Real ground balls are contested. Two players going for the same ball. The kid who gets there first, with the right body position, wins. This drill simulates that battle. Hard but essential at this age.
What you need: Sticks, ball, two players, full gear.
Setup: Two players 10 feet from a ball, each on opposite sides. Coach with the ball.
How to run it:
- Coach drops the ball between the two players.
- Both players sprint to the ball.
- First to arrive gets low, scoops, and uses body position to shield from the other.
- Other player can stick-check or body-position to dislodge.
- Whoever comes up with the ball wins. Do 8 reps.
What to watch: Body position. The winner uses the body to shield, not just the stick. Box out, scoop, hold.
If they’re struggling: Slower start. Or shorter distance to the ball.
If they’ve got it: 2v2 battle. Or three balls dropped at once with multiple players competing.