2016 FYL Coaching Manual - LeagueAthletics.comfiles.leagueathletics.com/Text/Documents/13639/60185.pdf · 2016 FYL Coaching Manual 5 2. Coaching Requirements In an effort to maintain

2016 FYL Coaching Manual

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Table of Contents

1. Fairfield Youth Lacrosse Philosophy ........................................................ 4

2. Coaching Requirements........................................................................... 5

3. Codes of Conduct .................................................................................... 6

3.1. Coach Code of Conduct ................................................................................ 6

3.2. Player Code of Conduct ................................................................................ 8

3.3. Parent Code of Conduct ............................................................................... 9

4. FYL Curriculum ...................................................................................... 10

4.1. Objective ................................................................................................. 10

4.2. Skills Progression ...................................................................................... 10

4.3. Fairfield Youth Lacrosse Curriculum Individual Skills Matrix ............................ 12

4.4. Developing a Lacrosse “IQ” ........................................................................ 15

4.5. Developing Team Skills .............................................................................. 16

5. Coaching Guidelines .............................................................................. 17

5.1. US Lacrosse Top 10 Tips for Developing Youth Athletes .................................. 17

5.2. Best Practices Recommendations- Practices and Skills: .................................. 18

5.2.1. Running Effective Practices ................................................................................................. 18

5.2.2. Offensive Skills and Concepts ............................................................................................. 19

5.2.3. Defensive Skills and Concepts ............................................................................................. 21

5.2.4. Goalie Play ........................................................................................................................... 22

5.2.5. Face Offs .............................................................................................................................. 22

5.2.6. Communication ................................................................................................................... 23

5.3. Playing Time ............................................................................................. 23

5.4. Safety Guidelines ...................................................................................... 24

6. Sample Practice Plans ........................................................................... 26

7. Fairfield Youth Lacrosse Core Drills ....................................................... 45

8. Fairfield Youth Lacrosse Commonly Used Terms ................................... 47


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1. Fairfield Youth Lacrosse Philosophy

Fairfield Youth Lacrosse (FYL) is a non-profit organization whose primary purpose is to promote the

game of lacrosse in the Town of Fairfield in a fun, safe and sportsmanlike environment. FYL will strive to

make its lacrosse programming inclusive and accessible to families in the Town of Fairfield. FYL is

dedicated to the skill development of our participants without emphasis on a team’s winning record.

FYL will endeavor to instill the values of sportsmanship, respect, teamwork, fair play and a love of the

sport of lacrosse for players, coaches and officials. FYL believes that sportsmanship is a way of life and

will set an example of good sportsmanship and friendly competition for our young players. Fairfield

Youth Lacrosse is an active member of US Lacrosse and the Positive Coaching Alliance.

In the spirit of this philosophy, we have composed guidelines for our coaches that are designed to help

them with the practical challenges of coaching and to clarify expectations regarding the execution of our

curriculum. This manual will attempt to provide a framework that our coaches are meant to follow in

order to provide continuity across the program in ways that promote best practices as defined through

feedback among the Fairfield coaching staff as well as guidelines from organizations such as US Lacrosse

and Positive Coaching Alliance. While each coach will contribute his or her own style to teaching

lacrosse, the FYL Board believes that certain standards should be pervasive across the program and help

set a tone of excellence that will continue to endure over the years among all Fairfield lacrosse

participants.

We hope the manual will become a “living document” such that each year participants in the youth

program can add constructive feedback based on their own experiences. This will improve our program

for future players, coaches, and parents with the aim of making youth lacrosse in Fairfield among the

best possible lacrosse experience available anywhere.


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2. Coaching Requirements

In an effort to maintain the highest level of coaching experience for staff and players, the following are

requirements for all Fairfield Youth Lacrosse coaches for the 2016 season:

Head coaches for each grade must be sponsored by the FYL Board.

Participation in a Positive Coaching Alliance (PCA) “Double Goal Coaching” session. This can be

done in person, as provided by the FYL board prior to the beginning of each season, or on line

through PCA’s website at: www.positivecoach.org.

Completion of the US Lacrosse Level 1 online course. This can be found at www.uslacrosse.org.

Review, sign, and follow the FYL Coach’s Code of Conduct.

Review of this manual and 2016 Boys\Girls Youth Rules.

Communication. Our program will not be successful unless coaches communicate with players,

parents, and each other.

In addition, FYL Board highly recommends that coaches:

Work towards becoming US Lacrosse Level 1 certified as a lacrosse coach. This includes

completing the two required programs outlined above (PCA and US Lacrosse Level 1 online

course) AND attending one in-person US Lacrosse Instructional Clinic. Dates and times for such

clinics are available at www.uslacrosse.org.

Utilize the US Mobile lacrosse website to develop and post practice plans, such that they will be

available for parents, players, and future coaches to review.

