Cougars Training Information

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Intangibles:

This year we will win or lose based on three key elements: Teamwork, Dedication, and Preparedness.   Most importantly – preparedness.  And being prepared means being in good physical shape for the season.  I don’t want to sound repetitive, but we will only be as good as the shape we are in this year.  Being successful this year will require dedication from each and every player.  Our goals are very attainable.  In order to achieve them, players MUST:

  1. Attend practice regularly.  If you miss a mandatory practice without an excuse, you will miss a quarter of the next game.  All players should do their best to adjust their work schedules now as they get ready for the season.
  2. Treat each other with respect.
  3. Improve our skills and knowledge of the game each and every day.
  4. Listen to the coaching staff.
  5. BE IN EXCELLENT PHYSICAL CONDITION.

Lacrosse Skills:

If you are out on the fields practicing your skills, here’s a list of things each player can and should be working on. 

  • Learn to catch, throw, and shoot with both hands. (Advanced players do all of the above on the move).
  • Learn to play with your stick perpendicular to the ground instead of parallel to the ground. (The better you can perfect this skill the more you will possess the ball).
  • Move the ball. Don’t stand still, pass before you are covered, catch on the run, and zig zag as you move to lessen the opportunities to be checked.
  • Win the ground balls. (The team that dominates on the ground is the team that wins).
  • Move away from the ball. (After you make a pass, don’t watch how pretty it was, move to where you need to be to support your teammate and advance the ball).
  • Move to the ball. (This means move to the ball when it is thrown to close the distance, move when your defender is not looking at you, and move to support the ball carrier).
  • Look at a spot behind the goalie when you shoot. (Good shooters see the spaces that are open, not the spaces filled by the goal tender).
  • A quick accurate release is better than a hard shot.
  • When you defend, you need to have better stick work than the attacker. (Even D-men with their long sticks and goalies must have great stick work).
  • Play D like a boxer boxes. (Stay on your toes, don’t over commit, use many more jabs and pokes than big hits and takeout checks. Stay in control by resetting and moving your feet).
  • You don’t have to steal the ball to be a good defender. Play position and deny the attacker his objectives or at the very least make it harder for him to do his job.