Lacrosse Tip

Presented by Brian Lalley, Camp Director

Transition Defense

Campers in action during a scrimmage.

Transition Defense

Xcelerate Nike Lacrosse National Program Director, Brian Lalley, discusses Transition Defense:

Today’s coaching tip is very basic but extremely important. Lacrosse is a fast, up and down game. Teams are always looking for opportunities to push the ball when the opposing defense is unsettled or they have a transition opportunity. As a player that is involved in the defensive part of the field, we want to take away as many of these opportunities from our opponent as possible.

GET IN THE HOLE!!

As soon as the ball hits the ground or the goalie makes a save, a lot of midfielders want to see what happens next or help on the ground ball by the goal. It is the attack’s job to fight for the loose ball and put pressure on the close defense and goalie. It is critical that the midfielders get in the hole and defends against their opponent’s transition.

Maximize Numbers

Any numbers situation for an offense is a combination of 2 v 1’s. As a defense, we want to maximize the numbers, meaning a 5 v 4 is better than a 4 v 3. A 6 v 5 is better than a 5 v 4. Getting in the hole and not jumping up field to a ball carrier also gives our trailing midfielders and defenders time to get back in and number up.

Xcelerate Nike Lacrosse Camps
To get more great tips and instruction like this, join us this summer at one of our Xcelerate Nike Lacrosse Camps!