3v2 to 2v1
Goalie starts with a ball in the crease and passes to three offensive players (Player 1–3) at half field. Offense attacks a 3v2 against two defenders (Player 4–5). The last offensive player to touch the ball rotates back to defend in a 2v1 vs. the defenders, while the other two rotate out to the D line. Goalie or recovered ground balls start the 2v1. After the 2v1, release three new offensive players to repeat.
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West Genny
Set three offensive players (Player 1–3) vs. two defenders (Player 4–5) on a short field with a net at each end (sideline-to-sideline OR box-to-box OR similar distance). Play 3v2 until a goal or turnover. The last offensive player to touch the ball rotates out; remaining offense switches to defense and runs back into the hole to defend their net. The goalie clears a new ball to 3 new offensive players pushing down in a 3v2. End practice on a high note and keep score for fun!
3v2 Sideways
Set up cones to define each team’s half of the field. Place three offensive players (Player 1–3) vs. two defenders (Player 4–5). On the whistle, offense moves the ball within boundaries, looking for high-percentage shots; defenders communicate, stay tight, and force turnovers. Can start with ground balls, adjust players, or shift boundaries for progression.
Numbers
Players line up with the offense at the top of the field and the defense on the sides. The coach calls out a set of numbers, such as “43,” where the first number is offensive players and the second number is defensive players. That many players sprint in to compete for the ball and play a live possession, e.g., 43 - 4v3, 55 - 5v5, 32 - 3v2. Variations can adjust the number combinations to create even or uneven matchups.
3v2 Out and Back
Set three offensive players (Player 1, 3, 5) and two defensive players (Player 2, 4) on half field. Offense passes upfield, moving quickly through midline. Defense sprints to midline, forms a tight stack in the “hole,” communicates, and contests passes. Offense stays spread, draws defenders, and looks for high-percentage shots. Rotate players through all lines for full engagement.
Rapid Fire Warm Up
Get your goalie a high volume of shots from multiple angles in a short time. Goalie starts on the right post. Set up 5 cones at 10-15 yards from the goal in an arc. On the whistle, the first player at each cone shoots one at a time, moving from right to left. Call out shot locations for shooters. Go through as many rounds as needed. Variation: Move cone positions and have shooters vary their shot types.
Side Ladder Clear
Develop a ladder clear, pushing the ball upfield through quick, connected passes. 2 goalies (or 1 goalie and 1 coach). Three lines on each side behind GLE. On "Clear," the first player breaks to the wing on a banana cut. Second player breaks up and cuts to the sideline near the top of the box. Third player sprints to midfield and cuts for a pass up the sideline. Ball moves goalie → wing → box → midfield. Players return to opposite lines. Variation: Adjust spacing between lines to change passing distances.
Triangle line Drills
Build stick skills through constant-motion passing and ground ball work in a triangle formation. Set up cones in a triangle, 15-20 yards between points. Players pass in one direction and follow their pass to the next cone. Receivers catch on the run and release quickly. Run 1.5 minutes each direction, then switch and rest. All players should be moving constantly. Variation: Spread players out to increase conditioning and pass distance.
Rides/Clears
7v7 (or 4v4 for numbers with 2 defenders, 2 attackers and 2 middies on each team) - One team starts by passing the ball around - On the whistle, they pass to the goalie, replicating a shot on cage - The goalie is now clearing to the team that was just on defense - The team that was on offense is riding the defense - Once the ball is at the other end of the field, settle it, and do it again going the other way (both teams ride and clear)