Mens lacrosse stick length. Lacrosse Stick Dimensions: A Comprehensive Guide to Rules and Regulations

What are the essential dimensions for lacrosse sticks. How do stick requirements differ for men’s and women’s lacrosse. What are the key components of a lacrosse stick. How to properly size a lacrosse stick for optimal performance.

Understanding Lacrosse Stick Regulations

Lacrosse, a sport known for its fast-paced action and precision, relies heavily on the equipment used by players. At the heart of this equipment is the lacrosse stick, also referred to as the “crosse.” This crucial piece of gear serves multiple purposes: catching, passing, and shooting the ball, as well as checking opponents’ sticks to dislodge the ball. In men’s lacrosse, it’s even used for body checks, within specific limitations.

The importance of having a regulation-compliant stick cannot be overstated. If an official discovers an illegal stick before a game, the player will be prohibited from using it during the match. More critically, if an illegal stick is detected during play, both the player and team typically face penalties. This underscores the necessity for all lacrosse sticks to conform to the appropriate rules and regulations.

General Appearance and Modifications

Lacrosse sticks across all levels share common features: long, thin handles with a roughly triangular-shaped pocket at the far end for ball handling. While players are permitted to apply tape or similar materials to improve grip, any other alterations are strictly prohibited. This includes shaving down the stick to reduce weight or increase flexibility.

Sticks can be manufactured from various materials, including wood, fiberglass, or synthetic substances. For hollow metal sticks, a protective end cap is mandatory to ensure player safety.

Lacrosse Stick Length Requirements

The length of a lacrosse stick varies based on several factors, including the player’s age, gender, and position on the field. Understanding these variations is crucial for compliance and optimal performance.

Men’s Lacrosse Stick Lengths

• Short Crosse (Field Stick): 40 to 42 inches for high school and college players
• Long Crosse: 52 to 72 inches (limited to four field players)
• 11-and-younger age group: Long crosse limited to 52 inches
• 9-and-younger field players: All sticks measure between 37 and 42 inches (no long crosse)
• Goalkeeper Stick: 40 to 72 inches

Women’s Lacrosse Stick Lengths

• Field Players: 35 ½ to 43 ¼ inches (no long crosse used)
• Goalkeeper Stick: 35 ½ to 48 inches (NCAA rules), up to 52 inches for girls’ leagues

It’s important to note that only one goalkeeper per team is allowed on the field at a time, and they are the only player permitted to use a goalie stick.

Pocket Specifications for Men’s Lacrosse Sticks

The pocket, located within the stick’s head area, is a critical component that directly affects ball control and playing style. For men’s lacrosse sticks, specific regulations govern the pocket’s dimensions and construction.

Field Player Stick Pocket

• Head width: 6 to 10 inches at its widest point
• Head length: Minimum of 10 inches
• Typically features a mesh pocket

Goalkeeper Stick Pocket

• Head width: 10 to 12 inches at its widest point
• Head length: Maximum of 16 ½ inches

To prevent unfair ball retention, the pocket depth is regulated. When a stick is held horizontally, the top of a ball placed in the pocket must not dip below the head’s side wall.

Pocket Specifications for Women’s Lacrosse Sticks

Women’s lacrosse sticks have distinct pocket requirements that differ significantly from men’s sticks, reflecting the unique aspects of the women’s game.

Field Player Stick Pocket

• Mesh pockets are not allowed
• Constructed with four or five leather or synthetic thongs
• Includes eight to 12 stitches of cross-lacing
• Up to two shooting/throw strings
• Head length: 25.4 to 30.5 centimeters (approximately 10 to 12 inches)
• Head width: 18 to 23 centimeters (about 7 to 9 inches)

Goalkeeper Stick Pocket

• May contain six or seven thongs or a mesh pocket
• Head length: Up to 42 centimeters (16 ½ inches)
• Head width: Up to 33 centimeters (13 inches) at its widest point

For women’s field sticks, the top of a ball placed in the pocket must extend above the head’s upper edge when the stick is held horizontally, ensuring fair play and ball dislodgement.

How to Properly Size a Lacrosse Stick

Selecting the correct size lacrosse stick is crucial for optimal performance on the field. A properly sized stick can enhance accuracy, control, and overall playing ability, while an ill-fitted one may hinder a player’s development and effectiveness.

The Sizing Process

1. Stand the stick upright with the head on the ground
2. The top of the stick should reach your waist
3. The bottom of the stick should be at the tip of your toes

This method ensures proper handling and control during play, allowing for efficient catching, passing, and shooting. It’s important to note that as players grow or change positions, they may need to reassess their stick size to maintain optimal performance.

Understanding Lacrosse Stick Components

To make an informed decision when selecting a lacrosse stick, it’s essential to understand its various components and their functions. This knowledge will help players choose a stick that best suits their playing style and position.

Main Components of a Lacrosse Stick

• Head: The top portion of the stick where the ball is caught, carried, and thrown
• Shaft: The long handle of the stick, which provides leverage and control
• Pocket: The netted area within the head that holds the ball

Each of these components plays a crucial role in a player’s performance and must adhere to specific regulations based on the level of play and gender of the player.

