What are the key lacrosse rules players need to know. How have lacrosse equipment regulations changed recently. Which protective gear is required for youth players. Where can you get lacrosse sticks properly strung.
Understanding Basic Lacrosse Rules
Lacrosse is an exciting sport with Native American origins that has evolved significantly over time. While passing, shooting, and catching with a stick may seem straightforward, there are important rules that govern gameplay to ensure safety and fairness. Let’s explore some of the fundamental lacrosse rules players should understand:
- Out-of-bounds rules define field boundaries and dictate possession when the ball goes out of play
- Fouls result in penalties ranging from 30 seconds to 3 minutes depending on severity
- Checking rules outline how players can use their sticks to dislodge the ball from opponents
- Players cannot interfere with opponents using their hands or feet – the stick must be used
- Equipment and lineup requirements vary between men’s and women’s lacrosse
While lacrosse may look simple from afar, understanding and following the rules is crucial for players at all levels. Let’s dive deeper into some key aspects of lacrosse regulations and equipment.
Recent Changes to Lacrosse Equipment Rules
In Fall 2019, US Lacrosse approved important equipment-related rule changes aimed at enhancing player safety, particularly around heart protection. What exactly changed? The new regulations require all field players to wear chest protectors meeting the NOCSAE ND200 performance standard, also known as EKG or External Kardiac Guard pads.
Why were these changes implemented? The primary goal is to reduce the risk of a rare but potentially fatal condition called commotio cordis. This occurs when a blow to the chest at a specific moment in the heart’s rhythm causes cardiac arrest. While uncommon, the consequences can be devastating, making this new protection requirement crucial for player safety.
Parents and players purchasing new protective equipment should keep these updated regulations in mind to ensure compliance and maximize on-field safety. The emphasis on heart protection underscores lacrosse’s commitment to player wellbeing as the sport continues to grow in popularity.
Essential Protective Gear for Youth Lacrosse Players
Proper protective equipment is vital for youth lacrosse players to participate safely. The required gear differs slightly between boys’ and girls’ lacrosse due to variations in physical contact allowed in each version of the sport. Here’s a breakdown of the essential protective equipment for youth players:
Boys’ Lacrosse Equipment
- Helmet
- Shoulder pads
- Elbow/arm pads
- Gloves
- Mouthguard
- Cleats
- Protective cup
- Chest protector (meeting NOCSAE ND200 standard)
Girls’ Lacrosse Equipment
- Lacrosse goggles
- Mouthguard
- Cleats
- Chest protector (meeting NOCSAE ND200 standard)
Goalies in both boys’ and girls’ lacrosse require additional specialized protective gear, which is often provided by teams or clubs. It’s important for parents and players to ensure all equipment fits properly and meets current safety standards. When in doubt about equipment requirements or fit, don’t hesitate to consult with coaches or league officials.
The Importance of Proper Lacrosse Stick Stringing
A properly strung lacrosse stick is essential for optimal performance in cradling, passing, catching, and shooting. How does stick stringing impact a player’s game? The pocket depth, tension, and overall string configuration directly affect ball control and release. A well-strung stick can significantly enhance a player’s accuracy and consistency on the field.
Many youth players and parents may not realize the importance of proper stringing or know where to get it done. Fortunately, experienced players and specialized services often offer stick stringing. For example, the Arlington Attack lacrosse program highlights two alumni players who provide custom stringing services:
- AJ Campion of Mid-West Custom Lacrosse offers restringing services starting at $20 for existing mesh or $40 with new Hero 2.0 mesh.
- Jack Chaney (@strings_by_44 on Instagram) provides customized stringing for any player or position at $20 if you provide your own string.
Investing in professional stick stringing can make a significant difference in a player’s performance and enjoyment of the game. It’s particularly beneficial for newer players who may not yet have the skills to optimize their stick’s pocket themselves.
