So, you’ve picked up a lacrosse stick for the first time—welcome to one of the fastest, most exciting sports out there. Whether you’re joining your school team, looking to stay active, or just curious about the game, getting started with lacrosse can be a little overwhelming. But don’t worry. Everyone starts somewhere, and with a few key tips, you’ll be on your way to building confidence and having fun.
Here’s how to get started on the right foot:
1. Get Comfortable Holding the Stick
Before anything else, get used to how the stick feels in your hands. Your dominant hand should be near the top of the shaft (just below the head), while your non-dominant hand should rest closer to the bottom. Practice switching hand positions so you can develop versatility. Holding the stick correctly is the foundation for passing, catching, cradling, and shooting.
2. Learn to Cradle
Cradling is how lacrosse players keep the ball in the pocket while running. Start by gently rocking the stick back and forth with your top hand, using your wrist and forearm. The motion should feel smooth, not forced. Practice cradling while walking, then build up to a jog. It’s the first skill that will make you feel like a real player.
3. Wall Ball is Your Best Friend
Want to improve fast? Find a brick wall or rebounder and practice wall ball daily. Start simple—throw and catch with your dominant hand, then switch. Focus on accuracy and catching the ball cleanly. A good method to envision the ball for catching is to see it as an egg, delicate and handle with care. Allow the ball to fall into your stick behind your head, don't snap at it. Wall ball sharpens your hand-eye coordination, stick skills, and reaction time more than almost anything else.
4. Focus on Fundamentals
Passing, catching, ground balls, and shooting—master these basics before jumping into complex drills or plays. Use soft balls like tennis balls when practicing indoors or in tight spaces, and always prioritize form over speed.
5. Don't Neglect Conditioning
Lacrosse is a fast-paced, endurance-heavy sport. Mix in agility drills, sprints, and bodyweight workouts (like lunges, planks, and burpees) to get your body game-ready. You don’t have to be in elite shape right away, but conditioning will help you keep up—and stand out—on the field.
6. Watch the Game
Spend time watching lacrosse—college games, PLL matchups, or women’s pro league highlights. Pay attention to positioning, movement off-ball, and how players use their sticks. It’s one of the best ways to learn the game’s flow and strategies.
7. Be Patient and Have Fun
Nobody becomes a star overnight. Every great player once struggled to catch a pass or scoop a ground ball. Embrace the learning process, celebrate small wins, and keep showing up. Progress happens fast when you stay consistent.
Become Obsessed: Fall in Love With the Grind
Picking up a lacrosse stick for the first time is the start of an incredible journey. Whether you’re aiming to make a team, improve your fitness, or just try something new, these early days are the most important. Stick with it, practice often, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. The lacrosse community is full of people who started just like you—and they’ll be the first to cheer you on.