Choosing the Right Lacrosse Stick for Your Position

Different positions on the lacrosse field require specific stick characteristics to maximize performance. Understanding these nuances can help players select the most appropriate stick for their role.

Attack and Midfield Positions

Players in these offensive positions typically benefit from shorter sticks (40-42 inches) that offer greater maneuverability and ball control. The pocket depth and string tension may vary based on personal preference and playing style.

Defensive Positions

Defenders often opt for longer sticks (52-72 inches) to increase their reach for checking and intercepting passes. These sticks usually have stiffer shafts for improved checking power.

Goalkeeper Position

Goalie sticks have the widest heads and can be up to 72 inches long for men and 52 inches for women. The larger head size aids in blocking shots and making saves.

By considering these position-specific requirements, players can choose a stick that enhances their natural abilities and complements their role on the team.

Maintaining Your Lacrosse Stick for Optimal Performance

Proper maintenance of your lacrosse stick is essential for ensuring consistent performance and longevity. Regular care can prevent unnecessary wear and tear, keeping your stick game-ready throughout the season.

Cleaning and Storage

• Clean your stick regularly with mild soap and water
• Dry thoroughly after cleaning or playing in wet conditions
• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
• Avoid leaving your stick in extreme temperatures, such as a hot car

Pocket Maintenance

The pocket is a crucial component that requires special attention:

• Regularly check for loose or frayed strings
• Re-string or adjust the pocket as needed to maintain optimal depth and tension
• Use a ball to break in a new pocket or maintain the shape of an existing one

Shaft Care

The shaft’s condition can significantly impact your grip and overall control:

• Inspect for dents, cracks, or splinters
• Replace worn grip tape to ensure a secure hold
• Consider using shaft wax for additional grip in wet conditions

By implementing these maintenance practices, players can ensure their lacrosse sticks remain in top condition, allowing for consistent performance on the field.

Evolving Technologies in Lacrosse Stick Manufacturing

The world of lacrosse equipment is constantly evolving, with manufacturers introducing new technologies and materials to enhance player performance while adhering to regulations. These advancements are changing the way players approach the game and optimize their equipment.

Innovative Materials

Modern lacrosse sticks are being crafted from increasingly sophisticated materials:

• Carbon fiber shafts: Offering superior strength-to-weight ratios
• Titanium alloys: Providing exceptional durability and responsiveness
• Composite plastics: Allowing for precise head shapes and improved ball control

Smart Stick Technology

Emerging technologies are beginning to integrate digital elements into lacrosse sticks:

• Embedded sensors: Tracking metrics like shot speed and stick movement
• Companion apps: Providing real-time feedback and performance analysis
• Customizable flex points: Allowing players to fine-tune their stick’s responsiveness

Sustainability Efforts

Manufacturers are also focusing on eco-friendly options:

• Biodegradable materials for certain stick components
• Recycling programs for used lacrosse equipment
• Sustainable manufacturing processes to reduce environmental impact

As these technologies continue to develop, players can expect increasingly personalized and high-performing lacrosse sticks that push the boundaries of the sport while remaining within regulatory guidelines.

The Impact of Stick Regulations on Playing Style

Lacrosse stick regulations do more than ensure fair play; they significantly influence playing styles and strategies across different levels and versions of the game. Understanding these impacts can help players and coaches adapt their approaches for maximum effectiveness.

Men’s vs. Women’s Lacrosse

The distinct stick regulations for men’s and women’s lacrosse lead to notable differences in play:

• Men’s deeper pockets allow for more ball protection, enabling a more physical style of play
• Women’s shallower pockets encourage quicker passes and a faster-paced game
• The longer sticks in men’s lacrosse facilitate more defensive checking, while women’s lacrosse relies more on positioning and interception

Youth Lacrosse Adaptations

Modified stick regulations for youth players are designed to develop fundamental skills:

• Shorter stick lengths help younger players maintain control and develop proper techniques
• Simplified pocket designs focus on basic catching and throwing skills
• Gradual introduction of longer sticks as players age helps in position specialization

Professional and Collegiate Innovations

At higher levels of play, players often push the limits of stick regulations to gain competitive advantages:

• Customized pocket stringing patterns for enhanced ball control and shot accuracy
• Experimentation with stick flex and weight distribution within legal limits
• Position-specific stick modifications to maximize effectiveness in specialized roles

By recognizing how stick regulations shape the game, players and coaches can develop strategies that leverage these rules to their advantage, ultimately elevating their performance on the field.

Lacrosse Rules & Regulations: Stick Requirements

The lacrosse stick, also known as the “crosse,” is used to catch, pass and shoot the ball. It’s also used to check the opponent’s stick and try to dislodge the ball. In the men’s game, players can also check an opponent’s body with the crosse, within certain limitations. If an official discovers an illegal stick before the game, the player won’t be permitted to use the stick during the contest. If an illegal stick is detected during the game, however, the player and team typically receives a penalty, so it’s important that each lacrosse stick conforms to the appropriate rules.

