Lacrosse basic rules. Lacrosse Rules: A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding and Playing the Sport

What are the basic rules of lacrosse. How many players are on a lacrosse team. What equipment is needed to play lacrosse. How do you score in lacrosse. What are the main positions in lacrosse. How long does a lacrosse game last. What are the most common penalties in lacrosse.

The Fundamentals of Lacrosse: Players, Field, and Equipment

Lacrosse is a fast-paced team sport with Native American origins, combining elements of basketball, soccer, and hockey. To fully appreciate the game, it’s essential to understand its basic components.

Team Composition and Player Positions

A standard lacrosse team consists of 10 players on the field:

• 1 Goalkeeper
• 3 Defenders
• 3 Midfielders
• 3 Attackers

Each position plays a crucial role in the team’s overall strategy and performance. Goalkeepers defend the net, defenders protect their team’s half of the field, midfielders cover the entire field, and attackers focus on scoring goals.

The Lacrosse Field

The official dimensions of a lacrosse field for older boys and men’s games are:

• Length: 110-120 yards
• Width: 53 1/3 to 60 yards

The field is divided into offensive and defensive zones, with a midfield line separating the two. Understanding these dimensions helps players and spectators grasp the spatial aspects of the game.

Essential Lacrosse Equipment

To play lacrosse safely and effectively, players need specific equipment:

1. Lacrosse stick (crosse): Short sticks measure 40-42 inches, while long sticks range from 52-72 inches. The goalkeeper’s stick can be 40-72 inches long.
2. Helmet: Mandatory for all players to protect against head injuries.
3. Mouthguard: Recommended for dental protection.
4. Shoulder pads: Provide upper body protection during physical contact.
5. Arm pads: Protect the arms from checks and collisions.
6. Gloves: Offer hand protection and improve grip on the stick.
7. Ball: Made of solid rubber, approximately 8 inches in diameter.

Proper equipment ensures player safety and enables optimal performance on the field.

Gameplay and Scoring in Lacrosse

Understanding how lacrosse is played and scored is crucial for both players and spectators to fully engage with the sport.

Objective of the Game

The primary goal in lacrosse is to score more points than the opposing team by shooting the ball into their goal. Players use their sticks to catch, carry, and pass the ball while preventing the opposing team from gaining possession.

Scoring Mechanism

In boys’ and men’s lacrosse, each goal is worth one point. To score, the ball must fully cross the goal line and enter the net. It’s important to note that players cannot enter the “crease” (the area immediately surrounding the goal) before the ball crosses the goal line, or the goal will be disallowed.

Game Duration

The length of a lacrosse game can vary depending on the level of play:

• Youth games: Typically shorter, often around 32 minutes divided into four 8-minute quarters
• High school games: Usually 48 minutes, split into four 12-minute quarters
• College and professional games: 60 minutes, divided into four 15-minute quarters

If the game is tied at the end of regulation time, overtime periods may be played to determine a winner.

Key Rules and Regulations in Lacrosse

To maintain fair play and ensure player safety, lacrosse has several important rules and regulations that all participants must follow.

Player Positioning and Movement

One crucial rule in lacrosse is the offside rule. To avoid an offside penalty, there must be at least four players behind the defensive-area line when the team is not in a man-down situation. This rule ensures that teams maintain a balanced defensive structure throughout the game.

Ball Handling and Possession

In lacrosse, players are not allowed to touch the ball with their hands, with the exception of the goalkeeper. When the ball goes out of bounds, play is immediately stopped. If it goes out due to a shot on goal, possession is awarded to the team of the player closest to the ball when it went out. For any other reason, such as an errant pass, possession goes to the team that didn’t touch the ball last.

Physical Contact and Body Checking

Body checking is a significant aspect of lacrosse, but its application varies by age group. In older boys’ and men’s lacrosse, body checking is allowed under certain conditions. However, for younger players (12U, 10U, and 8U levels), body checking is prohibited to ensure player safety and promote skill development.

Goalie Protection

To protect the goalkeeper, no opposing player is allowed to make contact with the goalie or their stick when the goalie is within the goal crease area. This rule ensures that goalkeepers can perform their duties without undue interference.

Common Penalties and Infractions in Lacrosse

Lacrosse has a variety of penalties to maintain fair play and player safety. Understanding these infractions is crucial for players, coaches, and spectators alike.

Types of Penalties

Some of the most common penalties in lacrosse include:

• Cross-checking: Using the stick to check an opponent with both hands on the stick and extended arms
• Holding: Impeding the movement of an opponent or their stick
• Illegal body check: Body checking an opponent who is not in possession of the ball or within 5 yards of a loose ball
• Illegal screen: Setting a moving or blind pick on an opponent
• Illegal stick: Using a stick that does not conform to the required dimensions or specifications
• Slashing: Swinging the stick at an opponent’s stick or body with excessive force
• Unnecessary roughness: Excessively violent checking or physically attacking an opponent

Penalty Enforcement

When a penalty is called, the offending player is typically sent to the penalty box for a specified amount of time, during which their team plays with one fewer player on the field. The duration of the penalty depends on the severity of the infraction:

• Technical fouls: 30 seconds
• Personal fouls: 1-3 minutes
• Expulsion fouls: Player is removed from the game

Understanding these penalties helps players avoid infractions and contributes to a safer, more enjoyable game for all participants.

Strategies and Tactics in Lacrosse

Success in lacrosse relies heavily on effective team strategies and individual tactics. Players and coaches must understand various approaches to offense and defense to excel in the sport.

Offensive Strategies

Effective offensive play in lacrosse involves:

• Ball movement: Quick, accurate passing to create scoring opportunities
• Off-ball movement: Players without the ball creating space and opportunities
• Dodging: Using speed and agility to beat defenders one-on-one
• Pick and roll: Setting screens to free up teammates for shots
• Fast breaks: Quickly transitioning from defense to offense to catch the opposing team off guard

Defensive Strategies

Strong defensive play is crucial in lacrosse and includes:

• Man-to-man defense: Each defender is responsible for guarding a specific offensive player
• Zone defense: Defenders are responsible for specific areas of the field rather than individual players
• Sliding: Quickly moving to help a teammate who has been beaten by an attacker
• Doubling: Two defenders working together to pressure the ball carrier
• Clearing: Efficiently moving the ball from the defensive end to the offensive end after a turnover

Mastering these strategies and tactics takes practice and experience, but they form the foundation of successful lacrosse play at all levels.

The Evolution of Lacrosse: From Native American Tradition to Modern Sport

Lacrosse has a rich history that spans nearly a millennium, evolving from a Native American tribal practice to a popular modern sport. Understanding this evolution provides valuable context for players and fans alike.

Native American Origins

Lacrosse originated in Native American communities, where it served multiple purposes:

• Training ground for tribal warriors
• Spiritual and cultural significance
• Conflict resolution between tribes
• Physical fitness and skill development

Early versions of the game could involve hundreds or even thousands of players, with matches lasting several days.

European Influence and Codification

French Jesuit missionaries first documented the game in the 17th century, leading to increased interest among European settlers. The sport gained popularity in Canada, where it was first codified in 1867. This codification marked the beginning of lacrosse’s transition from a tribal practice to a structured sport.

Modern Lacrosse

Today’s lacrosse retains many elements of its original form but has evolved significantly:

• Standardized rules and field dimensions
• Protective equipment requirements
• Different variations (field lacrosse, box lacrosse, intercrosse)
• Professional leagues and international competitions

Despite these changes, many players and fans still appreciate the sport’s rich cultural heritage and its connection to Native American traditions.

Lacrosse Around the World: Growing Popularity and International Competitions

While lacrosse has its roots in North America, it has been gaining popularity worldwide in recent decades. This global expansion has led to the development of international competitions and increased recognition of the sport.

Global Reach of Lacrosse

Lacrosse is now played in numerous countries across several continents:

• North America: USA, Canada (birthplace of modern lacrosse)
• Europe: England, Scotland, Ireland, Germany, Netherlands, Czech Republic
• Asia: Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, China
• Oceania: Australia, New Zealand
• Africa: Uganda, Kenya, South Africa

International Competitions

The growing global interest in lacrosse has led to the establishment of several international tournaments:

• World Lacrosse Championships: Held every four years for both men and women
• European Lacrosse Championships: Featuring top European national teams
• Under-19 World Lacrosse Championships: Showcasing young talent from around the world
• World Indoor Lacrosse Championship: Focusing on the box lacrosse variant

These competitions not only promote the sport globally but also provide opportunities for cultural exchange and international cooperation through athletics.

Olympic Aspirations

As lacrosse continues to grow internationally, there is increasing discussion about its potential inclusion in the Olympic Games. World Lacrosse, the sport’s governing body, is working towards meeting the criteria for Olympic recognition, which could further boost the sport’s global profile.

The global expansion of lacrosse demonstrates its universal appeal and the potential for continued growth in the coming years. As more countries adopt the sport, we can expect to see new playing styles, strategies, and innovations that will contribute to the ongoing evolution of lacrosse.

Rules of Lacrosse – Beginner Lacrosse

Lacrosse Rules

​This page provides details for the basic lacrosse rules governing boys & men’s lacrosse. However, please be aware that there can be significant rule differences between ages (i.e. rules for U8 boys lacrosse differs significantly from college men’s lacrosse). See the links & videos below for the latest rules.

Basic Lacrosse Rules

• There are 10 players allowed on the field – 3 attack, 3 middies, 3 defenders and 1 goalie.
• For each goal in boys lacrosse, the scoring team is awarded one point. In boys lacrosse, there is not a 2 point shot (unlike the MLL which has a 2 point scoring arc).
• There can be a maximum of 4 long poles on the field per team.
• A lacrosse ball may not be touched by a player’s hand except by the goalie.
• To avoid an offsides penalty, there must be four players behind the defensive-area line (when not in a man-down situation).
• No opposing player can make contact with the goalie or the goalie’s stick when the goalie is in the goal crease area.
• Play is stopped immediately when the ball goes out of bounds. When a shot on goal goes out of bounds, the possession is awarded to the team of the player closest to location of the ball when it went out. When the ball goes out of bounds, for any other reason other than a shot (i.e. an errant pass), the possession is awarded to the team that did not touch the ball last.
• Body checking is only allowed for older boys. At the 12U, 10U, and 8U levels, a player may not deliver a body check to an opponent.
• Lacrosse penalties vary by age. Please check the rule books below for the penalties by age. Some potential lacrosse penalties include cross checks, holding, illegal body checks, illegal screens, illegal sticks, etc. For additional penalties, please the wiki’s section on Lacrosse Penalties.
• The official length of a lacrosse field for older boys is 110- 120 yards max in length and and 53 1/3 and 60 yards in width.

Additional Rules – For the additional rules (i.e. penalties) and the most recent rule changes, please visit the links below.

Boys 14U Rules for 2020

Boys High School Rules for 2020

Lacrosse Rules: How To Play Lacrosse

Photo credit: psmithy (source)

Lacrosse is a team game in which a ball is passed between teammates using a stick with a mesh or net at one end. It originates in Native American communities where it was used as a training ground for tribal warriors and dates back almost a thousand years. You might remember a friendly game of lacrosse taking place in the film ‘The Last of the Mohicans’ in which Daniel Day Lewis stars, and in its early form there were sometimes thousands of players on either side battling for victory.

