Lacrosse Skills Essentials
•Year 8
•Lacrosse
•Check all stick nets are secure and properly strung before lesson
Alternative: If insufficient sticks, share 1 between 2 and rotate roles regularly
Store in mesh bag for easy distribution and collection
Alternative: Tennis balls for beginners or those with coordination difficulties
Use different colours to mark different areas or teams
Alternative: Markers, spots or flat cones
Pre-sorted into team sets for quick distribution
Alternative: Bands or different coloured pinnies
Ensure area in front of wall is clear of obstacles
Alternative: Can complete all activities without wall if unavailable
Check court lines are visible and clear
Alternative: Use cones to create court boundaries and D areas
Rocking the stick back and forth in a smooth motion to keep the ball secure in the net while moving
Giving way with the stick as the ball arrives to soften the catch and maintain control
Turning your body sideways to the target with shoulders perpendicular to direction of throw
Continuing the throwing motion after release, with stick pointing at the target
The hand positioned higher on the stick (near the net) that controls direction and catching
Moving into a position where the ball carrier has a passing option
A throwing technique where the stick moves upward from low to high, releasing below shoulder height
Having control of the ball within your stick's net
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Verbal communication during games (calling for ball, encouraging teammates); using precise technical vocabulary; providing constructive peer feedback; explaining tactical decisions; articulating understanding in plenary discussions; active listening during partner work
Measuring distances (10m, 15m) with paces and metre markers; counting successful catches in timed activities; calculating success percentages (catches/attempts); estimating angles for rebound throws off walls; tracking scores in competitive games; analysing performance data
Forces in throwing - applying force to ball, Newton's third law (action/reaction); trajectory and gravity affecting ball flight; friction between ball and stick net; levers and biomechanics in throwing action; cardiovascular response to exercise (heart rate changes warm-up to cool-down); muscles used in throwing action
Spatial awareness and positioning on court; understanding directions and pathways; using width and depth of playing area tactically; mapping movement patterns; relative positioning (left/right support)
Teamwork and collaboration skills; resilience and determination when facing challenges; honesty in self and peer assessment; respect for opponents and officials; managing emotions in competitive situations; self-belief and positive self-talk; communication skills
Stand at corner of teaching area providing visibility of all students; during wall activities position perpendicular to wall users; in game applications position between courts for equal monitoring; circulate during group work
Watch for: correct hand positioning (dominant hand high for catching), side-on throwing stance, follow-through pointing at target, cushioning on catches, supporting movement off ball, sporting values demonstration, safety compliance
Step in if: stick-to-stick contact occurs, students showing unsafe technique, equipment is damaged, over-aggressive play in games, students excluded or struggling significantly, signs of fatigue or distress, disputes requiring mediation
Demonstrate all skills before students attempt; use exaggerated movements for visibility; involve skilled students in demonstrations; show common mistakes and corrections; demonstrate with commentary; repeat demonstrations during activities for reinforcement
Minimum 40m x 30m outdoor area or large sports hall; netball court with clear D markings for final game; additional 3m clearance around perimeter
Dry, even surface free from hazards including loose stones, wet patches, holes, or protruding objects; check court line markings are not raised or peeling
Stop activity immediately with whistle and 'FREEZE' command; assess situation (minor/major); apply appropriate first aid for minor injuries; follow school emergency procedures for serious injuries; ensure other students are supervised and calm; complete accident report form; inform parents/guardians as per school policy
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