Lacrosse Stick Length Rules and Regulations
Lacrosse stick length is a crucial aspect of the game, with specific regulations in place to ensure fair play and maintain the sport’s integrity. How do stick length rules differ between positions and age groups? Let’s break it down:
Men’s/Boys’ Lacrosse Stick Lengths
- Short stick (used by attackmen and midfielders): 40-42 inches
- Long stick (used by defensemen and some midfielders): 52-72 inches
- Goalie stick: 40-72 inches
Women’s/Girls’ Lacrosse Stick Lengths
- Field players: 35.5-43.25 inches
- Goalie stick: 35.5-52 inches
Why do these length differences exist? The variations in stick length between positions and genders reflect the different styles of play and levels of physical contact allowed in each version of the sport. Longer sticks in men’s lacrosse, particularly for defensemen, allow for greater reach in checking and disrupting opponents’ play. The shorter sticks in women’s lacrosse align with the reduced physical contact and emphasis on stick skills in that version of the game.
It’s important for players and parents to be aware of these regulations when purchasing or modifying lacrosse sticks. Using a stick outside the allowed length range can result in penalties or disqualification during official play.
The Role of Checking in Lacrosse
Checking is a fundamental defensive technique in lacrosse, but the rules surrounding it vary significantly between men’s and women’s versions of the sport. What exactly is checking in lacrosse? It involves using the stick to dislodge the ball from an opponent’s possession or disrupt their play.
Checking in Men’s Lacrosse
In men’s lacrosse, both body checking and stick checking are allowed, with some restrictions:
- Body checks must be delivered to the front or side of an opponent, from the shoulders to the waist
- Stick checks should be targeted at the opponent’s stick or gloved hands holding the stick
- Excessive force or checks targeting the head or neck are prohibited and result in penalties
Checking in Women’s Lacrosse
Women’s lacrosse has more restrictive checking rules to promote stick skills and reduce physical contact:
- Only stick-to-stick checking is allowed
- Checks must be controlled and not strike the opponent’s body
- Full checking is only permitted in certain age groups and levels of play
- Modified checking (stick checks below the shoulder) may be allowed in some youth levels
Understanding and properly executing legal checks is crucial for defensive players in lacrosse. Coaches focus significant time on teaching proper checking technique to ensure players can effectively defend within the rules of the game.
Lacrosse Field Dimensions and Boundaries
The lacrosse field’s size and markings play a crucial role in gameplay, defining the areas where different rules apply. How do field dimensions differ between men’s and women’s lacrosse? Let’s examine the key aspects of lacrosse field layout:
Men’s Lacrosse Field
- Length: 110 yards
- Width: 60 yards
- Goal distance from end line: 15 yards
- Crease radius: 9 feet
- Substitution area: 20 yards wide
Women’s Lacrosse Field
- Length: 100-140 yards (110 yards for international play)
- Width: 60-70 yards
- Goal distance from end line: 10-20 yards (15 yards for international play)
- Crease radius: 8.5 feet
- Substitution area: 18 meters wide
Why do these differences exist? The variations in field dimensions reflect the different styles of play between men’s and women’s lacrosse. The larger field in men’s lacrosse accommodates the higher number of players and more physical nature of the game. Women’s lacrosse fields can vary more in size, allowing for some flexibility in available playing spaces while maintaining the game’s core dynamics.
Understanding field boundaries and markings is essential for players to navigate the game effectively. Key areas like the crease (the circle around the goal) and substitution areas have specific rules governing player movement and possession, making field awareness a crucial skill in lacrosse.
Fostering Youth Lacrosse: Equipment and Community Support
Supporting youth lacrosse goes beyond understanding rules and providing equipment. How can communities and businesses contribute to the growth of youth lacrosse programs? The Arlington Attack lacrosse program offers some inspiring examples:
- Local businesses sponsoring teams or leagues
- Sports stores partnering to provide discounted equipment
- Former players offering services like stick stringing
- Physical therapy clinics providing sports medicine support
These partnerships not only help make the sport more accessible but also create a supportive ecosystem around youth lacrosse. Parents and players benefit from expert advice, while local businesses gain exposure and contribute to community development.
For those interested in supporting youth lacrosse, many programs offer sponsorship opportunities. These can range from financial contributions to in-kind donations of equipment or services. By fostering strong community ties, lacrosse programs can thrive and provide valuable experiences for young athletes.
As lacrosse continues to grow in popularity, understanding the rules, equipment needs, and community support structures becomes increasingly important. Whether you’re a player, parent, coach, or community member, staying informed about these aspects of the game contributes to a positive and enriching lacrosse experience for all involved.
Equipment
Arlington Attack is proud to have many partners and sponsors that provide all the gear and expertise to set your player up for success. Please check them all out below.