Since early versions of the game were witnessed and documented by French Jesuit missionaries it gained popularity and was first codified in Canada in 1867. The modern game is a fast, frenetic contact sport that requires players to wear padding and helmets – a sight at which no doubt the Mohicans would have laughed heartily. Here we will focus on field lacrosse (as opposed to the less common variations of box lacrosse and intercrosse).

Object of the Game

The object of the game is similar to many team sports involving a ball, namely to shoot said ball into the opponent’s goal more times than they do to yours. The lacrosse stick (or “crosse”) can be used to catch, carry and pass the ball with the intention of stopping your opponents gaining possession.

When the opposing side have the ball the defending team can attempt to dispossess them using their sticks (against opponents’ sticks) or bodies.

Players & Equipment

Each team consists of ten players: one goalkeeper, three defenders, three midfielders and three attackers.

The lacrosse sticks are split between “short” and “long” sticks. The former must measure between 40 and 42 inches and the latter between 52 and 72 inches in length, the head of which must be no less than six inches and no more than 10 inches at its widest point. The goalkeeper’s stick may be anything between 40 and 72 inches in length and up to 15 inches in width. No more than four players are permitted to carry a long stick (excluding the goalkeeper).

The ball is made of solid rubber and measures around eight inches in diameter. Hence helmets are required to be worn, while mouthpieces, shoulder pads, arm pads and gloves are recommended.

Scoring

To score a goal a team must propel the ball from their lacrosse stick into the goal such that it fully crosses the goal line. Infringements – such as a player entering the “crease” before the ball has crossed the goal line – will result in the goal being disallowed.

Winning the Game

The winning team is simply the one that has scored the most goals within the timeframe of the game. If scores are level after the game time is up, an additional period of Sudden Victory Overtime may ensue in which the first team to score a goal becomes the overall winner.

Rules of Lacrosse

• Lacrosse is played on a field measuring 110 yards in length by 60 yards in width, with goals at either end measuring six feet by six feet. The goal is surrounded by a circular “crease” with a diameter of 18 feet. A player may not score from within said crease. The pitch is dissected by the midfield line.
• The game duration is split into four quarters, each of 20 minutes. Team time-outs may be called by either side, during which the game time will be paused.
• Each player carries a stick or “crosse”, with up to four carrying a long stick (52-72 inches) and the rest carrying a short stick (40-42 inches).
• Players who make infringements – such as being offside or holding an opponent – are punished by being sent to the penalty box for a period of time, usually 30 seconds or one minute.
• Games are started (and restarted after stoppages for goals and at the start of each quarter) with a face-off. During a face-off a player from each side lays their stick horizontally next to the ball until the official blows their whistle, at which point the players battle for possession of the ball.
• Once a team gains possession of the ball they must ensure the ball is progressed beyond the midfield line within 20 seconds to encourage a fast-flowing game.

Lacrosse’s Basic Rules | SportsEngine

Following these six guidelines will help your child as he or she gets ready to play lacrosse.

Use your stick

Lacrosse players use their stick to pass, catch, cradle, scoop and shoot the ball. You are not allowed to use hands or feet to play the ball or interfere with an opponent.

Out of bounds

Play stops when the ball goes out of bounds. If the ball leaves play on a shot, possession is awarded to the team of the closest in-bounds player, regardless of who took the shot. If the ball leaves play for a reason other than a shot, like a player running out of bounds, the team that did not touch it last is awarded possession.

Checking

There are two types of checks: stick and body. Stick checking is when a defending player uses his or her stick to lift or poke another player’s stick in order to dislodge the ball. Rules on checking vary based on the age of your child, with limited stick checking at 12U and up.

Fouls

Fouls include cross-check, slashing, tripping, illegal body check, illegal crosse (stick), unsportsmanlike conduct and unnecessary roughness. The penalty for a technical foul is loss of possession. For a personal foul, the offending player serves a 1, 2 or 3-minute penalty suspension off the field (much like hockey). The severity of the penalty is based on the severity of the foul and the referee’s discretion.

The Goal-Crease

The goal-crease is a circle surrounding each net that is in place to protect each team’s goaltender. Opposing players are not allowed to make contact with any part of a goaltender within his crease. Offensive players are not allowed to step foot in the crease at any time. Defensive players with or without the ball may pass through the crease but are not allowed to attempt to block a shot from within the crease.

Essential Lacrosse Rules for Fans and Players – LaxWeekly

The Lacrosse Rules You Need to Know

Are you a new fan of lacrosse trying to learn more how the game works? Are you a new player trying to learn the rules of the game? Do you just want to learn more about lacrosse rules? Read on. 

Lacrosse is a fun sport to both watch and play, but sometimes the rules can be confusing, especially if you are not familiar with the game. Here are the basic rules of (boys) lacrosse that will help you become a better fan or player:

Table of Contents

Positions – What does each position do?

Specialty Players – Who are the specialty players in lacrosse?

Face-offs – What is a face-off?

General Rules – Game length, penalties, etc.

Lacrosse Rules – Positions

• Attackmen: Attackmen can be compared to the “forward” position in soccer or hockey. Attackmen line up close to the goal, and their primary job is to score goals and assists. They must stay on the offensive side of the field, in other words, the half of the field that has the goal that the team is trying to score on. Here’s an illustration to show you what I mean
• Midfielders: Midfielders are the “do-it-all” lacrosse players. Unlike attackmen, midfielders can go anywhere on the field, which means that they play both offense and defense. Midfielders can score just like attackmen, but they are also must play defense then the opponent has the ball. 
• Defensemen: Defensemen are the players that play defense against the opposing team’s attackmen. Just like attackmen, defensive players are only allowed to stay on one side of the field; the side that they are defending on. You’ll often find defensemen with longer lacrosse sticks than midfielders and attackmen. Each team is allowed to have 4 players with long sticks on the field at one time.

• Goalies: In lacrosse, there are 2 goalies on the field, one for each team. Much like a goalie in hockey or soccer, goalies in lacrosse try to stop the ball from going in the net. The best goalies have quick hands and great reflexes.

Lacrosse Rules – Specialty Positions

• Face-off man (FOGO): In recent years, this position has risen to popularity. FOGOs (face-off get off) are players whose sole purpose is to win possession of the ball when there is a face-off. Usually once the a player wins the face-off, he leaves the field in exchange for an offensive midfielder.
• Long-stick midfielder (LSM): As I alluded to earlier, each team is allowed 4 players with long sticks on the field at one time. When a team is playing defense, they will often times sub a regular midfielder in exchange for a long-stick midfielder. This gives the defensive team an advantage, since players with longer sticks have an easier time playing defense.

Note: If you’re watching youth lacrosse, you might not see any players at these specialty positions. These positions are geared toward a higher level of play, where coaches think more strategically about their offensive and defensive sets.

Lacrosse Rules – Face-off

Generally speaking, at the very beginning of each game, after halftime, and after every goal, a face-off happens. Face-offs happen when two players line up at the center of the field with the lacrosse ball in between them. Each player tries win possession for their team. You can think of the face-off like a “jump ball” in basketball. Here’s a gif showing you what a face-off is like:

Lacrosse Rules – General Stuff

Quick Notes: There are 10 players for each team on the lacrosse field at any given time. This usually includes 3 attackmen, 3 midfielders, 3 defensemen, and 1 goalie. Sometimes there can be more than 3 of a position on the field at a time, but there will always be 10 players on the field, unless there is a penalty. The team who has the most goals at the end of each game wins.

These are the basic rules of lacrosse. There are many nuances that will be explained in other articles, but knowing these rules will give you a better understanding of the game.

If you would like to learn more about lacrosse rules, here is a video that goes into greater detail about different facets of the game. 

The Rules of Lacrosse | MomsTeam

Boy’s Lacrosse Rules:

Age Definition:
As stated in the Bylaws of the U.S. Lacrosse Youth Council (USLYC) eligibility
for participation in boys U-15 events sanctioned by U.S. Lacrosse and
its Youth Council will be based on the following criteria:

Youth players will be boys age 15 years and under and
must further qualify as follows in order to participate in USLYC sanctioned
youth lacrosse activities:

1. player has not attained 15 years of age as of December 31 in the
   year preceding a USL Youth Council sanctioned event; and

2. the player has not participated in any high-school program as a
   member of a high-school freshmen, junior varsity, or varsity team.

Leagues may be organized by age or grades. Physical maturity should be
considered when grouping players. If your program has enough players, the age/ grade groups
should play separately. The following is an example, with ages determined as of December 31 in
the year proceeding the USL Youth Council sanctioned event:

Senior Division:
Under 15/ 8th grade. May have competitive divisions grouped by ability.

Junior Division:
Under 13/ 6th and 7th grade. May have competitive divisions grouped by ability. Note: Players
12 years old or 6th grade may have difficulty playing with 14 year old or 8th grade boys.

Lightning Division:
Under 11/ 4th and 5th grade. Non-competitive. Ages and grades may play together. Multiple
teams within a program should be balanced.

Bantam Division:
Under 9/ 2nd and 3rd grade. Non-competitive. Ages and grades may play together. Multiple
teams within a program should be balanced.

Rule 1 – Game Personnel

Number of Players-

10 players per side on the field, however games can be played with as few as 7 per side on the
field if coaches agree. All USLYC sponsored events will be played with the regulation 10
players per side.

NCAA Men’s Lacrosse

Rule 1, Section 1 – The Game

Rule 2, Section 1 – Number, Designation of Players

Ten players shall constitute a full team.

Rule 2 – Field & Equipment

Field-

SECTION 1. Play on regulation size field is preferred, however the coaches and officials can
agree to play on any size field available. USLYC sponsored events will be paled on regulation
size fields for all groups.

NCAA Men’s Lacrosse

Rule 1, Section 2 – Playing Field

The lacrosse playing field shall be rectangular,110 yards long and 60 yards wide.

Equipment-

SECTION 2. Equipment will conform to NCAA crosse dimensions and equipment requirements,
including NOCSAE- approved helmets, with the following exceptions:
Arm pads are required at all divisions for each player and are optional for the goalie.

NCAA Men’s Lacrosse

Rule 1, Section 17 – The Ball

Rule 1, Section 18 – Crosse- Dimensions

Rule 1, Section 19 – Crosse Construction

Rule 1, Section 20 – Crosse Prohibitions

Rule 1, Section 21 – Helmet, Face mask and Mouthpiece

Rule 1, Section 22 – Personal Equipment

The length of the crosse may be 37 to 40 inches for offensive players in the Lightning and
Bantam Divisions and defensive players in such divisions may use a stick with a length of
37 to 72 inches.

NCAA Men’s Lacrosse

Rule 1, Section 18 – Crosse – Dimensions

The Crosse shall be an overall fixed length of either 40 to 42 inches
(Short crosse) or 52 to 72 inches (long crosse), except for the goalkeeper’s
crosse, which may be a length of 72 inches or less.

Rib pads are strongly recommended!

NCAA Men’s Lacrosse

Rule 2, Section 22 – Personal Equipment

All players are required to wear protective gloves, arm pads, shoulder pads, shoes, and jerseys.
Responsibilities of the home team

SECTION 3. a. Game balls and adequate number of balls must be maintained at the end lines
behind the goals during regulation play.

b. Ball boys (may be waived with consent of the coaches).

