Force and Contain
Defense
Legend
- attacker
- defender
- cone lane
- contain routes
How it works
Force an attacker to one side and contain them from getting to the goal in a 1v1 defensive drill.
What you need
- lacrosse stick
- lacrosse ball
- cones
Your focus
Forcing and containing is the primary defensive objective in player-to-player defense. Teaching this concept early prevents players from going for the check too early and giving up easy goals on the weak side.
Set up a lane 6 yards wide toward a cone goal.
Defender positions to force attacker to their weak-hand side.
Attacker drives toward the goal; defender must stay between them and the goal using lateral shuffle steps.
If the attacker reaches the goal cone, it's a point for offense. Run 8 reps each side.
Goal
Success is keeping the attacker from the crease and forcing them wide on at least 4 out of 5 reps, you directed the play, they didn't direct you.
Helpful cues
- Step toward the strong side to force them weak
- Stay a stick-length away, close enough to check, far enough to react
- Don't go for the check until you see them expose the stick
Adjust the challenge
Make it easier
Strip it back
Attacker walks; defender focuses on positioning only.
UpLVL it
Add the next challenge
Attacker can switch directions at any time; defender must react and reestablish force.No account needed
Build a practice plan
Add drills, keep the plan in this browser, then share a link with your staff or parents.This library helps you find the right drill. Inside UpLVL the right drill finds the player.
This library helps you find the right drill. Inside UpLVL the right drill finds the player.After every practice, UpLVL automatically surfaces the drills each player needs to work on most. See it for yourself.