Gerry Bryne welcomes viewers to another installment of Notre Dame Lacrosse University by explaining the ND "Irish Channel" Defensive Drill. This drill without the use of lacrosse balls, aims to teach the defensive confrontational mindset, and understanding how to drive an offensive player off of his dodging line.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FMhBEObe9sE
To start this drill, Gerry explains that Coach wants to create a rectangle about 30 yards long and 5 yards wide or whatever depending on the confines of the space you are working with. Place some cones to create the 4 corners of the rectangle which will be used as the channel, with one cone at the middle end to denote the finish line.
This drill works on teaching V Holds, drop steps, and how to channel an offensive player to his weak hand or the short space. The drill also works on developing the confrontational personality one needs to be a really good defensive player.
Additionally this works on creating the dynamics of a continuous gladiator-like battle. Offensive player starts at the beginning of the rectangle 5 yards from defensive player with the objective to run through to other side of the rectangle through the "channel" of the rectangle itself. Defensive player works to force offensive player to short side and push him out of bounds. Offensive player has to re-enter the drill from where exited.