NCAA Men’s Lacrosse

Rule 2, Section 5 – Home Coach’s Responsibility

Rule 2, Section 12 – Timekeeper

Rule 2, Section 13 – Scorer

Home teams are responsible for contrasting jersey colors and will wear pennies if needed.

NCAA Men’s Lacrosse

Rule 1, Section 22 – Personal equipment

R. 20 The home team wears white or light-colored jerseys.

Rule 3 – Time Factors and Scoring

Senior & Junior Division- four quarters, 10 minute stop clock, and sudden
victory 4 minute overtime periods will be utilized.

Lightning and Bantam Divisions- four quarters, 12 minute running clock, and one overtime
running clock period of 15 minutes, no sudden victory.

Overtime- in the event of a tie, two (2) four (4) minute (sudden victory) overtime periods
will be played. If, after two (2) overtime periods the score is tie, additional sudden victory
overtime periods may be played until a winner is determined; provided time permits and coaches
and officials are in agreement.

Timeouts- two (2) timeouts are permitted per half.

NCAA Men’s Lacrosse

Rule 3, Section 2 – Variations in playing time

Rule 3, Section 5 – Sudden-victory overtime

Rule 4, Section 28 – Team timeouts

Rule 4 – Play of the Game

The game is to be played with emphasis on the proper development of stick,
team, and sportsmanship skills.

All divisions will follow NCAA rules with the following exception:

No
10-second count.

NCAA Men’s Lacrosse

Rule 4, Section 14 – Advancing the ball beyond the defensive-area line

Rule 4, Section 15 – Advancing the ball into the attack area

Youth Division: Time serving penalties are enforced and man up situations
are permitted in all divisions except the Bantam Division, where there
are no time-serving penalties; instead the player must be substituted
and the ball awarded to the other team at the point of the infraction.

NCAA Men’s Lacrosse

Rule 7, Sections 1, 2, & 3

Body checking is permitted in Senior & Junior Divisions, however, no take-out checks are
permitted by any player.

Definition-Take-out Checks:
Checks in which the player lowers his head or shoulder with the force and intent to take out
(*put on the ground) the other player.

Players may make contact in an upright position within five yards of the ball. No body
checking of any kind is permitted in the Lightning & Bantam division, which includes no
man/ball, clear the type body pushing. If the ball is not moving the referee will start play
following the alternating position session rule.

NCAA Men’s Lacrosse

Rule 5, Section 4/a-f – Illegal body check NOTE: Spearing

Rule 5, Section 4/a – Body checking within 5 yards of a loose ball

In any game and at any point during a game when there is a four-point lead, the team that is
behind will be given the ball at the midfield line in lieu of a face-off as long as the
four-point lead is maintained, unless waived by the coach of the trailing team.

NCAA Men’s Lacrosse

Rule 4, Section 3 – Facing off

Rule 5 – Personal and Expulsion Fouls

Personal Foul/Slashing- For Lightning and Bantam Divisions.
Any poke check not making contact with the gloved hand while holding the
stick itself will be considered a slash. Also, any one-handed check will
be considered a slash for the Bantam Division.

NCAA Men’s Lacrosse

Rule 5, Section 7 – Slashing

Rule 5, Section 7 – A.R. 16 – Wraparound check

Personal fouls are to be taken seriously. In addition to the NCAA rules,
any player or coach who uses derogatory language (starting with damn)
on the field or bench, whether addressing a player, coach or referee may
receive: first offense, 1 minute non-releasable penalty; a 2 minute non-releasable
penalty for the second offense; and expulsion from the game for the third
offense.

NCAA Men’s Lacrosse

Rule 5, Section 2 – Penalty

Rule 5, Section 10/b – Unsportsmanlike conduct

Players illegally playing down to any division will be expelled for the season and the team
will be eliminated from any playoffs and ineligible for any titles or awards.

NCAA Men’s Lacrosse

Rule 5, Section 11 – Fouling out

Rule 6 – Technical Fouls

Offensive stalling shall be enforced, however, this rule will be waived for Lightning and
Bantam Divisions.

NCAA Men’s Lacrosse

Rule 6, Section 11/a – Offensive stalling

Senior and Junior Division: the winning team is to keep the ball in the box during the last
two minutes of the game. Lightning and Bantam Divisions are excused from this rule.

NCAA Men’s Lacrosse

Rule 3, Section 4 – Final two minutes of regulation play

Rule 6, Section 11/a – (3)-Last two minutes

Rule 7 – Penalty Enforcement

No additional supplement, see Rule 4.

Rule 8 – Rules Changes and Modification

NCAA rules and the supplemental rules will be reviewed annually by USLYC Rules Committee,
which may adopt any of the changes or modifications deemed necessary to ensure the safe play
at all levels.

Any comments or requests for rule changes or modifications by coaches or officials
participating in USLYC Rules Committee must be submitted for consideration to the USLYC Rule
Committee in writing by November 1 of each year. Any changes or modifications that are
approved by the USLYC Rule Committee will be effective the following February. No changes or
modifications will be made prior to November 1 or accepted after February 1.

Men’s Lacrosse Rules:

Men’s lacrosse is a contact game played by ten players: a goalkeeper, three defensemen, three
midfielders and three attackmen. The object of the game is to shoot the ball into the
opponent’s goal. The team scoring the most goals wins.

Each team must keep at least four players, including the goalie, in its defensive half of the
field and three in its offensive half Three players (midfielders) may roam the entire field.

Generally, high school games are 48 minutes long, with 12-minute quarters. Each team is given
a two-minute break between the first and second quarters, and the third and fourth quarters.
Halftime is ten minutes long.

Teams change sides between periods. Each team is permitted two timeouts each half.
The team winning the coin toss chooses the end of the field it wants to defend first.

Men’s lacrosse begins with a face-off. The ball is placed between the sticks of two
squatting players at the center of the field. The official blows the whistle to begin play.
Each face-off player tries to control the ball. The players in the wing areas can release;
the other players must wait until one player has gained possession of the ball or the ball
has crossed the goal line.

Center face-offs are also used after a goal and at the start of each quarter.

Players may run with the ball in the crosse, pass and catch the ball. Only the goalkeeper
may touch the ball with his hands.

A player may gain possession of the ball by dislodging it from an opponent’s crosse with a
stick check, which includes the controlled poking and slapping of the stick and gloved
hands of the player in possession of the ball.

Body checking is permitted if the opponent has the ball. However, all contact must occur from
the front or side, above the waist and below the shoulders. An opponent’s crosse may also
be stick checked if it is within five yards of a loose ball or ball in the air.

If the ball or a player in possession of the ball goes out of bounds, the other team is
awarded possession of the ball. If the ball goes out of bounds after an unsuccessful shot
on goal, the player nearest to the ball when and where it goes out of bounds is awarded
possession.

An attacking player cannot enter the crease around the goal, but may reach in with his
stick to scoop a loose ball.

Men’s Lacrosse Personal
& Technical Fouls:

There are personal fouls and technical fouls in boy’s lacrosse.
The penalty for a personal foul results in a one to three minute suspension from play and
possession to the team that was fouled. Players with five personal fouls are ejected from the
game. The penalty for a technical foul is a thirty-second suspension if a team is in possession
of the ball when the foul is committed, or possession of the ball to the team that was fouled
if there was no possession when the foul was committed.

NOTE: The U.S. Lacrosse Youth Council has developed modified rules for
ages 15 and under play. To get a copy of these rules contact U.S. Lacrosse
at 410.235.6882.

Personal Fouls

Slashing: Occurs when a player’s stick viciously contacts an opponent in any area other than
the stick or gloved hand on the stick.

Tripping: Occurs when a player obstructs his opponent at or below the waist with the crosse,
hands, arms, feet or legs.

Cross Checking: Occurs when a player uses the handle of his crosse between his hands to make
contact with an opponent.

Unsportsman like Conduct: Occurs when any player or coach commits an act which is considered
unsportsman like by an official, including taunting, arguing, or obscene language or gestures.

Unnecessary Roughness: Occurs when a player strikes an opponent with his stick or body using
excessive or violent force.

Illegal Crosse: Occurs when a player uses a crosse that does not conform to required
specifications. A crosse may be found illegal if the pocket is too deep or if any other part
of the crosse was altered to gain an advantage.

Illegal Body Checking: Occurs when any of the following actions takes place:

1. Body checking an opponent who is not in possession of the ball
   or within five yards of a loose ball.

2. Avoidable body check of an opponent after he has passed or shot the ball.

3. Body checking an opponent from the rear or at or below the waist.

4. Body checking an opponent above the shoulders. A body check must be below
   the shoulders and above the waist, and both hands of the player applying
   the body check must remain in contact with his crosse.
   

Illegal Gloves: Occurs when a player uses gloves that do not conform to required
specifications. A glove will be found illegal if the fingers and palms are cut out of the
gloves, or if the glove has been altered in a way that compromises its protective features.

Technical Fouls

Holding: Occurs when a player impedes the movement of an opponent or an opponent’s crosse.

Interference: Occurs when a player interferes in any manner with the free movement of an
opponent, except when that opponent has possession of the ball, the ball is in flight and
within five yards of the player, or both players are within five yards of a loose ball.

Offsides: Occurs when a team does not have at least four players on its defensive side of the
midfield line or at least three players on its offensive side of the midfield line.

Pushing: Occurs when a player thrusts or shoves a player from behind.

Screening: Occurs when an offensive player moves into and makes contact with a defensive
player with the purpose of blocking him from the man he is defending.

Stalling: Occurs when a team intentionally holds the ball, without conducting normal
offensive play, with the intent of running time off the clock.

Warding Off: Occurs when a player in possession of the ball uses his free hand or arm to hold,
push or control the direction of an opponent’s stick check.

Hand Signals

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Guidance – No Checking/Modified Checking

U.S. Lacrosse is attempting to send a consistent message regarding checking to youth players,
whether they are using the regular women’s lacrosse rules or following the Y.E.S. Lacrosse!
Program. Players below the seventh grade level should not be stick checking. It is the hope of
the Rules Committee that mandating no checking will allow the beginning player to work on the
basic fundamentals of the game – passing, catching, footwork, proper positioning, and marking
– before they are introduced to the more advanced skill of stick checking.

Once players have mastered the basic fundamentals, coaches will want to introduce stick
checking. Players on 7th and 8th grade teams will be allowed to use modified checking as an
intermediate step towards full checking. Modified checking is defined as checking the stick if
it is below shoulder level, using a downward motion away from the other player’s body. Use of
modified checking will allow the older youth player to learn proper checking skills, while at
the same time encouraging good cradling and stick handling skills for the attack player.
Umpires and coaches should strictly enforce this rule, never allowing checks near a player’s
head or face.

It should be noted that stick-to-stick contact is not necessarily a violation of the no
checking/modified-checking rule. A defender who is holding her stick in good defensive position
may force the attack player to cradle into her stick causing contact. This is not considered a
stick check, as the attack player initiated the contact, not the defender. A similar situation
would exist when the defender puts her stick up in an attempt to block or intercept a pass and
the attacker makes contact while in the act of passing or catching the ball.

Please note that it will be left to individual school districts, counties, and leagues to
decide what they consider a seventh grade team and an eighth grade team.

