Stickwork

Stickwork: The Foundation of Success in Lacrosse

If there’s one common theme that has stood out in our recent conversations with some of the top minds in lacrosse on the Down The Alley podcast this fall, it’s the importance of stickwork. From college coaches to pro players, every guest has emphasized that stickwork is the backbone of the game—whether you're a beginner learning the fundamentals or an elite player chasing championships. In a sport as fast-paced and dynamic as lacrosse, having great stick skills is non-negotiable.

But why is stickwork so critical, and how can players at all levels improve in this area? Let’s break it down.

1. Stickwork Separates Good Players from Great Players

In lacrosse, talent alone doesn’t guarantee success. What consistently separates good players from great players is their stickwork. Elite players aren’t just faster or stronger—they handle their sticks with precision, confidence, and creativity. The best attackmen can dodge through defenders while cradling with ease. The top midfielders can pass and shoot on the run with pinpoint accuracy. Defenders can clear the ball under pressure, using both hands.

As a result, poor stick skills can limit a player’s potential, no matter how athletic or intelligent they are on the field. It’s the one area where there are no shortcuts: consistent, quality reps are key to developing an elite handle on the stick.

2. Versatility Comes From Stick Mastery

One point echoed by our podcast guests is that today’s game demands versatility, especially at higher levels of play. Coaches want players who can pass, catch, shoot, and dodge with both hands—and this all comes back to stickwork.

For Offensive Players: Having strong stick skills means you’re always a threat, no matter which side of the field you're on or how you're being defended. Being able to dodge and shoot with either hand opens up new angles and makes it harder for defenders to predict your moves.

For Defensive Players: Stickwork is just as important. Strong defensive players don’t just focus on checks—they need the stick skills to intercept passes, scoop up ground balls, and initiate the clear effectively. A defender with solid stickwork can turn a caused turnover into an offensive opportunity in an instant.

3. It’s the Key to Playing Fast and Efficient Lacrosse

Lacrosse is often called the “fastest game on two feet” for a reason, and stickwork is at the heart of that speed. Teams that play fast and efficiently rely on clean passing, quick ball movement, and crisp stick skills. Players who can handle the ball confidently under pressure make faster decisions and keep the game moving at a high pace. Whether it’s a fast-break opportunity or a settled offensive possession, everything happens quicker when the stickwork is sharp.

Poor stickwork, on the other hand, can bog down a team’s offense or transition game. Missed passes, bobbled catches, and sloppy cradling kill momentum and create turnovers. That’s why coaches at all levels—especially those we've interviewed this fall—stress stickwork as the foundation of a fast, successful lacrosse team.

4. Practice Makes Perfect

While every player knows the importance of stickwork, the question is: How can you improve? The answer is simple—practice. And not just any practice—focused, consistent reps every single day. The best stick handlers are the ones who dedicate time to the fundamentals even when it’s not required.

Here are some key ways players can improve their stickwork:

Wall Ball: One of the most effective ways to sharpen your skills is hitting the wall. Whether it's 20 minutes a day or an hour, throwing and catching against a wall builds hand-eye coordination, quickens your hands, and helps with both dominant and non-dominant hand development. Start with basic reps, and then incorporate more advanced drills like quick sticks, one-handed reps, and behind-the-back throws.

Stickwork Drills at Practice: Coaches should incorporate a variety of stickwork drills into every practice. Drills like 3-man weaves, partner passing, and ground ball scoops under pressure can help players of all positions build confidence with the stick in their hands.

Footwork + Stickwork: It’s important to combine footwork with stick skills, especially for dodging and shooting on the run. Players should practice cradling while dodging through cones, or doing footwork ladders followed by quick stick drills to simulate game-like conditions.

Commit to Both Hands: Too many players avoid using their non-dominant hand, but coaches consistently remind us that ambidexterity is crucial at higher levels. Every practice, make it a priority to pass, shoot, and cradle with both hands equally. Over time, this will add new dimensions to your game and make you far less predictable on the field.

5. Coaches Need to Prioritize Stickwork in Every Practice

The fall season is a perfect time to emphasize stickwork, and coaches should make it a priority. Whether working with youth players or high school teams, dedicating significant time to stick skills pays long-term dividends. Our guests have repeatedly emphasized that at every level, from youth development to elite club lacrosse, the players with the best stickwork often have the most success.

For coaches, this means:

• Incorporating stickwork drills into every practice.

• Creating a culture where players are held accountable for their stick skills.

• Encouraging players to hit the wall or do stickwork on their own time.

• Providing individual feedback to players on how they can improve.

Final Thoughts

As this fall’s podcast guests have made clear, stickwork is non-negotiable for success in lacrosse. Whether you're a player looking to elevate your game or a coach seeking to build a strong program, investing in stick skills is essential. Mastering the fundamentals, practicing daily, and building confidence with both hands will set you apart from the competition.

So, as the fall continues, keep the stick in your hands and stay committed to perfecting your craft—because when the spring season comes, the players with the sharpest stickwork will be the ones making the biggest impact on the field.

P-Mac