DodgingIntermediate

Split Dodge Drill

The split dodge switches the ball from one hand to the other in a tight, quick motion, letting an attacker change direction sharply while keeping the stick protected from a trailing defender.

Age RangeAges 11+
Duration10 minutes
Group SizeIndividual or pairs
SportLacrosse

Equipment Needed

  • Sticks
  • Balls
  • Cones

Mark the dodge point

A set of cones makes it easy to mark a consistent split-dodge point so every rep is repeatable.

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Setup

  • Set a cone to represent a defender; players approach with the ball cradled.
  • Leave enough space beyond the cone for the dodge and acceleration.
Split Dodge DrillPhand switchSwitch hands tight to the body, plant, and accelerate away

Instructions

  1. Approach the cone at a controlled speed, cradling normally.
  2. As you reach the cone, quickly switch the stick from one hand to the other in front of the body, changing direction at the same time.
  3. Keep the stick close and protected through the hand switch.
  4. Accelerate away from the cone immediately after completing the dodge.
Coaching Points
  • The hand switch needs to be quick and tight to the body — a wide, slow switch exposes the stick to a check.
  • Footwork and the hand switch happen together, not one after the other.
  • This dodge takes real repetition to feel natural — expect it to look rough before it looks smooth.
  • Practice to both directions so the dodge isn't limited to only one dominant side.

Variation

Add a live, lightly-pursuing defender once the mechanics are solid, or chain the split dodge into a shot on goal.