Official Rules for Girls Youth Lacrosse

The purpose of the Official Girls Youth rules is to familiarize young
players with the sport of women’s lacrosse by introducing them to the
terms, the field, the playing positions, the concept of teamwork and the
skills required to play the game safely and fairly. These rules were written
by the U.S. Lacrosse Women’s Division and ratified by the U.S. Lacrosse
Youth Council in an effort to standardize youth rules for girls throughout
the United States. Youth leagues may decide on age level play that best
suits their needs. The following are suggested as guidelines: 6-8 year
olds (Under 9), 9-10 year olds (Under 11), 11-12 year olds (Under 13),
13-14 year olds (Under 15).

The girl youth rules are divided by levels (A, B, and C). Beginning teams/players would be
expected to use Level B or C rules, which do not allow checking and do allow certain stick
modifications to make throwing and catching easier. Players would then progress to Level A
rules which allow modified checking and require the use of a regulation crosse and pocket.

Any tournament play sponsored or sanctioned by U.S. Lacrosse, such as
the U.S. Lacrosse Youth Festival, will use the following age and rule
levels: Under 13 – Level B rules; Under 15 – Level A rules. It is recommended
that non-U.S. Lacrosse sponsored tournaments follow an age/rule level
format and announce to participants prior to the tournament which level(s)
will be used at their event to avoid any confusion.

It is strongly recommended that at least one qualified umpire be assigned to Level C games,
and two qualified umpires be assigned to Level A and B games. EQUIPMENT Goals – regulation
lacrosse goal cages; smaller (street hockey type) cages may be used for indoor play and for
Level C playing outdoors.

Ball: may use a regulation ball, or a “soft” ball. It is highly recommended
that new or beginner programs use the soft ball until players have developed
their throwing and catching skills. If a soft ball is used, it should
be approximately the same size as a regulation ball. A regulation ball
may be used for indoor play, however, a “no bounce” ball is recommended.

Sticks: Level C may use a youth stick with mesh or traditional stringing
or regulation women’s crosse and may have a modified pocket. With a modified
pocket, only half the ball may fall below the bottom of the sidewall.
Level B must use a regulation women’s crosse with either a regular or
modified pocket. Level A must use a regulation women’s crosse with regular
pocket.

Protective equipment: mouthguards are mandatory at all levels. Eye guards/goggles
are permitted, as are close fitting gloves, soft headgear; no hard helmets
except the goalie. Goalie must wear helmet, throat protector, chest protector,
goalie gloves. Some type of leg padding for the goalie is strongly recommended.
All protective devices used should be close fitting, padded where necessary,
and not be of excessive weight.

Playing Area

There are no measured boundaries. Official(s) decide on the boundaries. When playing indoors,
play the rebound where possible.

Level A – desirable field length is 100 yds. between goal lines, 10 yds.
behind each goal, and 70 yds. wide. Field should be marked according to
U.S. Lacrosse Women’s Rules including a restraining line. (See Rule 3,
page 9)

Level B – desirable field length is 90 yds. between goal lines, 10 yds.
behind each goal, and 50 yds. wide. Field should be marked according to
U.S. Lacrosse Women’s Rules including a restraining line. (See Rule 3,
page 9).

Level C – desirable field length is 50 yds. Between goal lines, 10 yds. Behind each goal,
and 25 yds. wide. Field markings should include two goal circles (radius 2m) with a goal
line in each, two 8m arcs around each goal circle and a center line.

Start of the Game

The procedure for the start of the game/draw shall be the same as outlined in Rule 10 of the
US Lacrosse Women’s Rules with the following modification: for all levels, a free position
will be taken at the center by the team with fewer goals if a four or more goal differential
exists.

Start/Stop Play

All play is started and stopped with the whistle. All players must stop and stand when the
whistle blows (to stop play). All may move again when the next whistle blows.

Scoring

A goal is scored when the ball passes completely over the goal line and into the goal cage.
Scoring must be by an attacker’s crosse, and not off the body of an attack player. A goal may
be scored off the defender’s body or crosse.

Substitution

Substitution is unlimited and the substitution procedure should be the
same as outlined in Rule 9 of the U.S. Lacrosse Women’s Rules, i.e. substitute
any time during play, after goals, and at halftime.

Duration of Play

Level A – 25-minutes running time per half (maximum)

Level B – 25-minutes running time per half (maximum)

Level C – 20-minutes running time per half (maximum)

Teams may choose to play four quarters, but total playing time should not exceed the maximum
time for each level.

Fouls

Fouls shall be the same as those outlined in Rule 18 of the U.S. Lacrosse
Women’s Rules with the following modifications:

1. No shooting on free positions (Level C).

2. No checking (Level B and C).

3. Modified checking only (see definitions) (Level A).

4. No holding the ball for more than 5 seconds when closely guarded/marked (see definitions)
   and the defense is in position to legally check were checking allowed. (All levels).

Note: If the player with the ball takes the stick to the other side of her body and thus away
from the defender making a legal check impossible, the 5-second count would be over. If the
defender adjusts her position to where a legal check could be made, the count starts again.
If another teammate joins the defender and that second defender is in good position to check,
the count starts again. The purpose of this rule is to encourage good defensive positioning
and to make the offensive player aware of her defender. The attack player must try to keep the
stick away from the defender, and, if she does not she will be forced to pass or she will lose
the ball. Even when the defender may not check, if she is in good defensive position she will
force the attack player to pass. This will give her team a chance for a play on the ball
either by interception, by blocking the attempted pass, or by forcing a bad pass and causing a
ground ball.

Penalties For Fouls

The penalty for fouls is a free position with all players, including the
offender, moving 4m away from the player with the ball. For specifics
on major, minor, and goal circle fouls and carding, see Rule 19 (page
41) in the U.S. Lacrosse Women’s Rules. A 5-second violation is considered
a minor foul with the closest defender to the ball carrier being awarded
the ball. The only modification for these youth rules is in Level C, where
all free positions are indirect (i.e., the player with the ball may never
shoot directly from the free position).

Definition of Terms

Closely Guarded: player with the ball has an opponent within a sticks
length.

Free Position: penalty awarded for a foul. Player who has been fouled
gets the ball and all others must move 4m away.

Indirect Free Position: no shot on goal may be made until the player with
the ball passes the ball to another player.

Modified Checking: checking the stick only if it is below shoulder level.
The check must be in a downward direction and away from the body.

Pass: exchange of the ball through the air from one teammate’s crosse
to another.

Possession: a player has the ball in their crosse.

Position to Check: player has an opportunity to legally check the stick
without fouling (the 5-second count starts when the umpire deems that
the player with the ball could be checked legally if checking were permitted.)

Level A Specifics

1. Eleven field players, one goal keeper.

2. Field size: 100 yds. X 70 yds. is recommended.

3. Regular field markings, including restraining line.

4. Regular women’s crosse, regulation pocket.

5. Modified checking only.

6. 25-minute halves (max.), running time.

7. May shoot from direct free positions.

Level B Specifics

2. Field size: 90 yds. X 50 yds. is recommended.

3. Regular field markings, including restraining line.

4. Regular women’s crosse, modified pocket allowed.

5. No checking.

6. 25-minute halves (max.), running time.

7. May shoot from direct free positions.

Level C Specifics

1. Seven field players, use of a goal keeper is optional.

2. Field size: 50 yds. x 25 yds. is recommended.

3. 8m arc, no 12m fan, no restraining line, center line (no circle).

4. Youth sticks (mesh allowed) or regular women’s crosse, modified pocket.

5. No checking.

6. 20-minute halves (max.), running time.

7. May not shoot from any free position.

These rules were written with the safety of all the players being of utmost importance.
Youth lacrosse should be fun, challenging and safe. To that end, the umpires shall have the
authority to penalize any foul, unsafe play, or unacceptable behavior not covered specifically
in these rules. Play should be as continuous as possible, and any foul which does not gain an
advantage for the offender or her team should result in a “held” whistle whenever possible.

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Women’s lacrosse is a non-contact game played by 12 players: a
goalkeeper, five attackers and six defenders. The object of the game is to shoot the ball into
the opponent’s goal. The team scoring the most goals wins.

Women’s lacrosse begins with a draw, which is taken by the center position. The ball is placed
between two horizontally held crosses (sticks) at the center of the field. At the sound of the
whistle, the ball is flung into the air as the crosses are pulled up and away. A draw is used
to start each half and after each goal, and it takes place at the center of the field.

The collegiate game is 60 minutes long, each half being 30 minutes. The high school girl’s
game is 50 minutes long, each half being 25 minutes. In both collegiate and high school play,
teams are allowed one timeout per half.

There are visual guidelines on the side of the field that are in place to provide a consistent
indicator to the officials of what is considered the playing field. The minimum dimensions for
a field is 120 yards by 70 yards. Additional markings on the field include a restraining line
located 30 yards from each goal line, which creates an area where only a maximum of seven
offensive players and eight defensive players (including the goalkeeper) are allowed; a
12-meter fan, which officials use to position players after fouls; and an arc in front of each
goal, considered the critical scoring area, where defenders must be at least within a
stick’s-length of their attacker.

The boundaries are determined by the natural restrictions of the field. An area of 120 yards
by 70 yards is desirable.

When a whistle blows, all players must stop in place. When a ball is ruled out of play, the
player closest to the ball gets possession when play is resumed. Loss of possession may occur
if a player deliberately runs or throws the ball out of play.

Rough checks, and contact to the body with the crosse or body, are not allowed.

Field players may pass, catch or run with the ball in their crosse. A player may gain
possession of the ball by dislodging it from an opponent’s crosse with a check. A check is a
controlled tap with a crosse on an opponent’s crosse in an attempt to knock the ball free. The
player must be one step in front of her opponent in order to check. No player may reach across
an opponent’s body to check the handle of a crosse when she is even with or behind that
opponent. A player may not protect the ball in her crosse by cradling so close to her body or
face so as to make a legal, safe check impossible for the opponent.

All legal checks must be directed away from a seven-inch sphere or “bubble” around the head of
the player. No player is allowed to touch the ball with her hands except the goalkeeper when
she is within the goal circle. A change of possession may occur if a player gains a distinct
advantage by playing the ball off her body.

Fouls are categorized as major or minor, and the penalty for fouls is a “free position.” For
major fouls, the offending player is placed four meters behind the player taking the free
position. For a minor foul, the offending player is placed four meters off, in the direction
from which she approached her opponent before committing the foul, and play is resumed. When a
minor foul is committed in the critical scoring area, the player with the ball has an indirect
free position, in which case the player must pass first.

A slow whistle occurs when the offense has entered the critical scoring area and the defense
has committed a major foul. A flag is thrown but no whistle is sounded so that the offense has
an opportunity to score a goal. A whistle is blown when a goal is scored or the scoring
opportunity is over. An immediate whistle is blown when a major foul, obstruction or shooting
space occurs, which jeopardizes the safety of a player.

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Women’s Major And Minor
Fouls:

Major Fouls:

Blocking: Occurs when a defender who has moved into the path of an opponent with the ball
without giving that player a chance to stop or change direction initiates contact.

Charging: Occurs when a player charges, barges, shoulders or backs into an opponent, or pushes
with the hand or body.

