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Proper Lacrosse Throw Techniques | Overhand, BTB, Sidearm & More

  • spencer4530
  • Aug 28
  • 2 min read

Lacrosse isn’t just about how hard you throw — it’s about control, deception, and versatility. Mastering different throwing techniques makes you unpredictable on the field and helps you adapt to any situation.


1. Overhand Throw

  • Stick is vertical, release point high.

  • Step with opposite foot to generate power.

  • Follow through straight to your target.

  • Best for: accuracy, passing, and most standard shots.

2. Sidearm Throw

  • Stick comes across the body.

  • Keep your elbow up to avoid dipping too low.

  • Rotate your hips for power.

  • Best for: changing angles, low shots, fast passes.


3. Behind the Back (BTB)

  • Stick travels behind your back on release.

  • Focus on wrist snap, not arm swing.

  • Eyes stay on the target even though stick is hidden.

  • Best for: disguise passes/shots, tight spaces.


4. Twister / Canadian

  • Release with extra wrist torque to put spin on the ball.

  • Snap the wrists across the body on follow-through.

  • Best for: deceptive shots with curve, finishing inside.


5. Twisler / Backhand

  • Stick releases across the front of your body (opposite direction of throw).

  • Keep hands soft to control release.

  • Best for: creative finishes, faking out defenders.


6. Around the World

  • Stick loops fully around your head before releasing.

  • Keep control by maintaining smooth motion.

  • Best for: showmanship, trick shots, fun stick work.


7. One-Handed Throw

  • Top hand only, bottom hand releases.

  • Step and snap quickly — power comes from wrists.

  • Best for: desperation shots, adding variety in stick skills.


8. Fakes

  • Start with the motion of one throw, stop mid-release.

  • Sell it with head and shoulder movement.

  • Immediately switch to a real throw.

  • Best for: freezing goalies/defenders.


9. Quick Stick

  • Catch and release in one motion — no cradle.

  • Keep stick tight to body, wrists ready.

  • Best for: crease finishing, fast ball movement.


10. Catch & Switch

  • Catch with one hand orientation, switch mid-cradle, and release with the other.

  • Keep transitions quick and smooth.

  • Best for: dodges into shooting position.


11. Lever Shot

  • Arms extend out, lever motion with stick angled down.

  • Generate power by pulling bottom hand through.

  • Best for: power shots with downward angle.


The best players aren’t defined by one throw style — they’re versatile. Mastering each technique gives you tools for every game scenario.

 
 
 

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