Players that take part in the Lightening Development Plan have a solid understanding of the game and are ready to begin learning more advanced technical skills.Proficiency Level SkillsStick skillsGroundballsThrowingCatchingShootingPassing to open player - One MoreFootworkUnderstanding the different positionsGroundballsDeveloping Level SkillsBasic faceoff concept1-on-1 defenseDodgingBasic rules / TerminologyCommunicationWeak-hand skillsExposure Level SkillsBall protectionOff-ball offense - movementFast breaksBasic clearing/ridingWing middie draw responsibilityTactics & Game EmphasisCoaches should still expect the ball to be on the ground for most of a 3rd and 4th-grade game, but that shouldnt deter teachers of the game from getting the players comfortable with shape. While practices should be dominated by groundballs, transition, and unsettled attacks on the net, the game certainly starts to resemble team lacrosse as the players will know it for the rest of their playing careers.At this stage, coaches need to start developing team tactics to augment the individual skills that are being built. This is the time we also start to round out the nuances of the game by introducing clearing, riding, and draw strategies.For offense, we spread the field and we begin the concept of formations and triangle use.For team defense, we still put a heavy premium on 1-on-1 defensive skills emphasizing that its enough to be a challenge for opponents. Talking to one another, listening to the goalie, and making sure that they stick to their assigned player will make for a formidable defensive team.Learn More About WGL Youth Girls Lacrosse Program