A set pick in lacrosse is also known as a stationary pick or simply a pick.
A pick is an offensive tactic used to create space and open up scoring opportunities for the ball carrier or other offensive players.
A pick occurs when an offensive player without the ball positions themselves in the path of a teammate’s defender to obstruct their movement.
The player wants to make it more difficult for the defender to stay with the ball carrier or cover a teammate.
Why And When To Use A Pick
The main goal of setting a pick is to momentarily “pick” the defender off the player they are guarding.
This allows the ball carrier or another offensive player to take advantage of the temporary mismatch or open space created.
Picks can be used to facilitate dodges, create passing lanes, or open up shooting opportunities.
How Picks Are Executed
To execute a set pick effectively, the player setting the pick has several things to do.
The player must establish their position close to the defender they intend to screen. Ideally, the player’s body is between the defender and the ball carrier or the intended target.
Players setting a pick will stand with a wide stance. They must maintain balance while ensuring they are not moving or leaning into the defender. Otherwise, they may commit a moving pick violation.
Players must also communicate with the ball carrier and other offensive players to coordinate the timing and execution of the pick.
What does the ball carrier do?
The ball carrier must recognize the pick being set and time their movement accordingly.
Ball carriers should move as close as possible to the screener to ensure the defender must navigate around the pick, creating separation.
They must be prepared to react to the defender’s decision, either by attacking the open space, passing to an open teammate, or adjusting their movement based on the defender’s actions.
What Is A Moving Pick Violation?
A moving pick violation in lacrosse occurs when an offensive player who is attempting to set a pick for a teammate is not stationary and makes contact with a defender, impeding their movement.
In other words, the player setting the pick is not allowed to move or lean into the defender while trying to create space for their teammate.
According to the rules of lacrosse, the player setting the pick must establish their position and remain stationary while making no intentional contact with the defender.
If the player setting the pick moves or leans into the defender, causing contact or interference, the referee can call a moving pick violation.
What happens when a referee calls an infringement?
When a moving pick violation is called, the possession of the ball is turned over to the opposing team.
The team that was on defense now gains possession, and they can initiate their offensive play from the spot of the violation.
What Is The Difference Between A Pick And A Screen?
The terms “screen” and “pick” are used interchangeably in lacrosse for the same offensive tactic.
Basically, they both refer to the use of a player’s body to obstruct a defender’s movement and create space for a teammate “Pick” is the more prevalent term within the sport.
