BEGINNER TRANSITION SYSTEM

• A "two way" transition system is a player substitution method that sees players play both offense and defense, in 5 player “lines” (usually with extra subs), before eventually line-changing.  This system has been used for many decades prior to the current trend in Senior/Professional lacrosse of using an Offense-Defense "platooning" style of play.  All "Minor" lacrosse players should be fostered using the "lines" system, until beginning to specialize around ages 15-16.
  

• There are two methods of playing this system and both have to do with line changes, and whether a team has the long-change or short-change in a particular period/quarter. 

• On the "short defensive change" (1st & 3rd period), coaches will usually first have players run out on defense and then run up and play offense, before “changing;" a Standard Breakout still being required by at least 2 players (not shown in diagram). 

• On the "long defensive change" (2nd period - as seen in diagram), teams will usually have players play offense first and then play defense, before line changing; covering against reverse-transition still being required by at least one player.  As the "short offensive change," it is an opportunity for breakaways and set-plays come off of the bench (see Delay & 32).