The following items are required for participation in lacrosse. Goalies are required to have additional protective equipment. The Arlington Attack provides all specialized goalie gear. Please feel free to contact us an [email protected] if you have any questions about individual protective equipment.
Important Update
In Fall 2019, the US Lacrosse Board of Directors approved equipment-related rule changes designed to enhance heart protection for athletes, specifically to reduce the risk of a rare injury called commotio cordis. US Lacrosse boys’ and girls’ field lacrosse rules now require all players must wear chest protectors that meet the NOCSAE performance standard ND200 (commonly referred to as EKG or External Kardiac Guard pads) in order to be deemed legal for play.
Please keep these rules changes in mind if you are purchasing new shoulder pads/equipment for your youth player.
Youth Boys Protective Gear
- Men’s Lacrosse Stick (Examples)
- Helmet
- Shoulder pads
- Elbow/arm pads
- Gloves
- Mouthguard
- Cleats
- Protective cup
Youth Girls Protective Gear
- Women’s Lacrosse Stick (Examples)
- Lacrosse Goggles (Examples)
- Mouthguard
- Cleats
Arlington Attack Alumni – Lacrosse Head Stringing Opportunity
Having your lacrosse stick strung properly is probably the most important factor in having good technique with cradling, passing, catching and certainly shooting. AJ Campion and Jack Chaney are both Arlington Attack alumni and currently play lacrosse for D214 high schools. Get your stick ready for our upcoming season now!
Mid-West Custom Lacrosse
Mi-West Customs Lacrosse is able to string any head with any specifications.
- $20 – Restring w/existing mesh
- $40 – Restring with new (Hero 2.0) mesh
Contact:
AJ Campion
(847) 971-7319
[email protected]
Jack Chaney – @strings_by_44
Jack can customize for any player, any position.
- $20 (must provide own string)
- Instagram: @strings_by_44
Contact:
Jack Chaney
(203) 913-8426
[email protected]
Arlington Attack LaxGear Bags
Passcode = Attack
Chicago Area Lacrosse Stores
TAMA Lacrosse
The Lax Shop
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS
Want to support youth lacrosse in your local community?
Contact [email protected] to become a sponsor today! We have multiple options to consider.
DelBoccio / Marchetti Group
Visit Website
The Barre Code – Arlington Heights
Visit Website
Barre | Bootcamp | Brawl
Elevate Physical Therapy
Visit Website
Lacrosse Rules: What You Really Need to Know
Lacrosse is a game that was invented long ago by the American natives and has gradually evolved over the years.
It’s a game where players make use of sticks and nets to directly launch the ball into a net. The game has few variations and so do the lacrosse rules which are in place to ensure the game is progressing and it safe and fair.
Generally, there are basic things that you may be in the know about lacrosse that can never skip your mind. Things like; passing, shooting the ball, using a lacrosse stick, and catching the ball. But this is not sufficient if you don’t know the rules of the game. Hope you enjoy going through some of the rules listed below.
Lacrosse basic rules
Like all other games, lacrosse has rules that are strictly followed. So, what are the rules of lacrosse? One of the basic rules is; the out-of-bounds rule which lays down the limits. It also dictates the awarding of possession when a ball goes out of bounds. Fouls also are among the rules and it dictates the penalty which ranges from three to five minutes. This all depends on the intensity of the foul.
Checking also qualifies in the list of the basic rules; wondering how it’s a rule? Fine, it’s about how the players use their sticks for instance in poking to dislodge the opponent’s ball.
It’s good to note that the checking rules vary depending on several things. Another basic rule is the use of sticks. This explains how you are not supposed to interfere with the opponent using your feet or hands.
Generally, each official category of lacrosse has specific equipment and lineup as per the sport’s guidelines. The game may look simple from afar, to an extent of imagining that all you have to do is wield a crosse. But you are wrong about that because there are rules that should be at your fingertips. Here’s more information on the rules.
Lacrosse checking rules
Lacrosse stick length rule
Lacrosse stick length rule
Catching, passing, and even shooting the ball is the major function of the crosse, another name for lacrosse stick. You will agree that the importance of the stick in lacrosse games is unmatched. An illegal stick cannot by any means be used in the game upon its discovery by the officials. Not only that, but it can also earn the player a penalty.
