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Lesson 3 - Passing and Catching Mastery

Lacrosse Fundamentals & Skills

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Year 6

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Lacrosse

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Big Question

How can we consistently deliver accurate passes and make secure catches under pressure in lacrosse?

Learning Objectives

To consistently throw and catch a lacrosse ball with accuracy and control
To demonstrate proper stick positioning and grip adjustments for throwing and catching
To apply passing and catching skills in game situations with tactical awareness

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate reliable throwing and catching techniques in static and dynamic situations
Students will show understanding of proper body positioning and stick handling for receiving passes
Students will apply skills effectively in competitive game scenarios while displaying positive sporting values

Equipment & Resources Required

Lacrosse sticks

1 per student (30)

Check all sticks for damage, ensure nets are secure

Alternative: Tennis rackets for initial catching practice

Lacrosse Balls

1 per student + 10 spares

Ensure balls are regulation weight and not cracked

Alternative: Tennis balls for beginners or safety concerns

Coloured Bibs

15 (3 different colours)

Distribute for team identification in game activities

Alternative: Coloured bands or pinnies

Cones

30 large cones

Use for targets, boundaries, and distance markers

Alternative: Markers or spots

Wall Space

20 metres of wall

Ensure wall is smooth and safe for ball rebound practice

Alternative: Rebound nets or practice partners

Key Vocabulary

Cradling

Moving the stick in a rocking motion to keep the ball secure in the net while running

Soft hands

Allowing the stick to give slightly as the ball enters the net to cushion the catch

Target

Creating a clear aiming point with the stick head for the passer

Dominant hand

The stronger hand placed higher on the stick near the net for control

Cushioning

Absorbing the impact of the ball by allowing the stick to move backwards on contact

Underarm throw

A throwing technique with arm moving upward from below waist level

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic stick handling and cradling techniques
Understanding of lacrosse equipment and safety
Experience with simple throwing and catching activities

Current Skills

Consistent throwing and catching with grip adjustments
Proper body positioning for receiving passes
Cushioning technique when catching

Next Steps

Advanced passing techniques including overarm throws
Catching on the run with defensive pressure
Tactical awareness in small-sided games

Milestone Indicators

Successful catch rate of 8/10 from stationary position

Ability to adjust grip smoothly between throwing and catching

Demonstration of soft hands technique consistently

Key Teaching Points

Dominant hand position changes from high (catching) to varied (throwing) for control
Soft hands technique essential for secure catching and ball retention
Body positioning creates clear target for accurate passing
Short, safe passes maintain possession better than risky long throws
Sporting values are demonstrated through actions, not just words
Progressive skill building from static to dynamic situations ensures safety and success
Peer assessment develops technical vocabulary and observational skills

Common Misconceptions

Harder throws are always better - accuracy and control are more important
Looking at the passer instead of the ball during catches
Rigid, tense catching instead of allowing stick to give with impact
Gripping stick too tightly preventing smooth technique
Focusing only on individual skill rather than team support
Thinking sporting values only matter in formal competitions

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Short activity bursts with regular changes, clear boundaries and expectations, frequent positive feedback

dyspraxia

Larger equipment for easier handling, simplified movement patterns, extra practice time for skill development

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet reflection time available

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls and equipment, verbal descriptions of positioning, buddy system for spatial guidance

hearing impairment

Clear visual demonstrations, written instruction cards, hand signals for key commands

physical disability

Modify throwing distances, allow seated catching positions, use larger/lighter equipment as needed

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Measuring distances for throwing, calculating catch success rates, timing activities and rotations

Science

Understanding forces in throwing and catching, biomechanics of cushioning impacts, physics of ball rebound

Geography

Spatial awareness, positional understanding, mapping movement patterns around playing area

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, resilience when facing challenges, respect and fair play in competition

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between pairs and groups to observe technique, position at corner for whole-class activities

Observation Focus

Watch for correct grip positions, catching technique, spatial awareness, and sporting behaviour

Intervention Points

Step in when technique deteriorates, safety concerns arise, or negative behaviour emerges

Demonstration Notes

Use clear, exaggerated movements for visibility, involve students in demonstrations, repeat key points multiple times

Verbal Cues

•'Soft hands!'
•'Create a target!'
•'Cushion the catch!'
•'Support your teammate!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 40m area, clear of obstacles, with wall space for rebound practice

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from hazards, suitable for running and quick direction changes

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check all lacrosse sticks for damage, loose nets, or sharp edges
•Ensure balls are regulation weight and free from cracks
•Verify cones are stable and visible

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Stick-to-face contact during catching
•Collisions during dynamic movement
•Ball strikes to head or body
•Trips and falls during running activities

Risk Mitigation

•Emphasise proper stick positioning away from face
•Maintain adequate spacing between students and pairs
•Teach progressive skills from static to dynamic
•Clear communication and awareness protocols

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility during partner work
•Monitor high-activity areas during game situations
•Ensure proper equipment handling throughout
•Watch for fatigue affecting safety

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid, ensure other students are safe