20 Mistakes High School Lacrosse Players Make

Lacrosse is an incredibly fun and challenging sport that can be enjoyed by players of all ages. There are a number of basic skills required for lacrosse, which all players should learn and practice to improve their game. Here are the 10 basic skills you need to know to play lacrosse:

1. Not Warming Up Properly

A lot of players think that they can just jump into the game without warming up first and they’ll be fine. However, this is a huge mistake that can lead to injuries. It’s important to take the time to warm up your muscles before playing lacrosse to avoid pulling or tearing something.

2. Not Stretching

Stretching is another important part of preventing injuries while playing lacrosse. Be sure to stretch both before and after your game or practice to keep your muscles loose and prevent cramping.

3. Poor Footwork

Good footwork is essential for any lacrosse player, yet so many people neglect this important skill. Practice your footwork often, whether it’s improving your dodging or working on your passing.

4. Incorrect Stick Grip

Your grip on the lacrosse stick is extremely important and can make a big difference in how well you play. There are a few different ways to grip the stick, so experiment to find what feels most comfortable for you. Then practice using that grip until it becomes second nature.

5. Not Knowing the Rules

This one seems like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many people show up to their first game without knowing even the basics of the sport. Be sure to take the time to learn the rules of lacrosse before playing, whether it’s reading about them online or asking a friend who already knows how to play.

6. Poor Communication

Lacrosse is a team sport, which means that communication is key. If you’re not communicating with your teammates, then you’re not going to be able to play your best. Be sure to talk to your teammates before, during, and after the game to ensure that everyone is on the same page.

7. Not Practicing Outside of Games

Practice makes perfect, or at least that’s what they say. If you want to get better at lacrosse, then you need to practice as often as you can. This doesn’t just mean going to your weekly practices but also spending time practicing on your own. Shoot some goals in your backyard or play catch with a friend to work on your skills.

8. Not Staying Hydrated

It’s important to stay hydrated when playing any sport, but it’s especially important when playing lacrosse. The games can be long and strenuous, so you need to make sure that you’re drinking plenty of water before, during, and after the game.

9. Wearing the Wrong lacrosse Equipment

Lacrosse is a contact sport, which means that there is a risk of injury if you’re not wearing the proper equipment. Be sure to invest in a good quality helmet, mouthguard, shoulder pads, and elbow pads to protect yourself while playing.

10. Not Having Fun

Last but not least, remember that lacrosse is a game and it should be fun. If you’re not enjoying yourself, then there’s no point in playing. So, relax and have fun out there on the field!

11. Incorrect Passing Technique

One of the most fundamental skills in lacrosse is passing, and yet so many players don’t know how to do it correctly. Be sure to practice your passing often, using both your strong and weak hands. And, when you’re passing to a teammate, be sure to aim for their stick rather than their body.

12. Not Cradling Properly

Cradling is another important skill for any lacrosse player to master. If you don’t know how to cradle correctly, then the ball is more likely to fall out of your stick when you’re running with it. Practice cradling often, using both hands, and be sure to keep the ball in the sweet spot of your lacrosse stick.

13. Not Dribbling Correctly

Dribbling is yet another fundamental skill that all lacrosse players should know how to do. Be sure to practice dribbling with both hands and keep your head up so that you can see where you’re going. Additionally, be sure to change directions often when dribbling to keep your opponents guessing.

14. Poor Footwork

Footwork is extremely important in lacrosse, yet so many players neglect this important skill. Practice your footwork often, whether it’s improving your dodging or working on your passing.

15. Incorrect Shooting Technique

Shooting is one of the most fun aspects of lacrosse, but it’s also one of the most challenging. Be sure to practice your shooting often, using both your strong and weak hands. And, when you’re shooting, be sure to follow through with your stick.

16. Lack of Teamwork

Lacrosse is a team sport, which means that teamwork is essential. Be sure to work closely with your teammates, both on and off the field. Communication is key in lacrosse, so be sure to talk to your teammates often.

17. Not Knowing the Rules

Lacrosse can be a confusing sport for newcomers, but it’s important to learn the rules before playing. Be sure to read about the rules of lacrosse or watch a game to familiarize yourself with the sport. Additionally, be sure to ask your coach or teammates questions if you’re ever unsure about something.

18. Trying to Do Too Much

One mistake that many lacrosse players make is trying to do too much. It’s important to focus on your own strengths and weaknesses and play to your strengths. Additionally, be sure to trust your teammates and let them do their job.

19. Not Practicing Enough

As with any sport, practice is essential in lacrosse. Be sure to attend all of your team’s practices and workouts and put in the extra work on your own time as well. The more you practice, the better you’ll become at lacrosse.

20. Not Getting Enough Sleep

Finally, be sure to get plenty of rest. Lacrosse can be a demanding sport, both physically and mentally. So, be sure to get enough sleep to stay sharp on the field. Getting enough sleep will help you perform your best and avoid injuries.