Provide a written summary of what worked and did not at the end of the season to the FYL

board so that we can document feedback for future coaches of each grade.

http://www.positivecoach.org/

http://www.uslacrosse.org/

http://www.uslacrosse.org/


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3. Codes of Conduct

3.1. Coach Code of Conduct

Fairfield Youth Lacrosse appreciates your commitment as a coach to helping and working with the youth

of our community. As coaches, we should all recognize the profound effect our actions may have on our

youth lacrosse participants. In order to promote a positive, fun, and healthy environment, the Board of

the FYL has adopted the following Coach’s Code of Conduct, which shall be agreed to by all coaches and

assistant coaches participating in the program:

1. I will emphasize at all times that playing lacrosse is an opportunity to be part of a team, and that

sportsmanship, camaraderie, and respect are valuable priorities of the Fairfield lacrosse community. I

will deemphasize playing only to win but rather promote the sport, healthy competition, and the desire

to continually improve by developing one’s own skills and working together as a team. By instilling these

ideals, I will provide both players and parents with a better opportunity for success through their future

participation in lacrosse and other sports.

2. Winning is a very important goal in coaching, but it will not be my only goal. I will keep in perspective

that these young people have an interest in a great game. I will encourage and enhance that interest

and not create an environment that promotes winning at all costs. I understand that coaching is a

privilege, and that in my role as coach, I am an ambassador of the game and a role model for my team. I

understand that my behavior and actions will have a great influence on the future participation of these

young players and their enjoyment of the game.

3. I acknowledge that FYL expects that all coaches and assistant coaches involved in the FYL program

will adhere to a high standard of personal conduct.

4. I will minimize individual accolades and promote the team concept of success. I will make decisions

without favoritism or prejudice.

5. I will instill in my players the concepts of teamwork and sportsmanship that are consistent with the

objectives of FYL.

6. I will avoid both verbal and physical confrontations with parents, other coaches and officials. I will

never get into an argument with a parent in the presence of any player or others. If I have any criticism

of an official’s performance, I will do it through proper channels by reporting it to the FYL Board, and will

never create a scene on the field during or after a game. I will communicate clearly to parents the

expectations of the FYL for all players, parents, and coaches.

7. I will refrain from smoking and not tolerate the use or anyone under the influence of alcohol or any

illegal or controlled substance around participants.

8. I will refrain from using any language which is racially or ethnically offensive or which is in any way

discriminatory towards others. I will not use profane, obscene, or other off color language.


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9. I will not initiate physical contact with any player for disciplinary reasons.

10. I will attend any lacrosse clinics or coaches’ meetings required by the FYL.

11. I will not use my authority as a coach to allow a participant to have special treatment, whether

related to myself, other coaches or personal friends.

12. I will not use in a practice or game a player who appears to need medical attention until such time as

competent medical advice is available and that player is cleared by a doctor to play.

13. I will seek to control disruptive or excessively outspoken parents or fans.

14. I will accept the decisions of game officials.

15. I will never verbally abuse or criticize a player in front of spectators, but reserve constructive

coaching/teaching for a later time in private or in the presence of other team members if others might

benefit.

16. I will never criticize, belittle, antagonize, berate or otherwise incite an opposing team, its players,

coaches, or fans by word of mouth or by gesture.

17. I will demonstrate sportsmanship at all times.

18. I will be ever conscious of not running up the score. If my team has a commanding lead, and the

outcome of the game is not in doubt, every effort shall be made to let all players play.

19. I will not permit an ineligible player, a player without proper equipment or the appropriate medical

clearance to participate in practice, scrimmage or games.

20. I am responsible for reading, understanding, and adhering to the following:

• The Fairfield Youth Lacrosse Manual

• US Lacrosse 2016 Rules for Boys\Girls Youth Lacrosse

• The FYL Coaches and Players Code of Conduct

21. I will abide by the rules, regulations, policies and procedures outlined in the Fairfield Youth Lacrosse

Manual and all referenced documentation herein at all times along with any and all decisions made by

the FYL Board of Directors.

22. I further acknowledge that if I violate any of the above guidelines I may be subject to disciplinary

action by the FYL which may include an oral or written warning, suspension from or termination of my

position as a coach.

Participant’s Printed Name Signature Date


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3.2. Player Code of Conduct

1. I will respect my teammates, coaches, referees and opponents at all times. This means:

- I will not bully, taunt, or tease a teammate or opponent for any reason.

- I will not dispute or argue the decision of a coach or official.

- I will strive to learn from my coaches and pay attention during practices.

2. I will Support and encourage my teammates. I will strive to set a positive example.

3. I will display good sportsmanship at all times on and off the field. I will be modest in victory and

gracious in defeat.

4. I agree to conduct myself with dignity as a participant of Fairfield Youth Lacrosse and as a citizen of

the community.

5. I will arrive to practices/games on time, prepared and ready to go. I will give 100% effort at each

practice and game.

6. I will strive to Know the rules of the game of lacrosse and abide by them.

7. I will Wear the required equipment at all games and practices.

8. I will agree to maintain my studies and respect my teachers and counselors.

9. I will not use profane language or gestures.

10. I will avoid use of drugs, alcohol and/or any other illegal substances, as they will impact my health

and my performance on the field in a negative way.

11. I will be fully accountable for my behavior and its outcome. Individual discipline is the only way to maintain team safety. I understand that discipline problems will not be tolerated and could result in my being suspended or removed from the team.

