5v5
Work 5v5 situations in the half field. 5 offensive players vs 5 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
Feed the Crease
Practice defending crease players against picks, cuts, and feeds. 2 offensive players on the crease vs 2 defenders. Perimeter players move the ball around looking to feed the crease. Defenders constantly adjust, staying between their man and the ball to deny feeds. Communication is key to covering picks and rolls. Variation: Have offense work pick/re-pick, high-low cuts, and pick-and-roll on the crease.
Star Drill GB and Passes
Improve ball movement and stick skills while avoiding contact with other players. 5 lines in a star shape, 30 yards apart diagonally. Start with one ground ball, then progress to multiple balls and passing. Pass to the player two lines away (#1 to #3, #3 to #5, #5 to #2, etc.). Players should be in constant motion with lots of communication — know who's giving you the ball and who you're throwing to before you receive it. 4 balls is the max for simultaneous motion. 2-4 players per line. Variation: Time how long your players can go without a drop.
Free Position 8 Meter Drill
Drill Description This drill simulates free position shooting from the 8 meter by running quick, consecutive reps. Attackers line up on the center hash and the two outside hashes, while defenders line up on the two inside hashes, and the 2 hanging hashes. One attacker goes at a time, taking an 8 meter shot while the 2 defenders on each side step crash to ball. Reps move continuously to keep the pace high and mimic game-like free position situations. Coaching Focus Points: -Explosive first step on the whistle - Keeping your stick between your shoulders -Defensive crashing to where they are going, not where they were.
5 ball inside shooting
working on players stepping down and shooting from all angles