Learn the Four Lacrosse Positions

Lacrosse is a fast-paced sport that requires a unique set of skills to play. Learning the four main lacrosse positions is an important first step in becoming a well-rounded player. If you are interested in playing or coaching lacrosse, it is important to understand the roles and responsibilities of each position on a lacrosse team.

Attackers are the primary scorers for their teams. They need to be able to quickly get into scoring positions, create shots and score goals. Attackers must also be good at passing and picking up ground balls.

Midfielders, also known as “middies”, roam the entire field and are often your best all-around players. They need to be able to play both offense and defense, and must be strong runners with speed and endurance. Midfielders are also the best players at scooping up ground balls and moving the ball from the defensive side to the offensive side of the field.

Defenders are the most physical players on the field. They guard the three attackers from the opposing team and are usually your biggest players. Defenders need to be able to protect the goal and check attackers to prevent them from scoring.

The goalie defends a circular six foot wide by six feet high area called the crease. Only the goalie and defending players are allowed in the crease, and the goalie is not allowed to enter the crease with the ball. The goalie must be able to stop all shots on goal and must have excellent stick work and ball control.

Body checking is a common part of the game and similar to hockey. In order to be legal, a player can only check an opponent from the front or the side and must hit them above the waist and below the shoulders. Hitting someone above the head is illegal and will result in a penalty.

Passing is a vital skill in lacrosse and there are many different types of passes you can make. Overhand passes are a great place to start, as they are the most effective way to pass the ball. You can also make underhand and sidearm passes. In general, you want to keep the ball low and on your dominant hand side when passing.

Shooting is an essential part of the game and there are several different ways to shoot a goal. In general, you want to be able to shoot with power and accuracy. To shoot, lower your dominant hand down to just above the ground and push with the bottom of the stick. You can also learn to cradle, which is the process of curling your wrist toward your body while running with the ball.

If the ball goes out of bounds during a shot, the team that was closest to the spot where the ball went out will receive possession. In addition, if a player crosses over the half line before the ball is shot, there will be an offside penalty.