Participant’s Printed Name Signature Date

TRAVEL COMMITMENT: Travel team placement and playing time will be based upon the 3 "A's":

Attitude, Aptitude and Attendance. We expect that if you play travel lacrosse, you will make lacrosse

your PRIORITY this spring. All travel rosters will be flexible and FYLax reserves the right to move players

when deemed appropriate.


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3.3. Parent Code of Conduct

1. Teach and practice good sportsmanship at all games and practices. You are role models!

2. Know the rules of the game of lacrosse.

3. Respect the game of lacrosse. Respect the officials. Respect the coaches, who are volunteers.

4. Do not coach your child. Let players play and coaches coach, and support both positively.

5. Do not EVER criticize other players regardless of the circumstance.

6. Follow the "24 Hour Rule"; if you have a complaint resulting from a game (or practice) situation,

speak with the coach on the following day.

7. If there is a serious problem, please use the FYL Grievance Policy.

8. Emphasize the FUN of the game and the team, putting forth effort at all times, not wins and losses.

Parent’s Printed Name Signature Date


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4. FYL Curriculum

4.1. Objective

Our objective is to formulate a complete curriculum for the boys’ lacrosse program that fosters the

development of players and coaches at every level of the program and is consistent with the philosophy

of the program. The intent of this section of the manual is to develop an evolutionary structure which is

driven by the contributions of coaches, and through observations of experts in the field, and will

become the guide for the organization for years to come. Central to the success of this curriculum will

be the offering of an environment where young kids can develop skills in a fun and positive setting.

The foundation of the curriculum is based on the development of our player’s fundamental lacrosse

skills. This, in combination with our focus on sportsmanship, camaraderie, work ethic, respect, and fun

will help achieve our goal of instilling a lifelong passion for the game of lacrosse. Achieving these

outcomes in our players and coaches will inevitably lead to a winning program, which is an important,

but secondary goal.

4.2. Skills Progression

At the youngest levels, little can get accomplished without first developing the social and motor skills

necessary to be part of a well functioning team. Getting 1st -4th graders just to focus and listen is

essential before they can learn anything from you. We aim to build from the bottom up. Team skills will

be very important in high school but learning to develop individual skills and knowing how to interact on

a team is the priority of the youth lacrosse program. Without this basic foundation, there is little benefit

to teaching set offensive or defensive plays, or moving onto more advanced concepts. The basic

fundamentals of proper catching, throwing, scooping, dodging, shooting need to be drilled over and

over again before more advanced concepts can be implemented.


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Skills Pyramid

Team Skills Group Skills

Individual Skills Social and Motor Skills

The following development grids are meant to describe the skills progression we

strive for among our youth lacrosse participants. Coaches are responsible for

ensuring that all players have every opportunity to achieve these standards.


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4.3. Fairfield Youth Lacrosse Curriculum Individual Skills Matrix

Introduced

Competent

Mastered

Offensive

Grades

Scooping

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Stationary

Moving

Contested

Contested

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

2 Hand Strong

2 Hand Weak

1 Hand Strong

1 Hand Weak

1 Hand Strong Protection

1 Hand Weak Protection

Passing\Catching

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Pass Strong

Pass Weak

Catch Strong

Catch Weak

Over Shoulder Strong

Over Shoulder Weak

On the Move

Wall Ball

Underhand

Sidearm

Dodging

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Face Strong

Face Weak

Roll Strong

Roll Weak

Split Strong

Split Weak

Feeding

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Uncontested

Cradle to Feed

Transition


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Fairfield Youth Lacrosse Curriculum Individual Skills Matrix

Introduced

Competent

Mastered

Offensive

Grades

Shooting

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Overhand Strong

Overhand Weak

Bounce Strong

Bounce Weak

Quick Stick Strong

Quick Stick Weak

Time & Space Strong

Time & Space Weak

On Run Strong

On Run Weak

Sidearm Strong

Sidearm Weak

Defensive

Grades

Body Position

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

See Man & Ball

Head on Swivel

One v One

Pinch

Footwork Shuffle

Footwork Drop Step

Slide

Checks

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Poke

Lift

Slap

Goal Keeping

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Body Position

Stick Position


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Fairfield Youth Lacrosse Curriculum Individual Skills Matrix

Introduced

Competent

Mastered

Faceoff

Grades

Faceoff Man

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Clamp & Rake

Counter

Wings

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Position

Plan

Athleticism

Flexibility

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Warm-Ups

Dynamic Stretching

Statick Stretches

Agility

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Lateral

Diagonal

Forward\Back

Quickness

Speed

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Spring

Interval

Endurance

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Distance

Strength

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Wrist\Forearm

Legs

Upper Body


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4.4. Developing a Lacrosse “IQ”

Kids need to continually work on their basic stick skills, but also need to start learning the basic concepts

of the game at an early age. These concepts will be intuitive to some and more challenging to others.

But to advance our curriculum as efficiently and inclusively as possible, coaches need to strive to achieve

proficiency in these fundamental concepts based on the timeline set forth below. Develop the basic

concepts about how the game is played before spending time teaching set offensive plays.

