4v4
Work 4v4 situations in the attack zone. 4 offensive players vs 4 defenders. Coach starts play with a ground ball or pass. Play until a goal, save, clear, or whistle. Variation: Defense clears all saves or takeaways out of the box. Add passing requirements or other skill constraints.
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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!
6v6
This drill sets up six offensive players vs six defenders in a live, game-speed scenario. The goal is to replicate realistic in-game conditions and build both team offense and team defense cohesiveness. Coaches can stop play to highlight teaching points, or let it run for extended possessions to mimic live gameplay. Optional: Keep score for a fun competition to finish practice.
2v1 Ground Balls
Set three lines 2 yards apart: two teammates on the outside lines, one defender in the middle line. Coach rolls a ball toward the middle. First teammate scoops the ball; second teammate positions between ball and defender, using body and stick to shield. Communicate and work together to win possession. Can vary angles or progress to a “go to goal” scenario.
Scrappin'
Scrappin is a high-energy starter drill that builds toughness, stick skills, and communication in tight spaces. Three offensive players face two defenders inside a cone box (~15 yards from goal). Coach rolls out three balls per rep. Players battle for ground balls, then offense looks to space out in a triangle and move the ball quickly for a finish. Defense works 2v3 with sticks in lanes, disrupting passes, and clearing outside the cones. Points: offense scores on goals, defense scores on clear
1v1 with a Center Slide
Teach dodging players to read slides and find the open man, while practicing inside slides. Offensive and defensive lines at the top and at X, plus a line of long poles off to the side. Top pair goes 1v1. A long pole sets up in the middle of the box. If the coach yells "slide," the middle defender slides on the 1v1. If no call, he stays home. After the top pair finishes, rotate the middle defender and run from X. Variation: Add an offensive player in the middle so the slider must leave a man, creating a dump-off opportunity.
Wing Dodge and Crease Picking
Practice dodges from the wing and crease player movement in relation to ball position. Ball starts at the wing. Crease players position opposite and away from where the ball is coming. Variation: As players get comfortable, have crease pick and re-pick, or pick and roll to increase difficulty.
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.
3v2 Drill
Set three offensive players (Player 1–3) against two defenders (Player 4–5) in the attack zone. Coach starts with a ground ball or pass to offense. Offense works quick passes, sharp cuts, and stick skills to create high-percentage shots. Defenders communicate, slide, and maintain positioning. Play continues until a goal, save, clear, or whistle. Rotate roles to keep all players active.