4v4 GB to a 5v4 or 5v5
- A line of attack/defense at the 30 - Start with a 4v4 ground ball from the GLE - If attack gets it, they clear to the 30 and one attacker adds to the drill from the attacking line creating at 5v4. - If defense gets it, they clear to the 30 and drop the ball, then one attack and one defense adds to drill creating a 5v5
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Muddle Drill
Drill Description This is a competitive 5v5 drill focused on winning ground balls inside the 8 meter and transitioning quickly to offense or defense. Five attackers and five defenders start inside the 8 meter. The coach moves around the outside of the 12 meter and behind the goal with a ball, and players may not look at the coach. The coach rolls a ground ball into the 8 meter to start play. If the offense gains possession, they immediately attack the cage and try to score. If the defense gains possession, they must clear the ball with control to the 50 yard line. Scoring: -Attack scores a goal = 1 point -Attack forces a turnover on the ride = 2 points -Defense clears successfully to the 50 = 1 point -Defense completes two passes during the clear = 2 points
Crease Scramble 3v2
Three offensive players and two defenders start at the top of the box. On the coach’s whistle, all five players sprint toward the crease and touch it, simulating a transition or fast-break scenario. Immediately after, the coach rolls a ball into play, creating a 3v2 ground ball situation. Offense must gain possession and attack, emphasizing proper spacing, timing, and finishing under pressure. Defenders focus on communication and rotations.
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!
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.
3v2
Work 3v2 situations in the attack zone. 3 offensive players vs 2 defenders. Coach starts play with a ground ball or pass. Play to a goal, save, clear, or whistle. Variation: Flip it — 2 offensive players vs 3 defenders. Defense clears all saves or takeaways. Add passing requirements.
Fast Break Drill from Face-Off
Combine faceoff work with fast-break offense. Two middies come to the faceoff X, each with a ball. One ball is used for the faceoff, the other placed to the side. Winner attacks with the first ball; loser grabs the second and attacks the opposite end. Both push 4v3 fast breaks. Next pair steps in and repeats. Variation: Add a defender at the box area who runs in after the faceoff to create a 4v4 if the break doesn't convert. Add wing players for full faceoff reps.
Double Team Drill
Drill Description Defenders run in a continuous circle around the cage while attackers run in the opposite direction on the outside. On the whistle, the coach rolls a ground ball into space. The closest attacker breaks to pick up the ball while the two closest defenders immediately double. The offense must move the ball quickly to find the open player and create a scoring opportunity. The defense focuses on applying an aggressive double team, forcing a turnover, or recovering quickly to a settled defensive position if the double is broken. Player numbers can be adjusted to 7v7, 6v6, or 5v5 depending on focus and available numbers. Coaching Focus Points: -Urgent ground ball pickup under pressure -Smart spacing and quick ball movement -Communication to identify the open attacker -Proper double team angles and timing -Defensive recovery to a settled formation -Composure and decision-making in chaos
Perimeter Sprints
Set a team conditioning standard and challenge players to beat it. All players start at one corner of the field. On the whistle, run the full perimeter at a comfortable pace. Record the time. Short break, then challenge the team to beat it. Repeat as conditioning time allows. Variation: Have players cradle balls or run through obstacles around the field.