Fairfield Youth Lacrosse Curriculum IQ Matrix

Introduced

Competent

Mastered

Offensive

Grades

Settled

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Create the Extra Man

Shooting Location

Keep your stick to the Outside

Movement without ball

V Cut

Skip Pass

Sneak

Look off \ Look away

Clearing\Transition

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Move the ball opposite

Turn to the sidelines

Defensive

Grades

Settled

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Protect the hole

Sticks up

1 v 1 positioning

Off ball positioning

When to slide

Transitional

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Beat your man back

On the fly subs

Rides

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Force the long pass


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4.5. Developing Team Skills

We expect coaches to strive for team proficiency in the following situational areas based on the timeline

outlined below.

Fairfield Youth Lacrosse Curriculum Team Skills Matrix

Introduced

Competent

Mastered

Offensive

Grades

Settled Offense

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Perimeter Passing

Triangle Offense

2-2-2

1-4-1

2-3-1

Transition

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Fast Break

Slow Break

Clearing

Face Offs

Extra Man

Defensive

Grades

Team Defense

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Man to Man

Zone

Fast Break

Riding

Faceoffs

Man Down


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5. Coaching Guidelines

5.1. US Lacrosse Top 10 Tips for Developing Youth Athletes

The following section contains tips from US Lacrosse as developed by Dr. Richard Ginsburg a member of

the US Lacrosse Sports Science and Safety Committee for the healthy development of youth athletes in

lacrosse and any other sport they may participate in:

Have fun. Kids remain active in a sport if they are having fun. Performance improves when

participants enjoy playing the game.

Teach sportsmanship early. Coaches must impart good values (integrity, respect, compassion,

etc.) and model good behavior.

Kids are not mini-adults. They are a work in progress and must be treated and coached

differently than adults.

Design age-appropriate practices. Coaches should consider the physical, psychological and

cognitive abilities of youth players when developing practice plans. In addition, coaches should

minimize the amount of time spent standing around during practice.

Define success appropriately for each age group. For pre-kindergarten and kindergarten aged

kids, focus on fun and safe activity. Among elementary school aged youth, emphasize

developing skills and friendships. With middle school and high school players, define and

recognize individual strengths and weaknesses.

Provide positive feedback. Research shows that a ratio of at least 5:1 between positive and

negative feedback is needed.

Save specialization for older kids. Research shows that an unrealistic number of hours of activity

are necessary to move a person’s skill set to a significantly upgraded level.

Avoid over-training. Ginsburg says youths should play just one sport per season, and have at

least 1-2 days off per week, and a break of at least two or three months from the game. He also

cautions against increases in training levels that increase the risk of injury.

Use appropriate equipment. Avoid ill-fitting hand-me-down equipment and make sure

equipment fits properly.

Avoid moving kids into older age groupings based on skill level or physical development.

Ginsburg says players risk injuries and social alienation when moved up.


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5.2. Best Practices Recommendations- Practices and Skills:

5.2.1. Running Effective Practices

PLAN! Coaches should have a written plan for each and every practice. Determine what drills to

use and how much time to spend on each. USL Mobile Coach can be a good repository for

practice plans. Make sure plans are consistent with your goals and the developmental stages for

your age group.

Be efficient. Enforce start time strictly. Maximize the amount of time kids spend “in action” and

minimize standing around time. Smaller groups are better than larger groups. Use stations

instead of full group drills that result in long lines and fewer touches. Maintain a level of

intensity to your practice. Have LOTS of balls.

Explain drills and concepts clearly so that kids know why you are doing a particular drill. Allow

for questions.

Be flexible. If something isn’t working, move on. If more time is needed than planned for a

crucial concept, allow for it.

Let conditioning be part of your drills. Don’t waste time on that which can be incorporated into

a skills drill and be fun at the same time.

Have some routines that are done at every practice. Try to end each practice with something fun

and positive.

Give players feedback. Complement great effort. Reward unselfish play. Never criticize- be

constructive when correcting mistakes.

Work on strong and weak hands whenever possible.

Be fair. Switch around roles so that everyone feels important. Find something positive to

highlight about each kid, regardless of how small.

Set rules. Be clear about consequences for breaking the rules (i.e. missing practice without a

reason or notice = no starting the next game).


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5.2.2. Offensive Skills and Concepts

Cradling

Use tips of fingers and thumb, not palms

Top hand near throat of stick; bottom hand near end of shaft

Controlled, crescent motion

Learn to keep stick in “box” area

Learn to use body to protect stick

Throwing/passing

Body position perpendicular to target

Step with opposite foot. Bottom of stick pointed towards target. Elbows up, “kiss the

shoulder”

Pull, push, and follow through

Consistency of hand placement on the stick

Teach to throw crisp passes, avoid lobs

Teach to lead the man on passes/feeds

Reinforce that a good pass or feed is as valuable to the team as a shot on goal

Scooping

Get low. Stick like a shovel and parallel to the ground

Scoop THROUGH the ball

Stick immediately up towards face and back to “box” area into ready position

Roll away from pressure

Use body to box out. Stick your butt out


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Dodging

Teach purpose of each dodge; don’t just go through the motions. Emphasize “north-

south” not “east-west”

Emphasize proper stick and foot movement; i.e. roll dodge foot plant- use opposite foot

from hand with ball. Roll to the outside and tight to the defender. Stick should drop

down between hips

Keep head up

Protect stick throughout (especially when coming out of the dodge)

Vary your speed. Bait with body movement. Explode out of your dodge.

