Explanation

1. Pass the ball back and forth from forehand to forehand, raising the ball over the line.  Only raise the ball about 6 inches, as if to lift over a flat stick.
2. Receive the pass on the backhand, pull over to forehand and pass to your teammate's backhand.
3. Receive the pass on the backhand, then make a reverse-stick lifted pass.

Keys for Success

1. Get behind the line of the ball, and watch it all the way onto your stick, and cushion it as you make contact. Don’t jab at the ball.
2. Stay low to make the pass and the reception.

OTC tip

Watch the bounce of the ball. It is easier to receive cleanly when it is fully in the air (at the top of its arc) instead of on the half-volley. This might mean moving forward or back to get into the correct position.

Progression - To advance this drill:

Add a running component: run along the line with your teammate, making raised passes over the line.

Permutations:

Use a stick, a stick bag, or another relatively flat object instead of the line to pass the ball over. If you don’t raise the ball effectively, it will be stopped.

Evaluation:

Note your comfort level as you receive the ball. You should feel and look relaxed and smooth as you make the reception and bring the ball under control.

When you lift the ball, make sure it stays below knee-height.