Lacrosse is an exciting, fast-paced sport, but classic beginner Lacrosse mistakes can slow progress or even lead to injuries.
Whether you’re just starting out or coaching a new player, understanding these common errors and how to fix them is key to improving quickly.
Read on to learn the 10 classic beginner mistakes in Lacrosse and how to avoid them.
Mistake 1 – Poor Stick Handling
Why It Happens
Many beginners rely heavily on their dominant hand, which limits control and accuracy. Poor stick handling makes passing, catching, and shooting less effective.
How to Fix Poor Lacrosse Stick Handling
Practice with both hands daily. Wall ball drills, catching and throwing against a wall, and quick stick-handling exercises can dramatically improve your skills. For a detailed guide, check out our 3 Essential Drills to Improve Your Lacrosse Stick Handling.
Remember, consistency is more important than intensity.
Mistake 2 – Ignoring Footwork
Why It Happens
Footwork is often underestimated, yet positioning and agility determine how fast and effectively you can react on the field.
How to Fix Poor Lacrosse Footwork
Ladder drills, cone exercises, and short sprints improve speed and coordination. Strong footwork also reduces the risk of injuries.
💥Recommendation : Use an Agility Ladder – perfect for improving quick feet and field movement.
Mistake 3 – Incorrect Shooting Technique
Common Errors
Beginners often rely solely on arm strength, resulting in weak or inaccurate shots.
How to Improve Lacrosse Shooting
Focus on body rotation, proper follow-through, and wrist snap. Use both hands equally for shooting and practice from different angles.
Mistake 4 – Weak Passing Skills
Why It Happens
Passing is a fundamental skill that requires timing, accuracy, and communication. Many beginners underestimate its importance.
How to Fix Lacrosse Passing
Practice short and long passes, aim for targets, and work on catching under pressure. Passing drills with teammates or walls are essential.
Mistake 5 – Poor Defensive Positioning
Why It Happens
New players often stand upright or misjudge angles, leaving gaps in defense.
How to Improve Lacrosse Defensive Positioning
Learn the proper defensive stance, keep your stick active, and anticipate the opponent’s moves. Positioning drills with a coach or partner are highly effective.
Mistake 6 – Neglecting Conditioning
Why It Happens
Lacrosse is physically demanding. Beginners who neglect fitness struggle with endurance and speed.
How to Improve Lacrosse Conditioning
Include sprint intervals, strength training, and core exercises in your routine. Consistency off the field translates to better performance on the field.
💥Recommendation : Use Resistance Bands – ideal for strengthening arms, shoulders, and core without heavy equipment.
Mistake 7 – Overlooking Protective Gear
Why It Happens
Some beginners skip essential gear, thinking it’s unnecessary. This increases the risk of injury.
How to gear up safely for Lacrosse
Always wear a helmet, gloves, shoulder pads, and mouthguard. Quality gear boosts confidence and safety.
Mistake 8 – Poor Game Awareness
Why It Happens
New players often focus on the ball instead of the whole field, missing opportunities and defensive cues.
How to Fix Poor Lacrosse Game Awareness
Practice scanning the field, anticipating plays, and communicating with teammates. Small-sided games improve lacrosse IQ quickly.
Mistake 9 – Playing Without a Practice Plan
Why It Happens
Beginners often practice randomly, which slows improvement.
How to Structure Lacrosse Practice
Structure practice with specific drills for passing, shooting, and defense. Include conditioning and stick-handling exercises for balanced growth.
Mistake 10 – Not Asking for Feedback
Why It Happens
Many players are hesitant to ask coaches or teammates for advice. Feedback is crucial for learning.
How to Use Feedback to Progress in Lacrosse
Ask for tips on technique, positioning, and decision-making. Video analysis or peer review can speed up improvement.
Takeaway
Avoiding these 10 common mistakes will accelerate your lacrosse skills, prevent injuries, and make the game more enjoyable.
Focus on consistent practice, proper technique, and staying aware on the field.
With time and effort, even beginners can play like pros.
Equipment used
- Agility Ladder
Perfect for improving quick feet and field movement.
👉 Get it on Amazon (non-affiliate link) : Agility Ladder
- Resistance Bands
Ideal for strengthening arms, shoulders, and core without heavy equipment.
👉 Get it on Amazon (non-affiliate link) : Resistance Bands
Ready to unlock your full potential ?