Shooting

Hands should be up and away from the body

Good athletic stance

Emphasize overhand shots for accuracy

Emphasize that power comes from legs, body, and form, not strength (golfer analogy)

Snap of top wrist over the bottom as you follow through adds velocity

Aim where goalie stick is not (opposite side hip best)

Positioning

Spread the field. Maintain spacing and balance

Players move together (attached on a string analogy)

Emphasize movement; i.e. V-cuts to create open lanes. No standing around/ball

watching

Clear space for a man with ball coming toward you

Move with a purpose!

Picks/Screen

Go inside out to get out of line of defender

Man with ball should get as close to pick setter as possible (hip to hip) when making his

move.

Teach movements from on and off ball picks and screens- i.e. pick and roll, pick and pop


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5.2.3. Defensive Skills and Concepts

Positioning/Sliding

Play defense with your feet- most important

Strong athletic stance. On the balls of your feet.

Defense from inside (crease area) out.

Your body between your man and the goal.

Off ball: V shape between ball and your man. One foot should be pointed toward your

assigned player, the other foot towards the ball. “Head on a swivel”. See your man AND the

ball.

Position yourself to channel your opponent. Force away from the middle and down the

side. Force to use weak hand.

Drop step when opponent changes direction. Take away angles.

Sticks up in the passing lanes

When beaten, go to the hole. Then look for the open man.

Slide to where your opponent will be, not where he is.

In general, when sliding, leave the player open that is the greatest distance to the goal (least

threat).

Know primary slides and back up responsibilities

Stick checking

Keep it basic. Poke, lift, and slap checks on stick and glove only

Best to check when opponent is moving AWAY from the goal. Body positioning more

important when he is moving to the goal then checking.

Save the “kayak, etc” checks for when you’re older!


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Body Checking

Critical that all youth players know what is legal and what is not. Enforce strict adherence at

the youth level (no body checking U11).

Players must learn effective body positioning before body checking

Above waist and below shoulders with both hands together on stick. Never lead with head

Don’t sacrifice good positioning to initiate contact

5.2.4. Goalie Play

Hands and elbows in front of chest with hands raised

Head of stick even with cross bar

Protect the pipe closest to shooter

Proper stance. Balls of feet. Feet shoulder width part and weight forward

Body should move towards ball when making a save, driving top hand forward

Communicate with your defense!

Look towards the sides when clearing. Make the easy pass. Use your extra man advantage.

5.2.5. Face Offs

At the youth level, focus on mastering one or two moves (clamp and rake).

Developing the proper stance will result in more face-off wins. Keep weight off the hands.

Line up the same way every time.

Line up right foot with right hand as close to stick head as possible with left foot back. Left

hand in middle of shaft.

Right foot as pivot point as left foot steps forward

Stay as low as possible.

Have a plan with your wingman. He should know what you are trying to do.


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5.2.6. Communication

Get kids in this habit early!

Goalie is key director.

Players should be vocal. Set your terms. “I got man,” “I got your help,” I’m one,” I’m two,”

“hold,” “ball down”, etc.

5.3. Playing Time

U9 policy should be “equal time” for all players. Coaches should also have every player play

every position (except goalie). Rotate starters regularly.

U11 policy should be to strive for reasonable equality in playing time. However, emphasis

should be on rewarding players for effort and commitment. Position rotation should still be

emphasized. Rotate starters regularly.

U13-15 should have a merit based playing time approach. Important to emphasize to players

that no one is guaranteed any amount of playing time or starting privileges throughout the

season. Everyone has the chance to prove they deserve a starting spot every week.


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5.4. Safety Guidelines

Make safety your top priority! Be aware of danger signs and risks. There are multiple resources available on the web to educate you about youth athlete safety. You can begin at www.youthsportssafteyalliance.org and at www.uslacrosse.org.

Ensure kids have the proper, well fitting, equipment which conforms to all required standards.

At a minimum, a basic first aid kit should be with you at all practices and games.

Have a cell phone on site for 911 calls. Have a list of emergency contact numbers

Stop play immediately in case of lightning

Take potential head injuries seriously! Know the symptoms of a concussion:

Common Symptoms of Concussion:

headache fogginess difficulty concentrating easily confused slowed thought processes difficulty with memory nausea lack of energy, tiredness dizziness, poor balance blurred vision sensitive to light and sounds mood changes, irritable, anxious, or tearful

Suggested Concussion Management

No athlete may return to game play or practice on the same day of a concussion. Any athlete suspected of having a concussion should be evaluated by an appropriate health

care professional that day. Any athlete with a concussion must be medically cleared by an appropriate health care

professional prior to resuming participation in any practice or competition. After medical clearance, the decision for a player to return to play should follow a step-wise

protocol. There also should be provisions for delaying a player’s return based on any signs or symptoms of a concussion.

Return to play guidelines are subject to state regulations

http://www.youthsportssafteyalliance.org/


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6. Sample Practice Plans

Use small groups whenever possible. Mix it up from practice to practice, but keep some drills the same to establish routine. Combine drills and conditioning. Keep things moving!

