Home/Lacrosse/Partner Passing Progression
PassingFundamentals

Partner Passing Progression

This progression builds a quick, accurate release on both the catch and the throw, the foundation every other passing and dodging skill in lacrosse is built on.

Age RangeAges 9+
Duration8–10 minutes
Group SizePairs
SportLacrosse

Equipment Needed

  • One ball per pair

Setup

  • Partners face each other 10–15 yards apart, one ball per pair.
  • For younger groups, start closer together and widen the gap as accuracy improves.
Partner Passing ProgressionABpasspassPartners 10–15 yd apart, one ballStationary → on the move → overhand → rapid fire

Instructions

  1. Stationary catch and throw: 15 reps focusing on catching with soft hands and releasing with a quick, accurate pass to the chest.
  2. Catch on the move: partners shuffle side to side while passing, working the catch-to-throw transition without stopping their feet.
  3. Overhand release: 10 reps per side working a quick, high-release pass to simulate throwing over a defender's stick.
  4. Finish with 30 seconds of rapid-fire passing for a conditioning and hand-eye finish.
Coaching Points
  • Step toward the target with the opposite foot on every throw to drive accuracy and power from the legs, not just the arm.
  • Catch the ball with the stick slightly angled back to cushion the impact rather than a rigid, flat pocket.
  • Keep the release quick — cradling extra times before a pass gives defenders time to close the passing lane.
  • Work both strong and off-hand passing evenly; a one-handed player is a liability once a defense pressures the stick.

Variation

Add a passive defender with a stick between the partners to force passes around real pressure, or introduce a second ball for a two-ball rapid exchange once accuracy is solid.

More Lacrosse Drills