Dangerous Shot: Occurs when a player propels the ball toward the goal without control, or in
the direction of a field player or the goalkeeper.

Misconduct: Occurs when a player conducts herself in a rough, dangerous or unsportsmanlike
manner, persistently causes infringement of the rules, or deliberately endangers the safety
of opposing players.

Slashing: Occurs when a defender swings her crosse at an opponent’s crosse or body with
deliberate viciousness or recklessness, whether or not the opponent’s crosse or body is
struck.

Three Seconds: A defender may not stand within the eight meter arc, unless she is closely
marking an opponent, for more than three seconds.

Obstruction of Free Space: Occurs when a defender is not closely marking her opponent and is
in the free space to goal of the attack player with the ball. The attack player must have the
opportunity and be looking to shoot.

Minor Fouls:

Goal Circle Fouls: Occurs when any part of an offensive or defensive player’s body or crosse,
except that of the goalkeeper or deputy, enters the goal circle.

Warding Off: Occurs when a player guards a ground ball with her crosse or foot, removes one
hand from the crosse and uses her free arm to ward off an opponent, or checks an opponent’s
empty crosse while she is trying to get possession of the ball.

Empty Cross Check: A player may not check an opponent’s cross unless the ball is in the
opponent’s cross.

Body Ball: A ball that hits a field player’s body to her distinct advantage.

All questions about the U.S. Lacrosse Rules for Girls Lacrosse should
contact US Lacrosse Women’s Division Rules Committee Chair Pat Dillon
[email protected]

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5 Important Rules for Beginner Girls Lacrosse Players

If you’re new to the sport of lacrosse, there are a ton of things you have to learn. While the basics are some of the first things that come to mind – like learning how to catch, pass, and shoot a ball with a lacrosse stick – there are also all the rules and more subtle aspects of the game that need to be understood.

At the end of the day, nothing is more important than being safe while on the field, so here are five rules (courtesy of US Lacrosse) to keep in mind for girls diving into the sport of lacrosse as a beginner.

Three-Second Rule

When a lax player with the ball is guarded closely within the restraining area, girl’s lacrosse encourages ball movement. As you might imagine, the three-second rule gives offensive players three seconds to do one of two things: pass the ball or change her cradle, which is the manner in which she’s holding the ball.

If the offensive player isn’t able to adhere to this rule, the referee will award the defensive team with a free position.

Avoid the Goalie Circle

Similar to ice hockey, the goalie circle is off limits for offensive players. If the shooter or someone else on offense steps into or on the goal circle and interferes with the goalie, that particular goal won’t be counted.

For players on defense, though, they’re allowed to reach inside the goalie circle with their stick in order to block or redirect a shot. For those lax players who haven’t reached ninth grade just yet, offensive players aren’t allowed to follow through on a shot that takes their stick into the circle.

Draw Control Motion

If you’re a beginner lacrosse player, chances are you have no idea what this phrase even means. That’s OK! That’s also why we’re here. In this particular situation, players from opposing teams are required to move the ball with their lacrosse sticks by using an up-and-away motion. It is not allowed to go in an outward or downward motion. If that happens, the team whose player didn’t violate the rules will be awarded with a free position.

Offensive Charging

For any beginner lacrosse players who also play basketball, this rule is going to sound awfully familiar! If an offensive player has the ball in their position, they’re not permitted to push into a defensive player that has already established their position. This is considered a major foul and typically occurs when a player is heading toward the goal, which will take place within the 12-meter fan.

Pick or Screen

This is another rule that feels similar or those who play basketball. Like in basketball, the player setting a screen won’t have the ball. Players are allowed to set a pick or screen on the field, but they must set themselves within the line of their opponent’s vision, so they have an opportunity to change their direction.

Lacrosse Rules | Camas Lacrosse

THE OBJECT

The
object of lacrosse is to score the most points. Points are scored when a player
kicks, nudges, bats with the stick, or throws with their stick the very
hard tennis sized rubber ball into the opponents net. Players cannot use
their hands to throw the ball into the net.

BOYS
LACROSSE RULES

LENGTH
OF PLAY

Games
are divided into four timed quarters. The length of the quarter depends on the
age group of the game being played.

• Youth
  quarters are typically 8 minutes long.
• High
  School quarters are 12 minutes.
• College,
  Pro, and International games have 15 minute quarters.

At the
end of each quarter teams must switch ends.

When
time runs out at the end of the fourth quarter the team with the most points
wins. Ties are decided by sudden death playoffs.

FIELD
LAYOUT

The basic layout of a lacrosse field utilizing NCAA rules is 110 yards long by 60 yards wide. As compared to a football field which is 120 yards including the end zones by 53 1/3 yards wide. Lacrosse rules have been modified for most high school and youth organizations, so that a standard american football field can be utilized. Goal nets are 6′ x 6′ and reside within a 9′ circle called the crease. The net is positioned 15 yards from the end line giving about 13.5 yards between the back of the crease and the end line.

Click here to: see a basic diagram of the playing field.

LACROSSE
POSITIONS

Lacrosse is played with 10 players.

• 3 Attackmen
• 3 Midfielders
• 3 Defenders
• 1 Goalie

Click here to: see a diagram of the positions on the field.

BASIC PLAY

Play begins with a face off in the center Face-off square or circle. The lacrosse face off is similar to a hockey face off. Two opponents face each other and try to win possession of the ball. The lacrosse face off is different because the two players basically start on their hands and feet with their sticks laying along the center line, and the ball between the heads of the sticks. At the officials signal each player can employ a number of different lacrosse face off skills and tactics to win possession of the ball, but there is no substitute for being quick or powerful. Most often the ball will be knocked or passed to a player other than the two fighting for the ball in the face off. Once a player is able to pick the ball up with their stick possession occurs. The object is to get close enough to the opponents net to throw the ball into the net scoring a goal. A goal counts as one point. In Major League (professional) Lacrosse there is a two point line where goals shot from behind that line score two points, but that is the only place the two point rule is in effect.

Offensive
players maneuver down the field toward the goal by running with or passing the
ball to a team mate. Players can run the entire length of the field as long as
they are not offside’s by not leaving enough players in the defensive
end.Offensive players cannot enter the crease area that surrounds the goal. The
crease is a circle that surrounds the goal and it is where the goalie works. 
Defensive players can enter the crease area. If an offensive player enters the
crease, it is a crease violation and position goes to the opponent. Offensive
layers cannot go into their own crease either unless they gain possession while
in the crease they can take the ball out.

TRANSITION
TIMING

If the
goalie makes a save and gains possession of the ball he must pass or take the
ball out of the crease within 4 seconds or the ball will be awarded back to the
opponent.

As the
ball is transitioned from the defensive end toward the offensive end the
offensive team has 20 seconds to cross midfield. Once they cross midfield they
have 10 seconds to move into the attackarea. These time restrictions help
greatly to keep teams from going into a shell. They must move the ball or
possession is lost.

UNIQUE RULES

One of the real different rules in lacrosse is that when a player takes a shot and the ball travels out of bounds the team that is closest to the line where the ball went out of bounds has possession. Often the offense will position a player behind the goal so that when a shot is made they will be closest to the spot where the ball went out of bounds when the ball goes out of bounds. You will also see the goalie sprint toward the back line when a shot is made to try to be the closest to the line so that the defensive team will gain possession. The stick is not an extension of the player, but the hand is, and players will thrust their stick toward the line to be closest.

Another
fantastic rule is that after a score there is a face off. So the team who just
scored could easily gain possession again by winning the face off and this
leads to runs where a team may score several unanswered goals which allows a
team to come back and it is one of the reasons why lacrosse is such a tremendously
exciting game.

In the
final two minutes of the game the team that is ahead must play with the
provision that they must stay within the attack zone. Failure to stay
in the attack zone constitutes offensive delay of game and possession
will be transferred to the losing team. This only applies to the team that is
ahead.

THE POSSESSION

During
a face off teams are required to keep four players including the goalie behind
their own defensive restraining line, and three attackers behind the offensive restraining
line. During the face off the 3 midfielders from each side fight for possession
of the ball. Once a player picks the ball up with his stick and controls it
possession occurs and the defensive players may now move forward to the
midfield line if they so choose and attackers may move back to the midfield
line as well if they so choose, but teams must maintain 4 defensive players in
their own half of the field during play and three attack men on the offensive
half of the field. It does not matter which of the players stay on which half
as long as 4 defensive players and three attack are maintained at all
times. Defensive players are allowed to go on the attack including
the goalie as long as a midfielder stays behind to keep the number of defenders
at 4. If a defender crosses the midfield line and the number of defenders in
their own end is less than four, offside’s occurs and possession is awarded to
the opponent. Likewise if an offensive player leaves the offensive half of the
field and a midfielder does not stay behind to keep the number of offensive
players at least three. This aspect of the game allows for creative transition
play. Defenders can initiate a fast break as long as a midfielder stays behind.
In today’s lacrosse world more and more teams especially at the higher levels
are developing specialist midfielders that play strictly offense or
defense, and do not transition from defense to attack and visa versa.
Personally, while I understand the reasons why this is happening and the very
diverse skills that are required at either end, I am greatly saddened because
for me one of the most exciting plays in Lacrosse is the fast break involving
the long stick defensemen or midfielder or even on a rare occasion the goalie
taking the ball the length of the field and scoring or setting up a fast break
goal.  It can kind of be related to the days in football when
players played both ways. Today that almost never happens in college or pro football,
but it used to be very common. We are heading in a similar direction with
lacrosse and this generation may be the last to see the really tremendous
complete midfield players who are equally adept on both ends of the
field.  I hope that is not true.

THE CHECK

The game of lacrosse is very physical and contact is very much a part of the game. Being aggressive and physical is a very good quality to have. Checking is a basic lacrosse skill. There are two different types of check that can be employed. Stick Checks and Body checks. Stick checks can be made as long as the attempt is to try to contact the opponents stick. And in some of the older aged divisions body checks can happen as long as the check is to the body above the waist and below the neck.

The
goal of the game is to score the most goals, but the real challenge is in
maintaining possession of the ball until a shot can be made. Once a player
establishes possession keeping it is not easy.  Defending players
attack the stick of the player in possession and try to knock the ball loose
with their own stick. This is called stick checking. They can also hit the ball
carrier or anyone within 5 yards of a loose ball with their shoulder like a
football block. This is called a body check and is legal as long as it not from
behind, above the waist, and below the shoulder.

If you are looking for how to play lacrosse information on a particular skill go to Lacrosse Skills.

If you are looking for how to play lacrosse information on how to coach a particular skill go to Lacrosse Drills.

PENALTIES

There
are two types of penalties: Technical fouls and Personal fouls.

Personal
fouls – Slashing, Tripping, Illegal Cross Checking, and checking from behind a
player are usually given 1 minute penalties. Penalties can be increased to 2 or
3 minutes or even ejection can be assessed for major or especially sever
personal fouls.

Technical
fouls such as – Offside’s, Crease violations, pushing from the rear, thumbing.
and Warding Off constitute a loss of possession.

PLAYING
A MAN DOWN

When a personal foul penalty occurs and a one minute (or longer) penalty is assessed the offending player is remove to the penalty area in front of the scorers table. The player must remain in the penalty area until the penalty has been served.

You can find an official rule book at the US lacrosse web site and check with your particular association for specific rules.

