About the Team
At Crawdad Nation, our program (5th-8th Grade) builds on the foundation laid in our youth programs, preparing athletes for the demands of high-level lacrosse while developing leaders who make an impact beyond the field. Under Head Coach Drew Hawken's leadership, this is where technical skills, tactical understanding, and character intersect.
Our Seasons:
Fall Clinics: A great way to try it out. Registration is free and clinics are hosted on two dates - attend one or both! Register here!
Fall Season: Focus is on introducing new players to the sport while growing the skills of all the boys at their various levels. There are no scheduled games during the fall although a scrimmage or tournament may be organized to book end to the Fall Season. Fall practices for 2026 will begin on Tuesday, September 29th and will continue through the first week of November 2026 (two weeknight practices + Saturday morning).
Spring Season: Our spring season starts in mid-January and runs through mid-May. Practices are held initially on Saturday mornings only. Beginning in early February, practices transition to Monday-Thursday.
Games Schedules:
*Varsity games are generally played during the week against other local teams. We do add some weekend games as permitted. Our varsity team try to take a weekend trip each year to play against regional competition. This is a fun, yet casual, opportunity for team building and bonding.
*JV games will consist of a combination of the MidTnLax spring lacrosse league and supplemental local teams. Games for the MidTnLax League will be in Sundays. Additional games will be added during the week throughout the spring.
Equipment Needed: Helmet, gloves, shoulder pads, elbow pads, cleats, stick and protective cup.
Equipment can be purchased locally at Dicks Sporting Goods or Play it Again Sports. Sportstop.com is another great option and allows a 15 day trial period with equipment.
All players are required to have a USA Lacrosse membership that is active through at least May 2027. This can be done at www.usalacrosse.com and will need to be completed prior to registration. The cost is $35.00
In addition to Crawdad registration costs, MidTnLax requires a separate per player registration. This is only applicable to the certain teams (e.g. 12U or JV teams that play in the MidTN lax league) and must be completed prior to the start of the Spring season. A link for this registration will be sent out by coaches prior to the first Spring games. There is a $30 fee for this league
JV/Varsity Head Coach:
Drew Hawken - Nazareth University
Skill Development Focus
5 - 6th Graders
7th-8th Graders
Fundamental Skill Development
- Mastering the Basics: Ensure players have a strong foundation in cradling, passing, catching, and ground ball pickups.
- Stick Handling: Focus on basic stick skills like cradling at different speeds and passing with accuracy.
- Defensive Positioning: Teach proper defensive positioning, including footwork and body positioning.
Offensive Skills
- Offensive Set Plays: Introduce simple offensive sets and plays to create scoring opportunities.
- Shooting: Develop a consistent shooting motion and focus on accuracy over power.
- Dodging: Teach basic dodging techniques like the inside and outside dodge.
- Two-Man Game: Introduce the concept of the two-man game, focusing on passing and cutting.
Defensive Skills
- Defensive Communication: Emphasize the importance of communicating with teammates on defense.
- Checking Techniques: Introduce proper checking techniques, focusing on safety and effectiveness.
- Clearing the Ball: Practice efficient clearing techniques to transition to offense.
Physical Conditioning
- Stamina and Endurance: Develop players' stamina through conditioning drills and practice.
- Strength and Agility: Incorporate strength and agility training to improve overall athleticism.
Mental Game
- Sportsmanship: Promote good sportsmanship and positive attitudes.
- Teamwork: Encourage teamwork and cooperation among players.
- Confidence: Build players' confidence through positive reinforcement and encouragement.
Remember: At this age group, the focus should be on fun and skill development. Keep practices engaging and positive to foster a love for the game.
Advanced Stick Skills
- Mastered Fundamentals: Players should have a strong foundation in cradling, passing, and catching.
- Advanced Stickwork: Focus on behind-the-back cradling, switching hands at speed, and one-handed control.
- Protective Cradling: Develop the ability to cradle through contact and vary cradle speed based on defensive pressure.
Elite Ground Ball Play
- Dominant Ground Ball Skills: Players should excel at boxing out opponents, winning balls in traffic, and quickly transitioning to offense.
- Situational Awareness: Emphasize recognizing opportunities for fast breaks and making smart decisions in chaotic situations.
Dynamic Offensive Play
- Creative Passing: Focus on behind-the-back passes, around-the-defender feeds, and precise, timely passes.
- Efficient Ball Movement: Develop the ability to quickly move the ball and create scoring opportunities.
- High-Pressure Offense: Practice executing plays under pressure and adapting to defensive schemes.
Advanced Dodging
- Complex Dodging Combinations: Combine multiple moves like the split-to-roll, question mark, and face dodge.
- Defensive Awareness: Understand how to use picks, create separation, and exploit defensive weaknesses.
Powerful & Accurate Shooting
- Varied Shooting Techniques: Develop the ability to shoot from different angles, distances, and on the run.
- Shot Selection: Emphasize making smart shot selections and shooting with accuracy and power.
Defensive Mastery
- Advanced Defensive Techniques: Focus on proper footwork, slide angles, and takeaway checks.
- Team Defense: Develop effective communication and coordination with teammates.
- Defensive Strategies: Understand different defensive schemes and how to adapt to offensive strategies.
Game Intelligence & Leadership
- Strategic Thinking: Develop the ability to read the game, make smart decisions, and adapt to changing situations.
- Leadership Skills: Encourage players to take charge, communicate effectively, and motivate their teammates.
- Rules Knowledge: Understand advanced rules and how to use them to gain a competitive advantage.
Remember: All drills should be executed at game speed with defensive pressure to simulate real-game conditions. The goal is to develop well-rounded players who can think critically, execute skills under pressure, and contribute to team success.
Nolensville High School Practice Field
1600 Summerlyn Dr, Nolensville, TN 37135