Sample Practice Plan 1:

Practice Name: Early season 3rd Grade

Date: 3/16/2013

Coach: Jim Kuczo

Estimated Duration: 93 minutes

Drills:

Triangle line Drills or D’Artangan’s 10 minutes

5 Yard Scoop Drill 10 minutes

Three pressure ground ball drill 15 minutes

4-Points 1 v 1 Drill 10 minutes

3 Minute Water Break 3 minutes

Change of Direction Drill 15 minutes

4 v 3 Drill 15 minutes

Pentagon Drill 15 minutes


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Triangle Line Drills

Drill Specs Drill Theme: Ball Movement

Field Position: Offense, Defense, Midfield

Drill Style: Warm Up, Skills Time Needed: 10 Min

Field Location: Midfield Skill Level: Basic

Objective

Virtually all line drills can be run in triangles, use for passing and ground balls. Triangle drills are exhausting if run properly, constant motion, players well spread out, changing direction regularly. Triangles should not be run every day, great for variation from standard line drills (1.5 minutes each way, then switch, then rest).

Description of Drill

Use cones to teach the distance you want the players to run and the triangle form that the players should keep (distances of 15-20 yards between points is ideal) Have the players move the ball in one direction and then follow the pass to then next cone or locations. The player receiving the pass should look to catch the ball on the run and get rid of the ball as soon as they can to the next player. All players should be moving constantly and should work on moving the balls as fast as they can.

Skills Practiced • Ball Movement (Catching and Throwing)

• Strong and Weak Hand Play • Ground Balls • Conditioning

Variations Spread players out to increase conditioning and length of passes. You can also reverse

directions on a whistle to keep the players moving both directions and reacting to the other players, the whistle, and the situations. Look to have your players do this drill at game speed.


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3 Man 2 Ball

Drill Specs Drill Theme: Ball Movement Field Position: Offense, Defense, Midfield



Objective Can use for passing and ground balls. 3 Man 2 Balls are exhausting if run properly, constant

motion, players well spread out, changing direction regularly. Excellent way to start every practice to work on passing, throwing, catching while on the move.


Lines of 3 players. Man in middle starts with ball. He moves towards and passes to end player. End player quickly passes back to him. Middle player then turns with ball and runs towards other end player. He passes to other end player who then passes it back, Middle player should be moving constantly and all players should work on moving the balls as fast as they can. Switch players until everyone had played the middle. Strong and weak hands. Keep the intensity high.

X X X

X X X

X X X

X X X


• Strong and Weak Hand Play

• Conditioning

Variations Middle player passes to end player who then throws the ball down to other end player, while

middle player goes towards and around the end player he threw to and goes back to the

middle where he receives pass from other end player, passes it right back, and continues

through and around the end player.

1 2

3 4

5

6


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5 Yard Scoop Drill

Drill Specs Drill Theme: Ground Balls

Field Position: Midfield Drill Style: Skills, Warm Up Time Needed: 10 Min


Objective To teach players the basics of ground ball pickups, by doing repetitive scoops down the field.


Have your player’s line up at one end line or side line, all with a lacrosse ball. On the first whistle the players will roll the ball out about 5 yards. On the second whistle the players will run to the ball and quickly get into a scoop position over top of the ball, and freeze. On the third whistle they will scoop through the ball and sprint to the next line, cone or endline. Repeat this drill the length of the field, or back and forth between cones 10 yards apart.

Skills Practiced Ground Balls

Conditioning


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Three Pressure Ground Ball Drills

Drill Specs Drill Theme: Ground Balls

Field Position: Offense, Defense Drill Style: Skills, Games Time Needed: 20 Min

Field Location: Full Field Skill Level: Intermediate

Objective To focus players on ground balls and allow them to use the whole field and special situations

to better their lacrosse IQ’s and ground ball play.


Crease Crunch: Coach rolls ball in for 2v2 GB with quick shot for winner

FO Wing GB: GB from wing, fight for ball, pass back to coach

Advantage GB: Coach rolls ball to one side or other creating advantage, winner shoots and loser must cut off shooter and play defense. This is fun for long sticks.

Skills Practiced Ground Balls

Communication

Shooting

Variations Have players who win the ground balls shoot on goal and have the players who lose the

ground ball, break out for a clear if the goalie makes the save.


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4-Point 1 v 1’s Drill

Drill Specs Drill Theme: 1 v 1

Field Position: Offense, Defense Drill Style: Skills Time Needed: 10 Min

Field Location: Attack Zone Skill Level: Basic

Objective This drill is excellent for teaching players 1 v 1 tactics and skills on both offense and

defense. The objective is to either beat your player to the whole for a shot, or to defend in proper form and cause a turn over or a low angle shot.

Drill Description Set up 4 cones around the attack box, one at X (Behind the cage) and one at the top or

Point. Then have 2 other cones out wide. Have a line of both offense and defense at each cone. The offensive player will be going 1 on 1 with the defender. The coach starts each 1 on 1 by throwing the ball to the offensive player at each line; you may also roll the ball to start with a ground ball. The player will gather the ball and go to goal, taking the defender 1 on 1. The coach should give each 1 on 1 4 -5 second to develop into a shot or take away, after that a double whistle should blow and end the 1 on1. After each 1 on 1, the coach will throw to another line and start that line. Have the players on offense rotate clockwise and the defense rotates counterclockwise, so that you get a different mix of players going 1 on 1 each time.