The stick varies depending on gender, age, and the position of the player.
As per the NFHS and NCAA lacrosse stick rules the ref positions the stick to the ground. The ref does this in a perpendicular position to gauge if the ball will fall. This is repeated but in an opposite direction horizontally. If the ball dares to fall, it implies that you have an illegal lacrosse pocket. This will force you to update the lacrosse stringing. Check out more lacrosse stick rules and regulations.
The smaller field stick in men’s lacrosse especially college and high school is 40 to 42 inches long. In younger age groups, it’s usually limited to 52 inches. For female players, the length of the stick ranges between 35 to 43inches. The male goalkeepers tend to use a stick ranging between 40 and 72 inches in length. But on the other hand, the women goalkeepers use sticks that range from 35½ to 43 ¼ inches.
Lacrosse stick rules
Lacrosse pocket rules
Lacrosse pockets are designed to be triangular in shape and can be made from rawhide, gut, or synthetic material.
Some people may argue that this is outdated, but keep in mind that it’s still applicable. Sagging pockets are considered to be illegal, other than that they are generally not appealing. There’s a test amid the ball which some lacrosse pockets usually evade, but the ref tests somehow when in doubt.
You may think that the ref doesn’t pay keen attention to the colors, but you could be wrong. As much as multiple colors are allowed, they could turn out to be illegal. Imagine if you paint on a black mesh a white circle, you may not know but it will raise some concerns. Wondering why? This will without a doubt trick the opponent because you will look like you have the ball. Don’t be surprised if you are told that it’s illegal.
Lacrosse shooting string rules
The key thing to remember when it comes to this is the hanging strings. They should not at any point exceed an average length of two inches from where there’s a tie-off. This leaves you with no options other than cutting off your strings after you’re done stringing the lacrosse stick.
Woe unto you if you are a lazy borne because you definitely won’t be up to this task.
To keep up with the rules, you have to take note of your shooting strings. Ensure they are not lower than the recommended four inches from the tip of the lacrosse head. You can make this a bit easier for you by sticking two shooters at the top of the head. This will cease to be an issue once you do that and you also won’t worry about flaunting the rules.
Rules for girls
It could be that you are new to this sport or probably not well versant with the rules of the game. But one sure thing is that you will have to learn a ton of the rules. Among the key rules is the Three-second rule. This allows offensive players to pass over the ball or change their cradle. All this is to be done in a span of three seconds, sounds a bit interesting huh!
Keeping off the goalie circle is also another rule which doesn’t entertain offensive players near the goalie circle. But defense players are allowed to reach the goalie center, wondering why? Easy, it’s simply to redirect or to block a shot.
There are also the girl’s lacrosse stick rules which are followed keenly as part of rules to play lacrosse. Without a doubt, the girls’ lacrosse rules make the game more interesting.
The other rules are offensive charging which is similar to that of the basketball game. This is mostly about the position of the defensive and offensive player. Screen or pick is also another rule which dictates that you won’t give a ball to the player setting the screen. But they are at a certain point given the chance to change their direction. Bet that you may not want to miss seeing this going down in action, right?
Women’s rules
Playing a game is certainly not only good for your physical healthy but mental health too. With women’s around-the-clock unending activities, some of their rules ought to be accommodating. Doing away with the checking of the pregame stick is one sure way of doing this. But still, let it not skip your mind the officials may opt to check the stick at their discretion.
If it happens so, don’t think their act is malicious.
It is acceptable in women’s lacrosse to kick the ball when getting it out of traffic. Apart from that, players are free to self-start in the event of foul play from the opposing players. An interesting thing about this is that there’s free movement. The women do not have to wait for a whistle to be blown as it is in most sports.
When it comes to timing, the women’s game is played in quarters, fifteen minutes each and not thirty minutes halves. You can resume the play after two minutes followed by teams switching directions after each quarter. The good thing about this is that coaches do not ask for a check of their sticks during the team’s timeout.
Women’s lacrosse
Men’s lacrosse rules
Before going deeper into these rules, it will be good to know that men view respect as the name of the game. This is as per the NCAA. This was probably arrived at because respect has been in most instances identified as a crucial element in sportsmanship.
One of the major rules that were introduced recently is the new lacrosse chest protector rules. It states that the goalkeeper must adorn it.
