How to run the Lacrosse Give and Go Passing Drill: Hot Potato!

Updated: Nov 10, 2023

Introduction to the Lacrosse Give and Go Drill

The Give and Go Passing Drill is a fundamental drill in lacrosse, aimed at enhancing passing, catching, and player movement skills. This drill simulates a common scenario in a lacrosse game where a player passes the ball and immediately makes a move to get open for the return pass, also known as a "give and go" play.

The Setup

To run this drill, you will need at least three players and a goal (and the best cleats on the market). One player stands near the goal, acting as the stationary passer. The other two players are positioned farther away and work together to perform the "give and go."

Running the Lacrosse Give and Go Passing Drill

The Process

Player 1 passes the ball to the stationary player near the goal.
After passing, Player 1 sprints forward towards the goal.
The stationary player passes the ball back to Player 1.
Player 1 catches the ball and takes a shot on goal.

After Player 1 takes the shot, Player 2 begins the process. Players 1 and 2 alternate their roles as the drill continues.

Variations

To challenge the players and keep the drill engaging, you can introduce variations. For instance, add a defender to the drill, or increase the distance between the players and the goal.

This drill is versatile, catering to players of all skill levels. Beginners can focus on the basic mechanics of passing and catching, while advanced players can incorporate dodge moves and quick direction changes. Here's a list of the essential lacrosse gear you'll need to perform these drills effectively.

Tips and Tricks for the Lacrosse Give and Go Passing Drill

Now that you know the mechanics of the drill, here are some tips and tricks to help you maximize your practice time and elevate your game:

Concentration: The success of the give and go drill is highly dependent on the player's concentration level. Stay focused on the ball from the moment it leaves the passer's stick until it reaches your own.
Timing: The timing of the run after the pass is crucial. Make sure you start your sprint towards the goal immediately after passing the ball to the stationary player.
Accuracy: Both the initial pass and the return pass must be accurate for the drill to be effective. Spend time on enhancing your passing accuracy.
Speed: Incorporate speed into the drill as you get comfortable with the basic mechanics. The faster you can execute the give and go, the more effective it will be during a game.
Variety: Make sure to vary the starting positions of the players. This can mimic game situations where the give and go could come from different areas of the field.

The Lacrosse Give and Go Passing Drill is an excellent drill to improve your passing, catching, and shooting skills, and with these tips, you're now well-prepared to run it effectively. For more drills and lacrosse tips, be sure to check out our Lacrosse Passing Drills Guide. Good luck and happy training!

Mastering the Lacrosse Give and Go Passing Drill

The beauty of the Give and Go Passing Drill lies in its simplicity, but to truly master it, practice and understanding of the fundamentals are key. Here are a few additional points to consider:

Communication: Make sure you are communicating with your teammate when passing the ball. A quick shout or nod can ensure they're ready for the pass.
Follow through: When passing the ball, follow through with your stick in the direction of your target. This will help improve the accuracy of your passes.
Keep moving: Even after the ball has left your stick, keep moving. Standing still makes you an easy target for defenders.
Use both hands: Practice the drill using both hands. This will help improve your overall stick skills and make you a more versatile player.
Consistency: Consistency is key in this drill. The more you practice it, the better you'll get. So don't get discouraged if you don't get it right the first time.

The Lacrosse Give and Go Passing Drill is a versatile drill that can greatly improve your skills on the field. It's a drill that every lacrosse player, from beginners to pros, should incorporate into their training. Keep practicing, stay focused, and you'll see improvement in no time.