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Skills Practiced • Dodging • Cradling • Defense Positioning • 1 v 1

Variation Vary the locations where the 1 on 1 will start. You may also have the goalie clear out each

save, or even clear each goal to a breaking defender. This can work on a re-break situation.


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Change of Direction Drill

Drill Specs Drill Theme: Cradling and

Dodging Field Position: Offense

Drill Style: Skills Time Needed: 15 Min

Field Location: Attack Zone Skill Level: Intermediate

Objective This drill is excellent for teaching players to dodge, use footwork, and transition movements

into a shot. The concept of getting time and space to get a shot off is the main theme of the Change of Direction drill.

Drill Description Set up 4 cones as shown in the diagram. At each cone your players will perform either a

dodge, switch, change of direction, and finish with a shot on goal. The concept of getting time and space to shoot is all about changing direction and moving to get your hands free to shoot at the goal. Have your players work on powering off each move at the cone, and finish with a moving shot at the end.

Skills Practiced Dodging

Conditioning Footwork Shooting

Variation Vary the locations where the cones are set up. You may also add defense at the last cone to

simulate how and where you need to create time and space for the shot. Lastly, add targets on net or add a goalie to make your shooter work different locations on the goal.


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4 v 3 Drill

Drill Specs Drill Theme: Number

Advantages Field Position: Offense, Defense

Drill Style: Skills, Games Time Needed: 15 Min

Field Location: Half Field Skill Level: Basic

Objective Drill that have players work 4 on 3 in the half field. You can work either 4 on 3 with the

offense up a player or the defense up a player.

Drill Description Have 4 players on offense go against 3 players on defense.

The coach can start the ball from a ground ball or a pass into the players. Player goes until there is a goal, save, clear or whistle.

Skills Practices Stick Handling

Ball Movement Defensive Positioning Slides

Variation Switch and have your defense go up with 4 players and the offense work with 3 players.

Have your players on defense clear all saves or takeaways outside the attack zone. Also, add rules requiring a number of passes, or other skills that need to be worked on at the given moment.


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Pentagon Drill

Drill Specs Drill Theme: Defensive Drill

Field Position: Defense Drill Style: Game Time Needed: 15 Min

Field Location: Half Field Skill Level: Intermediate

Objective To improve on and off ball defensive positioning.

Drill Description Set up 5 cones in the shape of a pentagon about 10 yards apart. Have a sixth cone in the

center of the drill. An offensive player and a defensive player stand at each of the 5 outside cones. Offensive players (X) are working on moving the ball and eventually trying to cut inside to touch the center cone. Defenders (D) must work on seeing both ball and player and keeping their sticks up in the passing lanes. They must constantly communicate with each other and anticipate passes, cuts, blocks and interceptions. As the drill progresses, defenders can work on double teaming and then re-setting as the ball is moved.

Skills Practiced Defensive positioning Correct defensive angles off-ball Effective defensive communication Proper stick positioning Sliding to teammates and double teaming

Variations Have offensive players and defensive players switch positions so every player gets to work

on all aspects of the drill.


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Sample Practice Plan 2

Practice Name: Mid Season 3rd Grade

Date: 3/16/2013

Coach: Jim Kuczo

Estimated Duration: 88 minutes

Drills:

Star Drill GB and Passes 10 minutes

X Weave Drill 10 minutes

Shooting on the Run 10 minutes

Over the Top Shooting Drill 10 minutes

Even Numbers 15 minutes

3 Minute Water Break 3 minutes

Clears after the Shot Drill 10 minutes

10 v 10 Drill 20 minutes


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Star Drill: GB’s and Passes





Objective Improve the player’s ability to move the ball, while avoiding contact with the other players.

The drill will work basic stick skills and can be done with ground ball pickups or passing and catching.


5 lines in a star shape, can be around goal, 30 yards apart diagonally, movement both clockwise and counter clockwise.

Start with one ground ball then progress to multiple balls and then passing.

Pass ball to player two lines away from you on the star(#1 pass to #3, #3 pass to #5, #5 pass to #2, #2 pass to #4).

Constant motion, multiple balls, lots of communication, know who is giving you the ball and who you will give it to in advance of getting the ball, focus while in line.

4 balls seems to be max for simultaneous motion.

Each line of players should have no less than 2 individuals per line but 3-4 is better. Use player’s name, offer help.


• Maintaining Possession

Variations Add a stopwatch to time how long your players can go without a dropped pass. Add cones

around the players jogging paths to add agility practice. Make the players avoid obstacles in addition to other players.


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X Drill Weave



Drill Style: Skill, Conditioning Time Needed: 10 Min

Field Location: Full Field Skill Level: Intermediate

Objective To work on change of speed and direction, lateral movement and multiple high speed cuts.

Drill Description Start by setting up cones in a zigzag pattern across the width of the field. Create patterns of

cutting and passing that are fun, and then become competitive. 2 lines of players at the side line, Balls in both lines. Players weave in and out of the cones and pass at the middle cones.


