After discussing this matter for at least a year within our own house league, we decided to make our own 4'9" nets. The rational was quite simple, the weaker players who didn't have much confidence to begin with couldn't even see the net with the latest deployments in protective goalie gear. So we conducted our own experiment by playing two years with the larger nets. First thing we noticed was that the weaker players took more shots on net and some actually went into the net. These players worked harder to move the ball around because they knew when it came back there was a large probability of scoring on their quick-stick. A few argued that most games would become complete blow-outs. This was not the case. On average the scores only increased by 3-4 goals per game. We noticed that the more experienced players suddenly had more options as well. Sure that sliver of expose net is very appealing but you notice a player on the far crease. Now the mind games truly began! "Is the goalie falling for the pass or shot?". It pushed goalies into a level of "uncomfortableness" which may them move more and pay closer attention to their angles. Most goalies agreed, some quicker than others, that it made them better goalies.
Is it time to play with larger nets in the masters summer tournament series? We would say that it wouldn't hurt to try. We are interested in your thoughts on the matter.
Cheers,
Jim
Aurora Masters Lacrosse
Posted on Jul 25, 2008, 12:49 AM from IP address 76.66.45.87