Swat the Fly Shooting is a balance and shooting-mechanics drill that helps players feel how the hips, core, and control hand work together through the shot. This drill was originally created by Duke Lacrosse
Set Up
Players balance on their lead leg and use only their control hand to bring the stick into a loaded position. From there, they rotate the hips and upper body, drive the arm through the shooting motion, and release the stick forward with one hand, similar to the motion of swatting a fly.
Coaching Points & Principles
- The drill challenges players to stay balanced while learning to create an efficient release without relying heavily on their legs or bottom hand.
- Players should focus on getting loaded, initiating the movement through the hips, allowing the upper body to follow, and accelerating the stick through the release.
- This helps build a better feel for sequencing, control-hand involvement, and finishing the shot.
Progressions
- Younger Player Adjustment: Keep the same balance challenge by having players stay on their lead leg, but allow them to shoot two-handed. This maintains the focus on balance, rotation, and body control while making the shooting motion easier to manage.
