"Exploring the Different Types of Lacrosse Shots"

12/11/22 by Zack Saadioui

If you’re a fan of lacrosse, you know that the right shot can make or break a game. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned veteran, understanding the different types of shots used in lacrosse can help you take your game to the next level. In this blog, we’ll be exploring the various shots used in lacrosse and how to use them to your advantage. Get ready to learn about cradling, passing, shooting, and more!

Overhand Shot

The overhand shot is a powerful shot used in lacrosse that requires the player to shoot the ball over their head. It is the most common shot used by players, as it is the most accurate and can travel the farthest distance. To perform the overhand shot, the player must hold the stick in one hand, rotate their hips and shoulders, and thrust the stick forward while releasing the ball. This shot is most effective when the player is at least five to ten yards away from the goal. With practice, the overhand shot can be used to score from any distance.

Underhand Shot

The Underhand Shot is a great way to practice your accuracy when shooting a lacrosse ball. This shot is used to shoot the ball at a lower speed than the other shots, but it is still just as accurate. It is also great for scoring from a distance, as the ball can be released quickly and accurately, making it difficult for a goalie to save. To perform the Underhand Shot, the shooter must stand with their feet shoulder-width apart and hold the lacrosse stick at a 45 degree angle. The shooter then pulls the stick back and releases the ball from their forehand side. With practice, this shot can be a great asset to any lacrosse player's arsenal.

Quick Stick

The Quick Stick is a popular lacrosse shot used by experienced players. It is a snap shot that is used to quickly take a shot on the cage before the defense can react. To execute a quick stick, the player must use their wrists and forearms to generate power, as well as their hips and legs to generate momentum. The player must also maintain balance and use the head of the stick to guide the ball on its way to the goal. This shot can be used to catch a goalie off-guard or to surprise a defender who may be expecting a more traditional shot. It takes practice to perfect the quick stick, but when done correctly, it can be an effective tool for scoring goals.

Sidearm Shot

The sidearm shot is an important type of lacrosse shot used to surprise the goalkeeper. This shot is made by holding the head of the stick parallel to the ground and pushing the shaft of the stick towards the goal. The key to making a successful sidearm shot is to ensure that the ball is released from the stick at the same angle it was held at when the shot was initiated. This shot is often used for long-distance shots as well as for shots taken from sharp angles. Aiming for the corners of the goal is a great way to use the sidearm shot to increase the chances of scoring.

Rip Shot

The rip shot is a powerful shot in lacrosse that is often used by experienced players. It is characterized by a quick and powerful release of the ball to generate a lot of power and speed. To execute a rip shot, the player needs to pull the stick back slightly and then quickly push forward, using their wrists and arms to generate the power. The rip shot is often used to shoot from a distance and can be quite effective if the player has good accuracy and form. It's important to practice the rip shot a few times before using it in a game situation to make sure the form is correct and the ball is released in the correct direction.

Bounce Shot

The bounce shot is one of the more advanced lacrosse shots that a player can attempt. It involves the player bouncing the ball off of the ground and then shooting it towards the goal. It takes an immense amount of skill and practice to perfect the bounce shot, as it requires the player to have a great degree of control over the ball and an understanding of the angle at which they need to shoot it. The bounce shot is a very effective way of catching a goalie off guard, as it is much faster and more unpredictable than a traditional shot.

Step Down Shot

The Step Down Shot is a powerful and accurate technique used by offensive players in lacrosse. This shot is often used to surprise the goalie and catch them off guard. To execute the Step Down Shot, the player must pivot the body and use the momentum generated from the pivot to add power to the shot. The player should also hold the stick at shoulder level, with the bottom hand close to their body, and the top hand slightly further away to increase accuracy. This shot is one of the trickiest in lacrosse, but when done correctly can be very effective in scoring goals.

On the Run Shot

The on the run shot is a type of shot in lacrosse that is used when the shooter has to move quickly. It is one of the most difficult shots in lacrosse to master and requires the shooter to be able to handle the ball while running and to be accurate with their shot. To execute the on the run shot, the shooter must keep their elbow in the same spot while they move and their eyes on the target. The shooter must also keep their weight on the back foot and their stick in the same position as they move. This shot is especially useful when the shooter is in a tight space and is able to move quickly away from the defender but still have time to get a shot off.

High to Low Shot

The high to low lacrosse shot is an effective way to surprise your opponents and score a goal. This shot is best used when shooting from farther distances, as it takes advantage of the higher arc of the ball. To execute the shot, the player must angle their stick up and then quickly drop the stick down in one swift motion. This will provide the ball with the necessary power and spin to make its way through the air and land in the lower part of the goal. It's important to practice and perfect this shot to ensure the ball lands in the right spot. With practice, the high to low shot can be a great asset to a lacrosse player's offensive arsenal.

Low to High Shot

The low to high shot is a powerful shot used in lacrosse. It involves shooting the ball from low to high, meaning the ball starts off close to the ground and ends up high in the air. This shot can be used to surprise the goalie and provide an added challenge. It is best used when the player has an open look and can aim for the top corner of the goal. Additionally, this shot requires a good amount of power and practice to be successful. Utilizing the correct form and technique is key to mastering the low to high shot.

Conclusion

This article explored the different types of lacrosse shots and highlighted their advantages and disadvantages. All shots are important in the game of lacrosse, and it is up to the player to choose which shot is best for each situation. Whether it is a high-powered shot or a finesse shot, the player should practice each one to become a successful lacrosse player. Overall, it is clear that the different types of lacrosse shots require a great deal of skill and strategy, and each one is important in the game of lacrosse.