What is a Ward in Lacrosse?

Wards are offensive or defensive strategies used in lacrosse to protect ball carriers from illegal checks. This can be done by positioning oneself between the ball carrier and the opposing player. It is also known as “body checking” or “shielding”. Wards are legal in both men’s and women’s lacrosse, although the rules vary between levels of play.

As the ball carrier dribbles or passes the ward can be used to create space for him. A different direction might disrupt an opponent’s attack or disrupt their game plan if they are forced into a different direction by them.

Wards can be used both offensively and defensively, depending on the situation and the player’s role on the team. Properly executed wards are a valuable way to protect a ball carrier while they have possession of the ball.

The Essential Guide to Hitting and Using Wards in Lacrosse

1. How to hit a ward in lacrosse

The key to hitting a successful ward in lacrosse is to position yourself between the ball carrier and the opponent. Ensure that your hips are wide and your shoulders are squared to create the greatest amount of space possible between you and the opponent.

The knees should also be bent so that you are low enough to move quickly without falling off balance easily. Stay alert when the opponent approaches, and use your arms to prevent illegal checks on the ball carrier.

Don’t try to block your opponent’s movements completely. Instead, use your body to put a barrier between them and the ball carrier. Maintain awareness of your surroundings so that you can maintain possession of the ball or lose it to the opposing team.

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2. Benefits of using wards

Players on both the offensive and defensive sides can benefit from the use of wards in lacrosse. A ward can help a ball carrier hold on to the ball longer while creating space for passing.

By forcing an opponent into a different direction or making it difficult for them to reach the ball carrier to make a successful check, wards disrupt an opponent’s offensive strategy.

The ball carrier can also be protected from illegal stick checks when properly executed wards are in place. Ball carriers can protect themselves while maintaining possession of the ball with wards.

3. When to use a ward in lacrosse

When a ward should be used in lacrosse, it is essential to know when to do so. An opposing player should generally use wards when pressing or checking the ball carrier. An opponent may also be forced into a different direction by using wards to disrupt his attack.

A ward may also serve as a means of protecting the ball carrier from illegal checks. Assess the situation before attempting a ward and determine whether it is necessary. Ball carriers can be effectively protected by wards while maintaining possession of the ball.

By using wards properly, your team can stay in control of the game when on offense or defense. If you are looking to protect the ball carrier while they maintain possession, wards can be an effective way to do so.

Make sure to remain aware of your surroundings and assess the situation before attempting a ward, as a successful ward can make all the difference in a lacrosse game.

4. Different ways to use a ward in lacrosse

Wards can be used in several different ways in lacrosse. Positioning your body between the ball carrier and the opponent is the most common way to do it. To maximize the distance between you and your opponent, keep your hips wide and your shoulders square. You can also gain more stability when warding off an approaching opponent by bending your knees.

A ward can also be used defensively by using your arms and stick. The ball carrier will be protected from illegal checks while still being able to move and pass. In addition, using your body as a shield can help you avoid being struck by an opponent’s stick.

Lastly, when using wards in lacrosse, establishing a strong stance is imperative. The lower your body is to the ground, the better you will be able to block off any approaching opponents. The ward isn’t intended to block the opponent’s movement completely, but rather to act as a barrier between them and the ball carrier.

5. Expert Tips for Executing Successful Wards

Several tips should be kept in mind when attempting to hit successful wards in lacrosse. It is important that at all times you maintain a physical distance between the ball carrier and the opponent.

The goal is to prevent the opponent from accessing the ball carrier, as well as provide some protection from illegal stick checks. Secondly, try to remain low and keep your hips wide for maximum stability and mobility.

Thirdly, use your arms to protect yourself and the ball carrier if necessary. Finally, stay aware of your surroundings at all times to ensure that you are ready to react quickly if the situation changes. By following these tips, you can become an effective ward in lacrosse and help your team maintain possession of the ball.

Conclusion

Lacrosse wards protect the ball carrier from illegal stick checks and provide space for him or her to move and pass. The key to successful wards is staying alert, keeping your body between you and the opponent, staying low, and using your arms if you need to. By following these tips, you can become an effective ward in lacrosse and help your team maintain possession of the ball.

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