Lacrosse is a game of creativity. Some of the most successful players have the ability to create. Players are constantly making decisions, reacting, and improvising to do their jobs effectively. Building from a foundation of fundamentals, players can expand their game by experimenting with different variations that one never could of imagined. Below we’ve listed some ways for players and coaches to learn how to play creative:
– Make up rules for drills that require you to work on your weaknesses.
– Use 2 balls when playing in pairs and on the wall.
– Try to squash the fear of failure. If you struggle with something new initially, keep trying!
– Incorporate conditioning into your stick work/shooting drills. You’d be surprised what you can come up with when you’re playing exhausted.
– Use concepts from other sports in your lacrosse training. (ex: Bball for defensive positioning, Handball for off-ball movement, Squash for footwork)
– Play more backyard/pick-up sports and games. Get way from organized sports, coaching, and refereeing. Just play with your friends. Create.
Lyle Thompson is one of the most creative athletes to ever play the game of lacrosse. His upbringing allowed him and his brothers to play freely, make mistakes, have fun, evolve, and rise to stardom. Photocredit: dailyorange.com
How do you get creative when you play or train? Comment below!