GIRLS LACROSSE RULES

FIELD POSITIONS

• FIRST HOME
  The first home’s responsibility is to score. Located in front of the goal, the first home must continually cut toward the goal for a shot, or cut away from the goal to make room for another player. She should have excellent stickwork.
• SECOND HOME
  The second home is considered the playmaker. She should be able to shoot well from every angle and distance from the goal
• THIRD HOME
  The third home’s responsibility is to transition the ball from defense to attack. She should be able to feed the ball to other players and fill in wing areas.
• ATTACK WINGS
  The wings are also responsible for transitioning the ball from defense to attack. Wings should have speed and endurance and be ready to receive the ball from the defense and run or pass the ball.

DEFENSE

• POINT
  The point’s responsibility is to mark first home. She should be able to stick check and look to intercept passes.
• COVERPOINT
  The coverpoint’s responsibility is to mark second home. She should be able to receive clears, run fast and have good footwork.
• THIRD MAN
  The third man’s responsibility is to mark third home. She should be able to intercept passes, clear the ball, run fast and have good footwork.
• CENTER
  The center’s responsibility is to control the draw and play both defense and attack. She should have speed and endurance.
• DEFENSE WING
  The wings are responsible for marking the attack wings and bringing the ball into the attack area. Wings should have speed and endurance.
• GOALKEEPER
  The goalkeeper’s responsibility is to protect the goal. She should have good stickwork, courage and confidence.

Girls’ lacrosse
is a non-contact game played by 12 players: a goalkeeper, five attackers and
six defenders. Seven field players may cross the restraining line and four stay
behind. The object of the game is to shoot the ball into the opponent’s goal.
The team scoring the most goals wins.

Girls’
and women’s lacrosse begins with a draw, which is taken by the center position.
The ball is placed between two horizontally held crosses (sticks), placed back-to-back,
at the center of the field. At the sound of the whistle, the ball is flung into
the air as the crosses are pulled up and away. The sticks must come up over the
players’ head. A draw is used to start each half and after each goal, and it
takes place at the center of the field. Only five players from each team are
permitted between restraining lines at the time of the draw. Once the signal
for the draw occurs, the players behind each restraining line may cross over.

The
collegiate game is 60 minutes long, with each half being 30 minutes. The high
school girls game is 50 minutes long, with each half being 25 minutes. In both
collegiate and high school play, teams are allowed two timeouts per game, only
after a goal. The restraining line, a solid line 30 yards up field from each
goal, extends across the width of the field. Solid/hard boundaries were added
to the game in 2006. Total length can be from 110 to 140 yards, while total
width can be from 60 to 70 yards. There must always be at least 10 yards of
space between the goal line and the end line at each end of the field. There is
a circle in the center of the field where the draw occurs. Two arcs are marked
from the center of the goal line. The eightmeter arc with hash marks four
meters away from each other bisect the arc. The 12-meter fan runs out from the
goal line extended. Substitution area, used by both teams, is in front of the
scorer’s table and is indicated by two hash marks placed 5 yards on either side
of the midfield line.

Seven
attacking players only are allowed over the restraining line in their offensive
end and only eight defenders are allowed over the line in their defensive end.
The additional defender is the goalkeeper. Players may exchange places during
play, but the player should have both feet over the line before the teammate
enters.

When a
whistle blows, all players must stop in place. Rough checks, and contact to the
body with the crosse or body, are not allowed, however, incidental body contact
may occur.

Field
players may pass, catch or run with the ball in their crosse. A player may gain
possession of the ball by dislodging it from an opponent’s crosse with a check.
A controlled check (crosse to crosse contact) is an attempt to knock the ball
free. No player may reach across an opponent’s body to check the handle of a
crosse when she is even with or behind that opponent. A player may not protect
the ball in her crosse by cradling so close to her body or face so as to make a
legal, safe check impossible for the opponent.

All legal
checks must be directed away from the player with the ball and cannot come
withina 7″ sphere of the head. No player is allowed to touch the ball with
her hands except the goalkeeper when she is within the goal circle. A change of
possession may occur if a player gains a distinct advantage by playing the ball
off her body.

Fouls
are categorized as major or minor, and the penalty for fouls is a “free
position.” For major fouls, the offending player is placed four meters
behind the player taking the free position. For a minor foul, the offending
player is placed four meters off, in the direction from which she approached
her opponent before committing the foul, and play is resumed.

When a
minor foul is committed in the 12-meter fan, the player with the ball has an
indirect free position, in which case the player must pass first or be checked
by an opponent before the team may shoot.

A slow
whistle occurs when the offense has entered the critical scoring area and is on
a scoring play and the defense has committed a major foul. A flag is displayed
in the air but no whistle is sounded so that the offense has an opportunity to
score a goal. If the offense is capable of getting a shot off, the flag is
withdrawn. A whistle is blown when a goal is scored or the scoring opportunity
is over. An immediate whistle is blown when a major foul, obstruction or
shooting space occurs, which jeopardizes the safety of a player.

The Youth Council of US Lacrosse has adopted rules for girls youth play.

90,000 Basic Rules of the Game of Lacrosse | Russia Lacrosse

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Before talking about the rules , it should be noted that there are several varieties of lacrosse, which are quite different from each other: men’s lacrosse, women’s lacrosse, box lacrosse, 6 by 6 lacrosse. In addition, there are differences, albeit not as conceptual as in different types of lacrosse, in the rules by which professional leagues, varsity teams and national teams play in international competitions.In this article, we will focus on the rules for men’s lacrosse, approved by the International Lacrosse Federation, it is according to them that most tournaments in Europe and Asia are held.

Object of the Game

Lacrosse is played by two teams, each with ten players. The goal of each team is to shoot the ball into the opponents’ goal and prevent the other team from doing the same.

In the game, the ball can be carried, thrown or kicked with the help of a club, rolled, or kicked in any direction, provided that the rules of the game are observed.

Duration of the game

According to international rules, the match lasts 4 periods of 15 minutes of “dirty time”. The exception is the last 30 seconds of the first three quarters and the last 2 minutes of the fourth quarter, these periods of time are played with the stopwatch stopping at each stop of the game.

At the end of each quarter, the teams change sides.
The break between the first and second quarters and between the third and fourth is 2 minutes, the break in the middle of the match is 10 minutes.

If at the end of the playing time, the score is equal, then the teams play 4-minute extra periods until a goal is scored, which will determine the winner. The game ends when the first goal is scored.

Playing Field

The lacrosse field is rectangular in shape, 110 meters long and 60 meters wide. On the field of white paint, the boundaries of the field are marked, which are called side and end lines, the center line, as well as the lines of the flanks and the goal zone lines, often called boundary lines.Around each gate, a circle with a radius of 3 meters is drawn, which indicates the area of ​​the gate. The center of the field is indicated by an “X”, square or circle.

Gate

The gate consists of two vertical posts connected by a rigid crossbar and has a square shape measuring 1.83 meters by 1.83 meters. The gates are installed in the center of the site between the side lines at a distance of 12 meters from the end line. The gate should be painted orange.

Goal area

Being in the goal area, the goalkeeper has some privileges: he can stop or block the ball in any way with his stick, body and even hand.No contact with the goalkeeper or his stick while he is in the goal area, regardless of whether he is in possession of the ball or not, but if the part of the goalkeeper’s stick that is outside the goal area and there is no ball in it, then only the stick is allowed to be attacked. …

Players

The team consists of ten people. A full team must include 1 goalkeeper, 3 defenders, 3 midfielders and 3 forwards. In addition, a team can have no more than 13 substitutes.Each team must appoint a captain and no more than four vice captains. They act as representatives of their team on the playing field during the game. Also, coaches appoint a “Nominal Defender” – this is a player who will serve a penalty for the goalkeeper if he receives a foul, and the “Home Player” (“Inhome”) can be any player who will serve a penalty for violations committed by the coach or the team generally. The other team’s own goals are also recorded on Inhome’s account.

Equipment

All players are required to wear protective gloves, suitable footwear, and a safety helmet equipped with a face shield.All players, including the goalkeeper, must wear a mouth guard (mouth guard) that must fit snugly against the teeth and jaw. Elbow pads, bib, rib guards, groin guards, etc. are recommended items of equipment for the fielder.

The goalkeeper must wear a safety helmet equipped with a face shield, throat protection, chest protection, groin protection. If desired, the goalkeeper can wear shin protectors (football shields), and compression shorts or pants with special protective pads.

Throw-in

A throw-in in the center of the field is taken at the beginning of each period and after every goal scored, except for the situations: was the ball at the end of the previous one.
2) If a player or coach of a team commits a foul before the throw-in, possession is awarded to the opposing team in center field.
The referee places the ball on the ground in the center of the field. The players taking the throw-in must stand in the half of the field on which their goal is located.
Putters are placed on the ground parallel to the center line, each on its own half of the field, without touching the center line. Players’ gloves may touch the center line.
The backs of the clubs are opposite each other, the players keep both hands on their clubs and do not touch the laces or the net, both gloves must touch the ground.Legs should not touch the clubs. Both arms, both feet and a player’s helmet must be to the left of their own club’s head.
A player is prohibited from being in the opponent’s half of the field or touching him with any part of the body. Feet should not touch the center line or half of the opponent’s field. Both feet must be on the ground before the referee blows the whistle to start the game.

As soon as the players have taken their throw-in positions, the referee should say “Set”. Once this signal is given, the hands of both players must remain stationary until the whistle is blown to start the game.

When the referee blows his whistle, each player can try to move the ball with his club and throw it in the desired direction in any way. Kicking or stepping on an opponent’s stick is prohibited. It is also forbidden to kick your club in an attempt to thereby move the opponent’s stick.
Do not intentionally grab the ball with your hand or fingers. It is also forbidden to grasp the opponent’s stick by hand or fingers.

While two players are on the throw-in and the ball is between their sticks, the other players are prohibited from making contact with the body or stick of either of the two players.

During a throw-in in the center of the field, the goalkeeper and three defenders must be within their goal zone, three forwards must be within the opposing goal zone and one player must be on each side of the wing zone, provided that the team is playing in full composition.

After the whistle blows, the players on the flanks are released and may leave the flank area.
All other players must remain within the designated areas until one of the players on the throw-in takes possession, or the ball crosses the goal area line, or the ball goes out of bounds.

Positioning of players on the throw-in before the whistle After the whistle, the players on the wings may leave their seats and fight for the ball. After a player has gained possession of the ball, defenders and forwards may cross the goal zone line (boundary line)

If the ball touches or crosses the line the goal area before possession is gained, the referee rotates with his straight right arm and shouts “free ball”, after which defenders and forwards are allowed to leave their areas and participate in the fight for the ball.

If, during the throw-in, one or more of the team’s players are on the penalty bench, that team must keep the goalkeeper and three defenders in their goal area and 3 forwards in the opposing goal area. Exception: If a team has 3 or more players on the penalty bench, then the player may leave his goal area to play the throw-in, while respecting the offside rule.

Offside Rule

A team is offside when there are no more than 10 players on the field, including players on the penalty bench and:

1) it has more than 6 players (including players in the penalty area) bench) in someone else’s half of the field;
2) she has more than 7 players (including the players on the penalty bench) in her half of the field.

