Refining Crade Technique

[ReLAXation7]

On average, I'm a pretty good ball handler, with a good amount of stick protection. I was asking my coach how I can improve over the offseason, and he said that I need to develop my cradle. It's more like a power cradle most of the time, and I can't really get it to be smooth and fluent, as well as well timed with defensive poke checks. Any tips on how to do this?

[ajmassaro157]

you're probably too tense with the cradle, cradle like 1/2 the speed you do now and just experiment with speeds

just let it come naturally

[Laxattack05]

work on cradling and running at the same time. when your right foot hits the ground, your stick should be down in the resting position. when your left foot hits the ground, your stick should be up in the peak of your cradle. that's probably what he means.

[ReLAXation7]

Okay, thanks a lot guys.

[MaKiMaKi13]

practice some one on ones with a buddy and make sure to simulate game like situations

[Jarzombek]

Get creative and comfortable by practicing stick tricks. Practice inside and outside fakes (small cradle move toward or away from your body), side arm fakes, upside down one-handed cradle with your dominant hand, then non-dominant, moving to underhand behind the back and between the legs.

All these and more will help you gain confidence with the ball. "Cradling" is overrated - it's all about keeping possession no matter how you do it.

Just keep a stick in your hands during the summer and you will be fine. Good luck.