After spending a couple of hours with Assistant Coach, Ian Moore of Arcadia University, he mentioned one of the most simple, yet effective training tips I’ve ever heard.
We were discussing the common issue of athletes over-cradling. Many highly skilled lacrosse players, both boys and girls, cradle too much.
What’s the negatives of over-cradling?
1. The ball is rocking in and around their stick, creating an opportunity for the ball fall out
2. Player’s aren’t in a position to make an accurate pass or get off a quick shot
3. Makes it a lot harder to develop soft hands, quick sticks, or the ability to catch in traffic
Trying having a catch with your palm open. Don’t close your grip until your ready to throw!
Now, after discussing the plague of over-cradling in lacrosse, Ian said, “I have a cure.” He mentioned that he was down at the US Lacrosse convention a couple years back watching Offensive Coordinator Matt Brown of Denver give a presentation. Coach Brown mentioned a drill he does with his team that he had down as a young Canadian. The drill is this…
Have a catch. When the ball is coming into your stick, keep your top hand open. Don’t close the grip of your top hand until you are prepared to throw. Brilliant! This eliminates the desire to cradle as soon as the ball hits your mesh. Try out this drill on your own or with your players and let us know how it works, if you see improvement, or if you find a way to make the drill better!
