5 Lines of players are lined up along GLE (Lines in Order: Offense, Defense, Offense, Goal, Defense, Offense). A cone is placed 5 yards on the outside of the first and last offense lines, a cone is placed at the top of the box in front of the inner offense line (distance can vary on age and speed of drill). When whistle is blown, the outer offense and defense must run around the outside cones and drop into the whole of the field, the inner offense must run around the top cone and receive a ball to play to a goal or dead ball.
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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!
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.
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.
Riding Drill after a shot on Goal
Improve riding after a shot on goal. Defense gets back and picks up clearing players as they set up. Lock defenders onto the attack, and get midfielders back before the clearing team to prevent the fast break. Variation: Strengthen the clear to practice forcing turnovers in live play.
2 D Breakout
2 defenders break out from the goal to the box/alleys. The goalie throws a pass to one defender and then they complete 2 over passes before passing to a third defender/midfielder near the midfield line at the opposite box.
1v1 Retreat Drill
- have a set of cones that they have to stay inside on each side - no sticks - attacker is trying to jab and get a clear lane down the lane - defense is trying to keep the attacker in front of them - start with an approach
Riding 2-1-3 V Ride with Dead Ball off Shot
Improve riding after a dead ball on the end line following a shot. Lock your attack and midfield onto the clearing team's players. Drop 3 attack players into a zone splitting the goalie and 3 defensemen. The attack zone up and attack the first clearing pass, forcing long or contested throws. Variation: Strengthen the clear to practice forcing turnovers in live situations.