There is an existing rule about the ball and the specified colors. Next time you come across a pink, white, lime green, orange or yellow ball don’t question the colors. These are the colors used and the balls must satisfactorily meet the laid standards. The time factor has also been considered where the regulating time is 60 minutes. There are also agreed variations in the playing time.
Pregame procedures entail tossing a coin which is done by the referee. The winning team then has a choice when it comes to goals or the controls. The penalty for the agreed-upon personal fouls is suspension for a few minutes as per the judgment of officials. Technical fouls are less serious compared to personal fouls. It attracts a penalty of suspension of the offending player for 30 seconds.
Lacrosse boys rules
Just like in the men’s rule, each player is supposed to be wearing protective equipment.
This equipment must not be altered in any way to be different from how it was originally manufactured. It should be worn exactly how the manufacturer envisioned it to be put on. Don’t wear it the way you want probably to make it look fancy. No! There’s a reason unknown to you why the manufacturer wanted it that way.
The other rule states when the clock will be stopped. That is, during time out for the team, an injury, or just the official time-out. Perhaps you want to know what happens to a penalty running time. Just know that the whistle will be blown for the play to resume. It will be worth noting that most of the existing rules have been revised in 2021 and some have been already adopted.
The Crease
This is one of the rules which bar the offensive player from entering the circle surrounding the goal. Certainly, the goal cannot count if the player steps in the crease during shooting. Defender enters the crease only when they don’t have a ball in their stick.
Could it be that you are wondering what a defensive player that happens to get the ball in the crease does? Okay, the player can leave the crease but then can get in again.
This is one of the rules that every beginner must be told. It does not only help them know what to do but guides them throughout their time in the game.
Lacrosse box rules
It could be that when you hear about box lacrosse the first thing that crosses your mind is an enclosed scenario. Well, it is also known as indoor lacrosse; one of the characteristics is that it’s not played in the field. The team usually has six players; five runners and a goaltender. The lacrosse stick of a player must range between 39 and 47 inches in length. Traditional sticks made from wood are also allowed in.
The penalty inbox rules lasts a maximum of two minutes but not in the case of a major penalty. The big question is what triggers the penalties? The following are common causes of a minor penalty; tripping, illegal equipment, interference, roughing among other things. The causes of major penalties which last for five minutes are injuries resulting from violence and fights.
Lacrosse scoring rules
You have to get the ball in the goal for it to be termed as a score.
Players from both sides position themselves as mid-fielders, attackers, goalies, and defense. As much as any player can score, a midfielder or attacker is usually in a good position to score. Now you know who is responsible for your performance in the field. You have to be keen on who occupies the two positions that can help you pull a major win.
Goals in lacrosse are worth one point except when it’s a major league that is usually worth two points. You might be surprised that there are scenarios where a point can be awarded to the opposing team. It’s a good thing that you are now aware of it. This happens when the ball enters the goal accidentally. This is one of the rules and the only thing that can help you when it comes to this is avoiding accidents.
Conclusion
Try to imagine a lacrosse game without the rules! One thing you are sure of is that it won’t amount to what it is currently. We bet that you also know that it’s not just a matter of having a ball and wielding your stick.
But there are rules to be followed when playing the game. You now have no excuse for flaunting any of the lacrosse rules, just step up and give your best shot.
FAQs
Can I play lacrosse without experience?
Yes, but the level of your ability is what will determine the team in which you will be placed. Even a journey of a thousand miles begins with a simple step. So you will be placed in a team of players without experience just like you.
Is there a specific color for lacrosse sticks?
There’s no specific color for the lacrosse stick. You are at liberty to have any color you want. The only thing to remember is to avoid coloring the ball. Because painting the ball may sometimes be seen as a conspiracy to cheat.
Is it a must I wear protective gear when playing.
Yes, it’s good to keep safe when playing the game. In men’s and boy’s lacrosse, each player is supposed to be wearing protective devices. Note that girls’ lacrosse contact rules are strict compared to boys who require more protective gear.
Do the rules of the game prevent injuries?
The rules have been put in place as guidelines that should dictate how the game is played. Looking at the enforced penalties, it will be right to say the rules somehow mitigate imminent injuries. It’s most likely that without the rules, the number of reported injuries would always be high.
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