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X Drill Weave, continued

Skills Practiced Ball Movement

High Speed Cuts

Long Passes

Change of Speed and Direction

Variations Instead of wrapping around the cones and crossing at the middle cone, players pass then

change direction at the cones. Also you can set up 2 grids and split the team in half. One half of each team on opposite ends of the field. One ball for each team, teams compete in a shuttle weave, relay. First team to return to their starting position wins. To create a more complex weave and shorten the distance between cones to create tighter cuts and more intense change of direction.


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Shooting on the Run

Drill Specs Drill Theme: Shooting Field Position: Offense

Drill Style: Skill Time Needed: 10 Min


Objective To improve shooting technique and accuracy.

Drill Description One line of players is stationed at the top of the restraining box. The line has plenty of balls

for each player to get 5-10 shots. The players will make a “dummy” dodge towards the goal and then take an overhand shot at the goal while on the run. Players should be shooting overhand to ¾ and rotating their hips so that they end up backpedaling after the shot.

Skills Practiced Shooting

Dodging

Strong and Weak Play

Accuracy


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Variations Vary the type of dodges required of the shooter. Have the shooters switch sides of attack to work on shooting with both hands. Allow all player positions to shoot. The coach can stand near the goal and force shooters to run past him to ensure players are running towards the goal when shooting.


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Over the Top Shooting Drill

Drill Specs Drill Theme: Shooting Field Position: Offense, Midfield

Drill Style: Skill, Warm-Up Time Needed: 10 Min


Objective To improve shooting technique and accuracy.

Drill Description Two lines of players are stationed at the top of the restraining box. Each line has plenty of

balls for each player to get 5-10 shots. The players will make a”dummy” dodge towards the goal and then take an overhand shot at the back goal. Players should be shooting over the first goal, from about 2 yards away, into the back goal. As player technique improves, shots should get lower and lower into the back goal.

Skills Practiced Shooting

Dodging

Strong and Weak Hand Play

Variations Vary the type of dodges required of the shooter. Have shooters switch to their inside or

outside hands. Allow all player positions to shoot.


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Even Numbers

Drill Specs Drill Theme: Even Strength


Drill Style: Game Time Needed: 15 Min

Field Location: Half Field Skill Level: Intermediate

Objective To develop settled offense and defense skills and tactics

Drill Description Create 1v1, 2v2, 3v3, 4v4, 5v5, or 6v6 setups in a half field situation. All defensive players

are out of the restraining box at the goal line extended. The offense players are positioned 15 yards outside of the top of the attack box, diagonally opposite the defense. Coach is in the top center of the box with extra balls. Coach calls out a number from 1-6, and that number of offensive and defensive players enters the box. Roll the ball to the offense to begin play. All the drill to continue until a goal is scored, the defense gains possession, or the ball is cleared outside the penalty box.


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Even Numbers, Continued

Skills Practiced Settled attack and defense

Communication

Ball Movement

Clearing

Variations Set up the drill on the sideline with both defense and offense on the same side of the field.

The defense must now attempt to clear the ball over the midfield when they gain possession. The offense must try and regain possession when they lose the ball.


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7. Fairfield Youth Lacrosse Core Drills

An objective of the Fairfield Youth Lacrosse Curriculum is to develop consistency through the entire program. In an effort to promote that consistency, the FYL Board has identified three “Core” Drills that high school teams perform routinely. We would like all youth coaches at every level to incorporate these regularly into their practice sessions.

Basic Skills Work: 1) “3 Man, 2 Balls” - As highlighted above. The drill emphasizes basic skills on the run and

provides strong conditioning.

Offense 2) “Shooting on the Run” - As highlighted above. The drill emphasizes dodging and shooting on the run. Developing this skill is particularly important for players to bring up to the high school level.

Team Passing 3) “Full Field Passing” - As follows. The drill emphasizes team ball movement and passing on the run. The drill is advanced and will have to be reduced to a half field drill for younger players.

Drill Name Full Field Passing

Skill Type: Individual Offense Passing

Skill: Full field passing/ clearing

Grades: 1-8

Description: Players receive pass, move ball to next line and move to line they passed to.

Variations: Player line locations can be moved around to different locations for multiple looks.

Multiple balls accelerate the drill. Reverse ball location.

Key Coaching Points: Move to ball and carry ball away from pressure. Banana breakouts for goal line players.

Extra balls at lines to keep drill moving


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8. Fairfield Youth Lacrosse Commonly Used Terms

“Here’s your help”- calling for open pass

“Draw and dump”- draw a defender towards you with the ball then pass to the open man (leaving his man to cover you).

“Help right/left”- defensive help adjacent to ball

“Bingo”- crease slide

“Hole”- area in front of crease/goal

“3 Man, 2 Ball”- 3 man line drill with middle player passing back and forth to end payers

“Box area”- square area between head and shoulder

“V-Cut”- cut into your man and pop out to ball

“Pop off”- pop off crease up top

“Roll off”- roll off crease behind

“X dodge”- dodge from behind the change

“X”- attack position behind the cage

“Skip Pass”- skip an adjacent perimeter man

“Follow”- follow pass looking for shot

“Sneak”- sneak from behind to GLE

“GLE”- goal line extended

“Backside”- low pipe position on opposite side of the cage

“Push pull”- proper throwing motion

“Banana Out”- bowed motion out to side on beginning of clear