The white defender crossed the center line and there were 7 white players in the attack zone. The white defender crossed the center line, but at the same time the white midfielder returned to his half. No rule violation.

For an offside position, a player is considered to have crossed over to the other half of the field if any part of his body, including the hand holding the club, but not the club itself, touches, enters or crosses the center line.

Out rule

In lacrosse, the rule for the ball to go out of bounds and the rule for putting it into play is slightly different from the sports we are accustomed to.

If the ball goes out of bounds as a result of a shot or a deflected shot at goal, it will be awarded to the team whose player was closest to the ball’s exit point. This player must be in the field. The player’s stick is not counted. If two players on the field of play from different teams are at the same distance from the ball when it goes out of bounds, a throw-in is administered.

Substitutions of players

Substitutions can occur at any time during the match.A player entering the substitution may enter the substitution zone only when the player on the field is ready to be substituted and immediately before the substitution. The substitute player must wait until the substituted player is in the substitution zone, and only then can he enter the field. Both players must go through the gate. Players may be substituted during the game from either side of the center line, provided the offside rule is respected. The substitution player must give space in the substitution area to the person leaving the field.

If a player leaving the field of play is tied to a half of the field by an offside rule, this rule will be observed if the player enters the field at the same time as the player leaving the field through the substitution zone.

Opponent’s attack – Chekin g

Powerful reception against an opponent can be carried out if the opponent is in possession of the ball or is within a radius of 2.74 meters from a free ball or a ball in flight and contact is made from the front or side, above the hips and below the neck.
It is allowed to attack the opponent’s stick with his stick, provided that the opponent is in possession of the ball or is within a radius of 2.74 meters from a free ball or ball in flight.In this case, the gloved hand holding the club is considered an extension of the club.

Screening

In lacrosse, it is allowed to use screens by the attacking team, similar to basketball. When performing a screening, the player must be stationary and stationary. The stance of the player must be normal, and it is forbidden to hold or pull the stick rigidly in order to impede the normal movement of the defender.

Rule Violations

There are three types of rule violations in lacrosse:
Technical fouls are less serious rule violations that can give you an unfair advantage.Punished with a change of possession or a 30 second penalty. A goal conceded by a team frees the penalized players from serving a violation.

Personal fouls are more serious violations of the rules that can result in injury or injury to a player. Punished with 1, 2 or 3 minutes of removal. The assigned penalty time is served in full, regardless of whether a goal was scored or not.

Removal from the game before the end of the match – If a player has 5 personal fouls or committed an extraordinary unsportsmanlike violation.

Technical fouls

The penalty for a technical violation may be as follows:

1) if at the time of the foul the offending team was in possession of the ball or the ball was free, then possession is awarded to the opposing team.

2) if at the moment of the foul the opponent of the offending team was in possession of the ball, then it is sent off the field for 30 seconds.

Personal fouls

The penalty for a personal violation is removal from the game for 1, 2 or 3 minutes, depending on the referee’s assessment of the severity and intent of the violation.The ball is usually awarded to the team against which the rules were violated. If the violation occurs before the start of the game, immediately after a goal has been scored, or at the end of a period, then the ball is returned to the offending team’s opponents in midfield and the throw-in will not take place.

Delayed whistle

Each referee has a yellow flag which he throws in situations of deferred whistle.

If the defending player commits a foul and the attacking team is in possession of the ball and, in the opinion of the referee, a goal is likely to be scored, and the foul did not result in the attacker’s loss of the ball, then the referee must throw down the flag and postpone the whistle until the goal situation ends.

Game Situations – Majority / Minority

Referees Signals

Lacrosse Bets. ? Rules of betting and bookmaker’s work.

Despite the fact that lacrosse is not developed in our country, for an ordinary Russian fan it will be more intuitive than baseball or American football. Here, as in regular football, there are defenders, goalkeepers, midfielders and forwards.The attack needs to score a goal into the opponent’s goal, the defenders, on the contrary, prevent the attack. Of course, lacrosse has its own characteristics, but the basic foundations of this sport are pretty trivial.

Lacrosse betting is hampered by the fact that it is well developed only in Canada and the United States. The number of serious lacrosse tournaments can be enumerated on one hand. Even the bookmaker Pinnacle Sports, which has good coverage of American sports, dropped lacrosse betting last year due to lack of interest in the sport.

A bit of history

Lacrosse is the oldest North American sport that was invented by the Indians before the first European settlers arrived on the continent. Its active popularization in the North American continent began in the middle of the 19th century.

Lacrosse was included in the 1904 Olympics program, but his presence there lasted only until 1908. He was expelled due to the fact that at that time only Canada and the United States were able to put teams to the Olympics.Lacrosse also attended three times as a show sport between 1928 and 1948.

The World Lacrosse Championships for men have been held since 1967 (since 1986, every 4 years). If no more than 6 teams participated in the first 6 tournaments, then in 2002 there were already 16 participants, and in 2014 – 38. Surprisingly, the Iroquois national team participates in the world championships, representing the Indians apart from the US national team.

The International Lacrosse Federation was founded back in 1974, but only in 2008 the women’s and men’s associations were merged.This was done in order to popularize this sport and eventually return it to the Olympic family.

Bookmakers for lacrosse betting: William Hill, Sbobet and Bwin.

Useful resources

• filacrosse.com is the site of the International Lacrosse Federation. The latest lacrosse news, official tournaments, statistics from previous competitions, national team ratings, videos of recent games and other useful information.
• uslacrosse.org is the site of the US National Lacrosse Federation. Lots of information about North American tournaments and lacrosse events.
• lacrosse.ca – Site of the Canadian Lacrosse Association. Coverage of Canadian national lacrosse tournaments, international tournaments, calendar, transfers, news, etc. In Canada, this sport is the most popular in the summer, so its national tournament is one of the strongest in the world.

Basic rules

• At the end. There is such a thing as overtime in lacrosse. There is no draw, but bookmakers can accept bets on it (taking into account the main time of the game).
• At the end of the period. In men’s lacrosse there are 4 periods of 15 minutes each, and in women’s lacrosse 2 to 25 minutes. There are many differences, these are practically different kinds of sports.
• Total. On average, 12-20 goals are scored per game in lacrosse, but at the world championships there are also games where the total exceeds 30 or more. Bookmakers also accept bets on the total of certain periods.
• To win with a handicap. Teams are at different levels in international lacrosse tournaments, so handicap bets must be used when playing.
• To win the tournament. You can place such bets at the World Championships, because only three teams are able to win: Canada, USA and Australia.

Analysis

Each line is important in lacrosse. At the same time, it is necessary to study not only the capabilities of the main team.Lacrosse allows for 9 substitutions per game, so it is important to understand if the players in the rotation will be able to strengthen the team.

When watching the previous matches of the team, pay attention to the game links and the team’s work. It is especially worth noting how the team is able to rebuild when removing a player or removing a player from the enemy. Here, as in hockey, players can receive penalty minutes and it is very important in such situations to realize a numerical advantage or, on the contrary, to prevent an own goal.

There are several types of lacrosse, including those in indoor areas. When playing outdoors, take into account the weather conditions. In bad weather, the total lacrosse game usually decreases.

The importance of the coach cannot be underestimated. When forming tactics for playing in lacrosse, they are repelled by the upcoming opponent. The coach’s ability to anticipate the opponent’s actions greatly affects the outcome of matches.

Features of betting on lacrosse

Sensations in international lacrosse tournaments are rare. The level of the national teams is so different that it is already clear before the start of the tournament which places the teams will take. It is clear that in such hands bookmakers will not give high odds on favorites, but you can always bet with a handicap.

Despite the low popularity of lacrosse, it is a very promising sport that will definitely return to the Olympic program in the near future, and then it will be added to the line by many major bookmakers.

Lacrosse is a game of American tribes.

Lacrosse. History of origin, description, features, types and rules and games

Lacrosse is a team game in which the team’s goal is to score a rubber ball into the opponent’s goal using their legs and a sports equipment, somewhat similar to a stick

History of origin

Lacrosse literally translates from French “la crosse” as “hockey stick”. And the game itself was invented by the American Indians, who used it as training warriors, as well as for the peaceful resolution of tribal conflicts.

Native Americans call this sport nothing but “brother of a little war” – this game provided such excellent military training. Archaeological evidence suggests that the predecessor of lacrosse was popular in the early 15th century in what is now Canada. The teams in those days often included hundreds of people, and the length of the field used for the game stretched for hundreds of meters, or even several kilometers.

Settlers from the Old World first learned about this game in the 17th century, and already with the onset of the 19th century, lacrosse began to spread widely among the inhabitants of the French colony of Canada.The first official lacrosse game took place there, in 1867.

At the Olympic Games, medals in this sport were played only twice – in 1904 and 1908. After that, lacrosse was canceled and was included in the program of the three Olympics only as a demonstration performance. Both times, when this game was considered an Olympic discipline, the Canadian team won the Olympic gold. For the first time, 36 athletes from 2 countries participated in the lacrosse competition, divided among themselves into three teams, two of which were Canadian, and one team was from the United States.The Mohawk Indians played in one of the national teams of Canada.

Two teams were represented at the next competition, one each from Canada and the United Kingdom. Only one match has been played, in which the Canadians have won gold medals for the second and last time in lacrosse history.

To date, lacrosse is not included in the list of sports recognized by the IOC. But since 1974, world championships in this sport have been regularly held, in which, in addition to the usual national teams of various countries, the Indian tribe of the Iroquois participates.

What is lacrosse?

The modern basic rules of the game of lacrosse involve 2 teams, each of which consists of 10 or 6 people. The main goal of the game, as mentioned above, is to get the ball into the opponent’s goal using a special projectile that remotely resembles something in between a racket and a club. The game is usually judged by 3 judges at once. Some rules depend on the type of lacrosse.

Types of games and their features

Today there are several variants of lacrosse, which differ from each other by the size of the field, the number of players and, in fact, the rules.There are 2 main classifications of the game of lacrosse. Depending on the location of the game, lacrosse is divided into:

Lacrosse on the field

The classic version of the game, which is played on a large outdoor field. Teams usually have 10 people.

Lacrosse in a box (mini lacrosse)

Unlike playing on the field, mini lacrosse is an indoor game. The number of participants in each team also corresponds to the word “mini” – 6 people each.

The composition of the teams is distinguished:

Men’s Lacrosse

During the game, the rules allow up to 9 substitutions. The men’s lacrosse game is played in 4 15 minute periods. The dimensions of the field for this game are 100 meters by 55 meters, and the width of the goal is 1.8 meters. The distance between the gates is 72 meters.

Ladies Lacrosse

In women’s lacrosse, the game lasts 2 periods of 25 minutes. The size of the field and the width of the goal may not differ from those presented in the men’s version of the game.But the distance between the gates is already a little more, or rather – 92 meters.

Contemporary lacrosse

More than thirty national associations and unions of lacrosse have been created in the world, most of which are located on the European continent. They were created not so long ago – only in the nineties of the last century. Perhaps that is why the leaders in this area are Canada and the United States, in the east of which lacrosse is very popular.

In Canada, the game is endowed with the status of the # 1 summer sport.The local association in this discipline is considered the oldest in the whole world, since it was founded in 1867. Every year, the country hosts the youth and senior indoor lacrosse championships in the first two divisions, and the third division lacrosse championship in the field.

