Precision Stickwork & Footwork: Cradling, Dodging & Finishing Techniques

with Clare Hanson
Benedictine College Women's Lacrosse Head Coach;
2026 NAIA National Champions;
2026 NAIA Women's Lacrosse Coach of the Year;
2025 NAIA National Champions;
2025 IWLCA Staff of the Year;
2025 NAIA Women's Lacrosse Coach of the Year;
The 21-0 2025 season is the new NAIA single-season record for wins and consecutive wins;
2022 NAIA National Champions;
Benedictine College Assistant Coach from 2019 to 2021;
Played college lacrosse for Benedictine College;
First-Team All-Conference Midfielder

Cradle, Dodge & Finish: Build the Foundation of an Elite Lacrosse Offense
Success in lacrosse starts with mastering the fundamentals of stick control, footwork, and efficient movement. Three essential components that separate good players from elite scorers.

In this video, 2x NAIA National Championship coach Clare Hanson provides a step-by-step breakdown of cradling, dodging, and finishing, offering progressive drills and expert insights to help players develop elite-level offensive skills.

Cradling for Control & Pressure Readiness
The training begins with foundational cradling techniques focused on proper hand positioning, stick protection, and fluid movement to maintain control under pressure.

Footwork & Stick Coordination
Through cone-based footwork drills, players learn to execute precise directional changes while maintaining stick security, reinforcing coordination between hands and feet to create offensive separation.

The Snap-Step Dodge
Coach Hanson introduces the Snap-Step Dodging Technique, a highly effective footwork method that helps players explode past defenders, change speeds efficiently, and create space. Each drill builds from stationary mechanics to dynamic, game-speed movements.

Finishing with Confidence
The final section focuses on shot execution and scoring efficiency. Learn how to read defensive positioning, adjust shot angles, and fine-tune mechanics. Coach Hanson shares insider tips on hand placement, balance, and shot selection to help athletes finish with poise under pressure.

Build Game-Ready Skills
Whether you're a coach looking to elevate your team's offensive skill set or a player striving to take your game to the next level, this video delivers the essential techniques, drills, and strategies needed to cradle, dodge, and finish with precision.

56 minutes. 2025.