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Lesson 2 - Overarm Throwing and Catching

Ball Skills Foundations

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Year 3

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Lacrosse

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45 min

Big Question

How can the '3 P's' help us become more accurate when throwing overarm in lacrosse?

Learning Objectives

Use the 3 P's (Push, Pull, Point) when performing overarm throwing technique
Demonstrate accurate overarm throwing and catching using lacrosse sticks
Work collaboratively as a team to score points in competitive games

Key Outcomes

Students will accurately perform overarm throws using the push/pull technique
Students will catch the ball consistently using proper lacrosse stick positioning
Students will apply throwing and catching skills effectively in team games

Equipment & Resources Required

Lacrosse sticks

1 per student (30)

Check all sticks for damage, ensure appropriate size for Year 3 students

Alternative: Tennis rackets or hockey sticks for basic technique practice

Lacrosse Balls

15 (1 per pair plus spares)

Use softer balls for beginners or students with confidence issues

Alternative: Tennis balls or soft play balls

Cones

10-15 for marking areas and targets

Use bright colours for clear visibility

Alternative: Bean bags or markers

Bibs

15 (for team identification)

Two different colours for team games

Alternative: Coloured bands or team markers

Key Vocabulary

Push/Pull Technique

The coordinated movement where the dominant hand pushes while the non-dominant hand pulls to create power and accuracy

3 P's

Push (dominant hand), Pull (non-dominant hand), Point (stick follows through towards target)

Open Face

The curved part of the lacrosse stick head that catches and holds the ball

Cushioning

Absorbing the force of the ball by moving the stick back towards the shoulder when catching

Intercept

To stop or catch a pass before it reaches its intended target

Skill Progression Pathway

Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going

Prior Learning

Basic ball handling and catching with hands
Understanding of underarm throwing technique
Awareness of teamwork and simple game rules

Current Skills

Overarm throwing using the 3 P's technique
Catching with lacrosse stick using correct grip and positioning
Applying skills in competitive team scenarios

Next Steps

Combining overarm and underarm throws tactically
Advanced catching techniques while moving
Game strategy and positional play

Milestone Indicators

Consistent ball release at correct angle

Smooth push-pull motion with follow-through

Successful catches without fumbling

Key Teaching Points

The 3 P's (Push, Pull, Point) are the foundation of effective overarm throwing
Sideways stance with non-dominant shoulder facing target maximises power and accuracy
Cushioning the catch by moving stick towards shoulder prevents ball from bouncing out
Accuracy is more important than power when learning new throwing techniques
Effective communication and movement create better passing opportunities in games
Both overarm and underarm throws have their place - choose based on distance and situation
Regular practice and repetition are essential for developing muscle memory in lacrosse skills

Common Misconceptions

Misconception: 'Throwing harder will make it more accurate' - Correction: Focus on technique and follow-through for accuracy
Misconception: 'I need to face my target when throwing' - Correction: Sideways stance generates more power and accuracy
Misconception: 'Catching is just about getting the ball in the stick' - Correction: Cushioning is essential for secure ball retention
Misconception: 'The 3 P's only work for overarm throws' - Correction: Push, Pull, Point principles apply to all throwing techniques
Misconception: 'Defenders should chase the ball' - Correction: Reading the play and anticipating passes is more effective

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Break activities into shorter segments, provide regular positive feedback, clear boundaries and expectations, movement breaks as needed

dyspraxia

Use larger equipment, slow down demonstrations, allow extra practice time, break skills into smaller components, provide additional support

autism spectrum

Provide clear structure and routine, visual schedule of activities, quiet space available if needed, consistent language and instructions

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls and equipment, provide verbal descriptions of all demonstrations, buddy system for spatial awareness

hearing impairment

Use clear visual demonstrations and hand signals, written instructions on display, ensure student can see teacher during all instructions

physical disability

Adapt throwing distances, provide seated throwing options, use larger/lighter balls, modify catching positions as needed

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Counting passes and catches, measuring throwing distances, angles of release and trajectory, timing activities in seconds

Science

Forces in throwing (push and pull), physics of ball flight and trajectory, body systems working during exercise

Geography

Directions and spatial awareness, mapping movement patterns around playing area, understanding of boundaries and zones

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, building resilience when learning difficult skills, managing emotions during competitive activities

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central position during demonstrations, circulate between groups during practice, corner position during games for full area visibility

Observation Focus

Watch for correct 3 P's technique, monitor catching cushioning action, observe teamwork and communication

Intervention Points

Step in when technique is unsafe, correct major errors immediately, support struggling students with additional demonstration

Demonstration Notes

Demonstrate: Always show techniques slowly first, exaggerate key positions for visibility, use student volunteers for peer demonstration, repeat demonstrations as needed

Verbal Cues

•'Push, Pull, Point!'
•'Cushion that catch!'
•'Sideways stance!'
•'Behind the ear to start!'
•'Soft hands for catching!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 20m clear area for full lesson activities, additional space for partner work

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from holes, debris, or obstacles that could cause trips or falls

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check all lacrosse sticks for cracks, loose components, or sharp edges
•Ensure balls are in good condition without damage
•Verify cones are stable and have no sharp edges

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball strikes to head or body from wild throws
•Collisions between students during movement activities
•Stick contact injuries during close proximity work
•Trips and falls during game activities

Risk Mitigation

•Establish clear throwing directions and zones
•Maintain adequate spacing between pairs and groups
•Emphasise controlled throwing - accuracy over power
•Enforce no contact rules during defensive activities
•Provide clear boundaries for all activities

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all throwing activities
•Monitor high-activity game areas closely
•Move regularly between groups during partner work
•Watch for students moving into throwing zones

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess injury, appropriate first aid response, contact office if needed