Why Field Players Should Play Box Lacrosse

The simple answer is that playing box lacrosse can significantly improve your lacrosse skills, particularly for field players. Box lacrosse offers a unique environment that challenges and enhances the abilities needed for both field lacrosse and mixed sports. This article will delve into the specific benefits of playing box lacrosse for field players.

Stick Protection and Handling Physicality

Box lacrosse is a high-intensity, fast-paced game played in a confined space. This environment forces players to protect their sticks and handle physicality in a way that field lacrosse does not. In box lacrosse, players must protect their sticks while dodging through tight spaces, which translates to better stick protection skills in field lacrosse. Additionally, the physicality in box lacrosse teaches players to deal with physical defenders, which can translate to better handling of physical play in field lacrosse.

Adapting to Tight Spaces and Quick Passing

Unlike field lacrosse, box lacrosse is played in a tighter, more confined space. This smaller space forces players to be quicker and more precise with their passing and shooting. The overhead protection and enclosed space challenge players to make quick, precise shots and passes under pressure. In the context of field lacrosse, this translates to better overall movement and communication on the field.

Improving Shooting and Accuracy

Box lacrosse utilizes a smaller net (4ft by 4ft) and a goalie who wears significantly more protective gear, often weighing as much as 40-50 pounds. Field lacrosse nets are larger (6ft by 6ft) with much lighter and less protective gear worn by goalies. The smaller size and increased protection in box lacrosse force players to hone their shooting and accuracy skills to beat a more formidable defender. Many field players find that their shooting improves drastically as a result of this.

Benefits for Attackmen and Defenders

For attackmen, box lacrosse experience translates to better handling of physical defenders, improved stick work, and the ability to shoot through defenders. Players develop advanced dodging skills and the ability to use stick fakes to avoid defenders and shoot with precision. Defenders, on the other hand, learn to communicate effectively, better slide and defend picks, and play more aggressively with their bodies while using less stick work. This translates to better defensive skills in field lacrosse, as defenders in box lacrosse are typically more robust and tactically astute.

Personal Experiences and Recommendations

As someone who has been playing box lacrosse since the age of four and only recently started women’s field lacrosse, I can attest to the benefits. My box lacrosse experience has greatly improved my skills on the field. If you’re a field player, I highly recommend giving box lacrosse a try. It can boost your skills and provide a competitive edge that translates to success on the field.

Quick Reminders:

Wall Ball Practice: Perform regular wall ball practice with your box lacrosse stick before each game or practice. The pocket of the box lacrosse stick is different from that of a field lacrosse stick, so consistent practice is essential. No Culottes: In box lacrosse, there are no 6-foot poles, so all sticks are the same length, except for goaltenders. Adjust your expectations and stick handling accordingly.