Quiz the Coach :: How do I Catch a Lacrosse Ball?

The Kidzworld Coach

Quiz the Coach :: How do I Catch a Lacrosse Ball? - Reviewed by Kidzworld on May 20, 2008

( Rating:

)

Kidzworld's got some free sports and fitness advice like how to catch a lacrosse ball.

So ya dig sports but need some help with your game? Don't understand some of the rules of football, basketball or hockey? Got a gripe about P.E. class, skateboarders, cheerleading, coaches, or anything? Why not ?

Hey Coach,
I started playing lacrosse for the first time a month ago. It's a fun game. It's cool. I like how it's different. Problem is, I'm having trouble catching the ball. It feels like the net on the stick is too small and the ball never seems to stick. Help me out please!
TADOne

TADOne,
Trust me I've been there! I remember the first time I played lacrosse, I couldn't catch a ball to save my life. It is one of those things that is definitely harder than it looks. But lots and lots of practice along with good mechanics will have you catching the ball like second nature. Here are some tips to help you catch a lacrosse ball better.

Face the Passer - Unfortunately we don't have eyes in the back of our heads, so you have to face the person passing you the ball. Your body should be squared up directly to the passer. Your feet should also be shoulder width apart. If you are catching the ball right handed, your left foot should be a few inches forward.

Hold Stick Parallel - Hold your stick parallel to your body and little off to the side. Make sure your top hand is at the top of the stick and your other hand near the bottom of the stick. The stick should be a few inches in front of your body with the pocket of the stick tilted slightly forward.

Make Eye Contact - Eye contact lets the passer know you are ready for the ball. When they pass it to you, keep your eye on the ball and follow it all the way to the pocket.

Create a Cushion - Just as the ball is about to get in your pocket, slightly move your hands backwards so you can ease the ball into the stick's pocket. This creates a little bit of a cushion for the ball.

Now that you know the steps, its time to practice them. After awhile you won't have to think about it, catching the ball will be as easy as riding a bike!

Do you need tips or advice on sports, fitness or health? to the Kidzworld Coach. Keep in mind peeps, the Kidzworld Coach isn't a doctor or a professional athlete or anything like that. He's just a dude who digs sports, plays 'em and knows a lot about 'em. You should always talk to your 'rents, a doctor or your school gym teacher before starting a new sport or a new exercise.

Related Stories:

Lacrosse Overview

Quiz the Coach :: I Want to Play Lacrosse

Quiz thew Coach :: I Can't Catch!

More Sports and Fitness Advice