundamental lacrosse skills in a high-intensity environment. By creating competitive, confined spaces on the field, players are forced to make quicker decisions, enhance their communication, and develop their teamwork. These games not only make practice more engaging but also mimic real-game situations, helping players sharpen their skills in a more dynamic way. This page explores the benefits of small area games and provides drills that focus on critical aspects of lacrosse such as passing, ground ball control, defense, and decision-making.
Small area games are designed to improve specific aspects of a player’s skill set in a game-like setting. These games often involve a reduced playing area, which increases the speed of the game and forces players to make quicker decisions. Players will need to work on their positioning, timing, communication, and teamwork, all while maintaining high levels of intensity. By simulating high-pressure scenarios, small area games also help players build mental toughness and adaptability. Whether it’s improving passing accuracy, defensive positioning, or ground ball control, small area games help players develop a wide range of lacrosse skills.
Small area games focus on different aspects of lacrosse, whether it’s ground ball control, defensive teamwork, passing under pressure, or decision-making. Below are several small area drills that can be used to enhance specific skills in a fun, competitive environment:
The Ground Ball Rodeo is a fun and engaging drill focused on ground ball control. Players compete to scoop up loose balls in tight spaces while avoiding defenders. This drill is great for warming up, as it helps players practice quick reactions, control, and decision-making under pressure.
The 64 Drill emphasizes defensive teamwork, communication, and on/off ball support. In this drill, the offense has a numerical advantage, but the defense can counter by working together and supporting each other. The focus is on quick passes, defensive rotations, and maintaining communication throughout the play.
The Small Field Rabbit Game keeps both teams on their toes by constantly changing the situation. This fun and fast-paced drill forces players to stay alert and adapt to the rapidly changing dynamics of the game. It’s a great way to practice both offensive and defensive skills in a confined space while improving team coordination.
The 4v3 Keep Away drill is a great way to improve passing accuracy, quick decision-making, and deception. In this drill, the offensive team tries to maintain possession while the defensive team tries to force a turnover. The offensive players work on using fakes, quick passes, and maintaining good spacing to keep the ball moving and evade defenders.
Small area games provide an excellent opportunity for lacrosse players to improve their skills in a fun, fast-paced environment. Whether it’s enhancing passing, ground ball control, or defensive teamwork, these games simulate real-game situations where quick decisions and teamwork are key. Incorporating small area games into practice will help you become a more well-rounded player, improve your mental and physical agility, and prepare you for high-intensity game situations. Start using these drills in your training routine, and you’ll see significant improvement in your overall performance on the field.
