Triangle Passing Drill: Backdoor Cuts
This simple variation of the classic Triangle Passing Drill is a great way to get your players' heads up and feet moving. "Backdoor Cuts" are a simple move every player needs to know to get open for a pass. This drill works on moving without the ball, leading passes, and catching and throwing on the run.
Like the basic Triangle Passing Drill, this variation is easy to set up and doesn't require much space on the field. A "Backdoor Cut" (or "Back Cut") is just the opposite of a "V-Cut"- one more easy way to get open to get the ball.
THE DRILL:
Figure 1. Set up 3 cones in a triangle. The cones should be roughly 10 to 20 yards apart from each other. You can shrink the distance if necessary, depending on your players' stick skills.
Put all of your players in a line behind one of the three cones. Be sure to mix offensive and defensive players together. Everybody on your team needs to be able to run, catch, and throw with both hands.
If you have more than 20 players at practice, create multiple sets of cones to ensure your players get the maximum repetitions in your drills. There's no reason your players should come to practice to stand around waiting in line.
PRACTICE TIPS:
- Switch directions halfway through the drill- move the ball clockwise, catching left-handed and throwing left-handed.
- Time Your Drills for your players' age and attention span. Move on to something else once a drill or game becomes unproductive.
- Move towards the ball- "Attack the pass in the air." Move towards the passer to shorten the distance and stay in front of the Defense.
- Stick in the outside hand- Beginning players need to practice both hands equally. Keep the stick protected, away from the defender.
- Challenge your players- add a second ball into the drill to keep things moving quickly and keep your players focused.
VARIATIONS:
- Add a defensive player at each cone. Make the Backdoor cuts and V-Cuts actually work against light coverage.
- Put the cones closer together for Quick Stick passing and even more reps. Try 5 or 10 yards apart.
- Ground balls- Get your players used to picking up ground balls and passing at lightning speed.
- Dodges- Use this same setup to practice the Roll Dodge, Split Dodge, etc. Make your move then move the ball quickly.
- Over-the-shoulder- Teach your players this simple technique for catching on-the-run.
Try it at your next practice. Let us know if you have any great Triangle Passing Drills of your own!
