SIXES LACROSSE: BENEFITS OF SMALL SIDED GAMES
Benefits of small sided games
The use of small sided games within a range of sports is becoming more prominent in modern coaching. This is due to greater research showing its range of benefits. From a recreational sporting standpoint, this post aims to detail the benefits for athletic development and enjoyment.
What are small sided games?
Small-sided games are when a coach reduces the number of players and the actual size of the playing field. For example, play a small-sided version of 6 on 6 over a smaller field size, rather than playing 10v10 or 12v12 on a traditional field size.
Some facts about small sided games in lacrosse!
- Greater involvement and touches on the ball enhance player skill sets, providing more opportunities to shoot, pass, dodge, defend, block, scoop ground balls, and more.
- More goals
- Building-block strategy enhances player IQ for the full-field game
- Smaller unified field size enhances stick development and spatial awareness
- “Up and down” quick pace and transitions promote physical conditioning in a short amount of time
- Develops athletic coordination and agility
- Enhances decision-making
- Promotes the growth of the sport by eliminating barriers (e.g., cost, team size, field size)
- A key philosophy in small-sided games is that players can compete and have fun
These benefits are obvious when young players play games that are smaller than traditional lacrosse, but are even more pronounced when the age-appropriate competitions are played. A player usually has 3-5 times as many touches, more 1 on 1 encounters, shots, dodges, and goals as compared to full-field traditional lacrosse games and practices.