The Open-Set lacrosse offense is a dynamic strategy that relies on spacing, communication, and ball movement to create scoring opportunities. When executed effectively, it can be difficult for the opposing team to defend against and lead to a high-scoring game.

Developing a lacrosse offense that fits your players’ playing style and skill level can be a challenge. However, with the Open-Set offense, you can match your team’s skill level and build a high-caliber offense.

With the growing popularity of the two-man game, the Open-Set offense has become a staple of some of the top collegiate programs in the country. Maryland and Virginia are two prestigious college lacrosse programs that run this simple offense to perfection.

Player Positioning for the Open-Set

Positioning your team into an Open-Set offense is quite literally what it sounds like. All six offensive players set up around the perimeter of the offensive zone in an O shape, hence “open”. Each player is spaced out evenly to allow room for each attacker to dodge, pass, or shoot the lacrosse ball. 

Keys of the Open-Set Offense

There are many moving parts to an Open-Set offense, however coaches must emphasize the key aspects of this formation. The three essential components of the Open-Set include

Ball Movement

When an offense quickly throws the lacrosse ball around, the defense has to constantly move and rotate to where the ball is on the field. This can burn out the energy of defense and lead to confusion and mistakes. This is when the offense can strike. Additionally, moving the ball around quickly ensures that everyone is involved in the play and keeps the defense on their toes.

Communication

Communication is key. Players must talk to one another on the field so everyone knows what formation to set up in. An offense is unable to operate if everyone is not on the same page. If a teammate is too close or too far away, it is important to communicate with them so they know where to go. 

Spacing

When operating in the Open-Set offense, players must give their teammates space. If players are too close together, the defense can easily defend multiple players at once. When spaced out evenly, the defense must move and react to each offensive movement.

How to Operate in the Open-Set

Players in the Open-Set offense pass the ball around to find a defensive matchup they can exploit. Once the offense has found a favorable match-up, they can get creative. As mentioned earlier, offensive players work a two-man game to create an advantage. Using quick ball movement, picks, dodges, and deception, offensive players work to create a scoring opportunity. 

The beauty of the Open-Set offense is that offenses can operate freely without strict plays or sets. Although it is important to have more structured plays in certain situations, the Open-Set offense can help players use their skills effectively. When all players in an offense are working to their strengths, there are bound to be opportunities that come out of it. 

Drills to Practice the Open-Set

1. Passing and Catching: Each player must be able to pass and catch the ball efficiently in the Open-Set. Work on passing and catching drills that enhance the ability and skill of each player. Incorporating movement into passing and catching drills will also allow players to get comfortable throwing and catching on the run. 

2. Dodging: Players must be able to be confident dodgers in the Open-Set. Work on footwork, agility, and speed to improve your team’s athleticism and dodging ability. Some specific lacrosse dodges to work on include roll dodges, split dodges, and face dodges. Also remember to dodge from different areas on the field such as the top of the box, wings, and behind the goal at X. 

3. Shooting: The main goal of any offense is to create scoring opportunities and score goals. Work on drills where players shoot from different angles on the field to improve your team’s shooting ability. Additionally, players must be able to shoot with both hands. Some shooting drills include inside finishing, on-the-run, and step-down shots. 

Implement the Open-Set Offense Into Your Team’s Strategy

The Open-Set lacrosse offense is a highly effective strategy that has proven to be successful in the sport of lacrosse. By utilizing a fluid and adaptable formation, teams can create constant movement and confusion for their opponents, making it difficult for them to defend against. 

This style of offense requires players to possess strong communication skills, quick decision-making abilities, and an understanding of their teammates’ strengths and weaknesses. It has become increasingly popular in modern-day lacrosse due to its versatility and ability to create scoring opportunities.

With the right combination of practice and execution, the Open-Set offense can elevate your team’s performance and lead you to victory on the field. If you want to learn more about offensive lacrosse strategy, contact us today!