In the United States, in addition to the national lacrosse association, there is the Iroquois Nationals, which represent Indian tribes in international competitions.

Small lacrosse associations have been active in Australia and England for a long time.With the onset of the nineties, other associations of lacrosse began to appear. Now they are in twenty countries of Europe, as well as in South Korea, Japan, New Zealand and other states. All are members of an international organization, except for the remaining independent associations in China and India.

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90,000 strategy and system tips – how to win more often 9,0001

Not only in the post-Soviet space, but throughout Europe and Asia, one can hardly find many connoisseurs of such a peculiar kind of sport as lacrosse.Lacrosse is more popular in the USA and Canada, and Australians also play it. But not to say that in these countries the attitude to the discipline is very serious: even the American Major League of Lacrosse (MLL), where the best masters play, is considered a semi-professional competition. Nevertheless, some Russian bookmakers also offer bets on lacrosse. Here’s what you need to know if you want to bet on this sport.

Lacrosse – Indian fun with Olympic prospects

Lacrosse – invention of the indigenous people of America, a historical heritage of the tribes.The active promotion of lacrosse in the United States, including among students, began in the middle of the 19th century. This is the only sport where the Iroquois national team is represented separately from the United States. For example, in 2018, the pioneers of lacrosse won bronze at the World Championship.

As for the world championships in lacrosse, the first was held in 1967, and since 1986 the national teams play the tournament every four years.

The Russian national lacrosse team has been participating in the championship since 2014, debuting at the highest level from 32nd place, and in 2018 the Russians were thirty-sixth.

The expansion of the World Championship to 46 teams in 2018 is one of the trump cards of the world federation as it strives to bring lacrosse back into the Olympic program.

Yes, indeed, lacrosse was already an Olympic species back in 1904, but already in 1908 the Olympic history of lacrosse was interrupted due to the fact that there were not enough participants even to fill the podium: only Americans and Canadians arrived. Lacrosse matches were also played at the Games from 1928 to 1948, but only in demo mode.In 1948, the United States and Britain played their only match at Wembley, which ended in a 5-5 draw.

A little about the rules

Lacrosse is a team sport where two teams of ten players compete. For example, in terms of dynamics, it is much closer to a Russian fan, since in lacrosse the ball is in play for an overwhelming amount of time, like football or hockey, and unlike such Western types as American football or baseball.

The size of the field is slightly smaller than a football field – 100 by 55 meters.There are also the positions of the goalkeeper, defenders, midfielders and forwards, however, they handle a small rubber ball not with their feet or hands, but with special nets with a net at the end.

The teams spend most of the match in turns in a positional attack, trying to overcome the massive defense and score the ball into the goal with the help of net passes, as well as individual actions. It is a contact sport, and strong attacking players’ maneuvers are similar to rugby or hockey, and strength holds are allowed for defense.Therefore, lacrosse players enter the field wearing helmets and body armor.

In addition to the aforementioned Major League Lacrosse (MLL) and the World Cup, the annual student competition in the USA is also a significant event. Many large colleges have their own lacrosse programs, and winning the national championship in the top division of the NCAA is very prestigious.

Types of bets on lacrosse

Basic outcomes . In any team sport, bookmakers give an outcome line, and lacrosse is no exception.Usually these are two-way bets, taking into account overtime, on the victory of the first or second team, since the regulations, as a rule, do not provide for a draw in official matches. True, in some cases, bookmakers may offer a line for regular time as a supplement for particularly high-profile events, with three-way quotes (odds for the victory of the first team, a draw and the victory of the second team).

Handicap . It is not uncommon for big competitions to see handicap offers. Especially if the difference in the level of teams is large enough and the main outcomes are given in a reduced version.In close matches, it is possible to insure yourself with a handicap of 1-2 goals.

Outcomes of periods . Like hockey, a lacrosse match is 60 minutes long, but there are four periods (15 minutes each). You can bet on the outcome of each of them separately, with the possibility of a draw.

Totals . At the highest level, 20-30 goals are scored in lacrosse matches. In the Major League lacrosse in 2018 totals were 25-27 goals, in the student championship – closer to 20. At the World Championships, due to the low level of most national teams, the spread may be greater – some barely score 7-8 goals, others may be noted and fifteen.As in the case of the outcomes, you can also bet on totals within certain periods.

Long-term rates . Some bookmakers can give quotes on the tournament outcomes in general. However, at the same world championship there is not much choice. For 2018, the USA team won 11 times in 13 world championships and the Canadians twice won. A higher level of intrigue can be seen in the semi-pro MLL and the student NCAA First Division.

How to Bet on Lacrosse: Unequal Squads and Weather Are Important Factors

Lacrosse is a team sport where teamwork and interactions are an integral part of a winning strategy.That is why a player who wants to make money on bets on this sport needs to carefully monitor not only the form of the teams and past performances, but also the injuries of important players and the rearrangements in the lineups.

The depth of the squad or the national team is very important. In lacrosse, nine substitutions can be made during a match, allowing deep teams to exert more intense pressure on an opponent’s defense throughout the match.

Also important is the statistics of deletions and the implementation of numerical advantages by teams.In this regard, here you can draw analogies with hockey, however, in a large variety of lacrosse, the system of penalties is more complex. In any case, a match between two overly aggressive teams is more likely to end with a high total, and the team played better in the majority will have an advantage in a tough game.

In the mini-variation of lacrosse, matches are played on classic “boxes”, the rules are somewhat similar to those of hockey, and there is no weather factor. But in big lacrosse, matches are mostly held in open stadiums, and sometimes the elements can intervene in the confrontation.Therefore, before betting, especially in the case of a forecast for total, it is advisable to look at the weather forecast. In the rain on a natural surface, the game becomes more viscous, it is more difficult for athletes to create in attack and maneuver, which is why they score less points.

Which Russian bookmakers offer lacrosse lines?

Frankly speaking, lacrosse is far from the most popular game sport not only in Russia, but even in its native country. What can we say about the offices of the post-Soviet space, if even many Western giants of the gaming industry refuse to accept bets on lacrosse.

Sometimes Russian bookmakers with the most varied lines still accept bets on big events in the world of lacrosse. For example, one of the leaders in the Legalbet People’s rating, the bookmaker 1xBet , regularly accepts bets on the playoffs of the Major League of Lacrosse (MLL). The margin for these events is a significant 8 percent, that is, for equiprobable events, the coefficients will be approximately 1.85.

For world and student competitions, you can sometimes see the line in such popular offices as “ Leon “, “ Betting League “, “ Fonbet “, “ Olympus ” and Winline .

The significant expansion of the geography of lacrosse over the past 10 years allows us to hope for the development of this sport, including inclusion in the Olympics program (at least as a test species). Now it remains a semi-amateur sport, on which most offices do not accept bets due to low demand.

If you want to understand this unusual discipline and challenge yourself, then lacrosse betting can be useful for you. There are no win-win strategies, and it is unlikely that you can make good money due to the high margins and the small number of offers, but with proper immersion, you will not remain indifferent to this dynamic contact sport.The main thing is to try to delve into, follow the news and not hit blindly.

90,000 Lacrosse is … What is Lacrosse?

Lacrosse (fr. la crosse – “stick”) – a team game in which two teams try to hit the opponent’s goal with a rubber ball, using their feet and a projectile, which is a cross between a stick and a racket.

History of appearance

Ball players. Lithograph of the first half of the 19th century.

Winnipeg Shamrocks Team, 1904 Olympic Champions

The game was invented by the American Indians, who used it to train warriors and peacefully resolve conflicts between tribes.According to archaeological research, the prototype of lacrosse was known in the territory of modern Canada as early as the beginning of the fifteenth century. Teams at that time often consisted of several hundred people, and the length of the field for the game ranged from several hundred meters to several kilometers.

European settlers first got acquainted with this game in the 17th century, and by the beginning of the 19th century it began to gain popularity among the French population of Canada. The first official lacrosse match took place in Canada in 1867.

Lacrosse was twice included in the program of the Summer Olympic Games – in 1904 and 1908.

Game variations

Field layout for male lacrosse

Lacrosse in a box

Currently there are several varieties of lacrosse, differing in field size, number of players and rules. There are four main varieties: lacrosse in the field ( eng. ) ( on the grass or simply lacrosse ), “lacrosse in a box” ( eng. ), intercross ( eng.), polocross ( eng.). Since 1967, the men’s world championships in lacrosse on the grass ( eng. ) have been held, in which teams from various countries, as well as the Iroquois Indian tribe (since 1990), take part.

Current state

There are more than three dozen national lacrosse associations in the world, most of them are located in Europe and created in the last decade of the 20th century, but the leading countries are the USA and Canada, in the eastern regions of which lacrosse is very popular.

Lacrosse in Canada

In Canada, the game is the national summer sport. The Canadian Lacrosse Association was founded in 1867 and is the oldest in the world. Each year, there is an indoor lacrosse championship for adults and youth, in two divisions each, as well as a three-division outdoor lacrosse championship.

• Lacrosse box
  • Mann Cup Senior “A” – held since 1901, the trophy is made of pure gold and costs about 25 thousand dollars ^[1] .
  • Presidents Cup Senior “B”
  • Minto Cup Junior “A”
  • Founders Cup Junior “B”

• Open lacrosse
  • Ross Cup Senior Division I (since 1984)
  • Victory Trophy Senior Division II (since 1985)
  • Baggataway Cup University

US Lacrosse

In the United States, along with the national lacrosse association, there is the Iroquois Nationals, which represent Indian tribes in international lacrosse competitions.

Lacrosse in other countries

Small communities of lacrosse have long existed in England and Australia. Beginning in the 1990s, other national lacrosse associations began to appear, which now exist in two dozen European countries, in New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, etc. All of them are united in an international federation, with the exception of independent associations in India and China.

In Russia, this sport has barely begun to develop. There are two teams: “St.Petersburg Slayers “and” Moscow Rebels “, there is no national organization. The first official match in Russia took place on November 13, 2009 in St. Petersburg. Exactly one year later, another match took place in Moscow ^[2] .

See also

Notes

Literature

References

90,000 About who is being chased and beaten | Publications

Here is another Indian competition, the carrera, which remains the domain of the Tarahumara Indians only. It has not taken root in anyone else.And it could not be grafted. And not because it is very difficult. No, just no difficulties. Judge for yourself – in the carrera you just need to run, throwing a wooden ball with your big toe. No gates, no strict rules. Just run to yourself. Only now you have to run for at least two days. The Tarahumara people, who live in the Mexican Sierra Madre mountains, are renowned for their tireless running. In translation, their name means “flying legs”. And their achievements here are truly phenomenal. For example, here is the data given in the “Sportbulletin” published in Stuttgart: a Tarahumara Indian named Juan Maceira ran a distance of 265 kilometers without stopping.Agree that with such agility it is difficult to find opponents who want to compete in throwing a wooden ball on the run …

In the same place, in Mexico, they play another ball game inherited from the Aztecs. This is about hulam. Those who play hulama are placed in difficult conditions – he must not hit the ball with his hand, foot, or head, he has no stick, no club, no racket. He has the right to hit with only one place – the thigh. And that makes sense.

The Aztecs were led by rubber, but they did not know how to make inflatable balls out of it.Therefore, they were thrown over with large cast balls.