How to Earn a Draw Control in Women’s Lacrosse

Draw control is one of the most important skills in women’s lacrosse. It determines which team gets possession after each goal and at the start of every half, setting the tone for the next phase of play. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player looking to sharpen your technique, understanding how to earn a draw control can make a big difference to your game.

What Is a Draw Control?

The NCAA Women’s Lacrosse Statistics Manual defines a draw control as follows:

“A draw control is awarded to the player who gains possession of the ball following the draw, or to the team if no individual player can be identified as controlling the ball. The draw control is recorded at the moment a clear possession is established, either by catching the ball in the air, picking it up off the ground, or otherwise securing it after the draw.”
(NCAA Women’s Lacrosse Statistics Manual, Section 6.10: Draw Controls)

In simple terms, a draw control is credited when a player or team secures the ball after the draw takes place at the center circle.

Steps to Earning a Draw Control

1. Set Up at the Draw Circle

Two players, one from each team, take position at the center circle. The ball is placed between the heads of their sticks, held parallel to the ground. The referee makes sure both sticks are set correctly before blowing the whistle.

2. React on the Whistle

When the whistle blows, both players use their wrists and forearms to push or pull their stick upward, launching the ball into the air. The goal is to direct the ball to yourself or a teammate.

3. Track and Chase the Ball

As the ball goes up, players around the circle must react quickly. Anticipate where the ball will land and move decisively toward it. Communication with teammates is key—call for the ball or let others know if you have a clear path.

4. Gain Possession

Catching the ball cleanly in the air is ideal, but sometimes you’ll need to scoop it off the ground or bat it to a teammate. According to NCAA guidelines, the draw control is awarded at the moment a clear possession is established, so focus on securing the ball and protecting it from defenders.

Tips for Winning More Draw Controls

• Practice Different Techniques: Work on one-handed, two-handed, quick pop, and power draws to find what works best for you.
• Read Your Opponent: Watch their body language and timing to anticipate their move.
• Communicate: Develop signals and strategies with your circle teammates.
• Train for Quickness: Agility and fast reactions are essential for beating opponents to the ball.
• Use the Right Tools: Training devices like Draw Pro can help you practice under realistic conditions, building muscle memory and confidence.

Why Draw Controls Matter

Winning the draw can have a big impact on the outcome of the game. Teams with higher draw control percentages often have more scoring opportunities and can control the pace of play. According to recent NCAA statistics, top teams like Loyola Maryland and James Madison lead the nation in draw control percentage, which correlates with their overall success on the field.

Final Thoughts

Earning a draw control is about more than just strength—it’s a mix of technique, anticipation, communication, and confidence. Focus on the fundamentals, practice regularly, and pay attention to the little details that make the difference. As the NCAA manual states, possession is everything: “The draw control is recorded at the moment a clear possession is established.”

Reference:
NCAA. (2024). NCAA Women’s Lacrosse Statistics Manual (Section 6.10: Draw Controls). NCAA Publications. https://ncaa.org