Everyone knows the 12 meter arc and the 8 meter fan. Everyone knows where the to find the X and the GLE (Goal Line Extended). Knowing only that, I was one of many coaches who had no real way of identifying where we wanted our players outside of the basic “over there.” This is not a very effective way of guiding players on offense or defense.
I must apologize for not accrediting the original coach from whom I received this idea, but it has really helped me both offensively and defensively.
Goalies are taught to verbally track the ball for their teammates. They use something akin to this
This works in general, but it does not provide coaches and players the ability to create offensive and defensive plans and monitor player movements.
NUMBERING
Imagine marking the arc area numerically. This is one example but not the only numbering sequence to be considered.
If we identify the area of a field with a number, we can direct players where we want them to be/go and identify where we need more support.
Goalies will be better able to identify where they see the ball for their defenders. Example: “ball is at 4!”
Attackers can initiate plays by moving players from one zone to another. Example: “Katie, cut to 6.”
Defenders can manage their exposure and institute defensive maneuvers knowing where they are to work. Example: “Cutter at 5”
The SHOOTER line is where the goalie will notify the defenders when someone is rolling out of the behind goal area and have a shot.
With this array coaches can draw up plays dependent on the location of their players. From the bench, they can call out for players to transition to specific parts of the arc. Players can also move teammates around the arc depending on where it benefits the play, both offensively and defensively. Then, coaches can also set up plays from one number toward another (for example).
Still, the key is that it gives the players a better understanding of where they and their opponents are on the field.
Queen City Girls Lacrosse - from the coach's perspective 