Overall Appearance

Lacrosse sticks at all levels contain long, thin handles with a roughly triangular-shaped pocket at the far end for handling the ball. Players may apply tape or a similar material to the handle to improve its grip, but may not otherwise alter a stick, such as shaving it down to lighten the stick or to make it more flexible. Sticks are made from a variety of materials, including wood, fiberglass or synthetic substances. Hollow metal sticks must include a protective end cap.

Length

The length of a lacrosse stick varies according to age, gender and the player’s position. In high school and college men’s lacrosse, the smaller field stick, known as the “short crosse,” is 40 to 42 inches long. Additionally, four field players may use a “long crosse” measuring 52 to 72 inches. In the 11-and-younger age group, the long crosse is limited to 52 inches. There is no long crosse for 9-and-younger field players, all of whom use a stick measuring between 37 and 42 inches. Female players also don’t use a long crosse. All women’s field sticks measure from 35 ½ to 43 ¼ inches. Male goalkeepers may use a stick ranging between 40 and 72 inches long. Women’s goalie sticks are 35 ½ to 48 inches long, according to NCAA rules, but girls may use goalie sticks up to 52 inches long. Only the goalkeeper may use a goalie stick, and each team is limited to one goalie at a time.

Pocket — Men’s Sticks

The pocket is located within a stick’s head area. It will always be narrower near the shaft than it is at the far end. Men’s sticks typically contain a mesh pocket. The head of a male field player’s stick must be 6 to 10 inches wide at its widest point and at least 10 inches long. The head of a goalie stick must measure 10 to 12 inches wide at its widest point and a maximum of 16 ½ inches long. The pocket can’t be strung too deeply, otherwise defenders wouldn’t be able to dislodge the ball. For example, if a stick is held horizontally, the top of a ball placed in the pocket can’t dip below the head’s side wall.

Pocket — Women’s Sticks

Women field players may not use sticks with mesh pockets. Instead, their pockets are made primarily with four or five leather or synthetic thongs. The pocket also includes eight to 12 stitches of cross-lacing and up to two strings, referred to as shooting/throw strings. A goalie stick may contain six or seven thongs, or it may include a mesh pocket. The field stick’s head measures 25.4 to 30.5 centimeters long, or about 10 to 12 inches, and 18 to 23 centimeters wide, about 7 to 9 inches. A goalie stick’s head can be up to 42 centimeters long, or 16 ½ inches, and 33 centimeters wide, or 13 inches, at its widest point. The top of a ball placed in the pocket of a women’s field stick must extend above the head’s upper edge when the stick is held horizontally.

How to Size Lacrosse Stick

Lacrosse is a fast-paced and exciting sport that requires skill and the right equipment to succeed. One of the most important pieces of equipment is the lacrosse stick, and getting the right size can make all the difference. If you’re a new player or looking to upgrade your gear, you may be wondering how to size your lacrosse stick. The right size can help you improve your accuracy and control, while the wrong size can hinder your performance. 

How to Size Lacrosse Stick? To size a lacrosse stick, hold the stick upright with the head on the ground. The top of the stick should reach your waist, and the bottom should be at the tip of your toes. This allows for proper handling and control during play.

In this blog, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to choose the right size lacrosse stick for your needs.

Lacrosse Stick Components

Before diving into the details of how to size a lacrosse stick, first understand the components that make up a lacrosse stick. By knowing the different parts of a lacrosse stick and their functions, you can better understand how to choose the right size for your playing style and position. Here is the anatomy of a lacrosse stick and the different types of lacrosse sticks available on the market.

Anatomy of a Lacrosse Stick

A lacrosse stick is composed of three main components: the head, the shaft, and the pocket. The head is the top portion of the stick and is typically made of plastic or composite materials. It has several features, including the scoop, sidewalls, and throat.

The scoop is the curved portion of the head that helps players pick up ground balls. The sidewalls are the raised edges that run along the sides of the head and help to maintain the shape of the pocket. The throat is the narrow portion of the head where the shaft attaches to the head.

The shaft is the long, straight portion of the stick that is typically made of metal, composite, or wood. The size and shape of the shaft can vary, with some players preferring a thicker shaft for more power and others opting for a thinner shaft for better control. The grip on the shaft can also differ, with some players preferring a smooth surface and others opting for a textured surface for better grip.

The pocket is the part of the stick where the ball is held. It is formed by a combination of the head and the mesh or strings that are strung through the sidewalls and attached to the shaft. The depth and width of the pocket can vary, with some players preferring a shallow pocket for better ball control and others opting for a deeper pocket for better ball retention.

Types of Lacrosse Sticks

There are several types of lacrosse sticks available on the market, each designed for a specific position or playing style. Attack and midfield players typically use shorter sticks that are between 40-42 inches in length, while defensemen typically use longer sticks that are between 52-72 inches in length. Goalies use the longest sticks, which can be up to 72 inches in length.

There are also different types of heads available, including universal heads, which are designed to be versatile and suitable for all positions, and position-specific heads, which are designed for a specific position. For example, attack heads are typically narrower and more pinched to provide better ball control, while defense heads are wider and more offset to provide better defensive capabilities.

When choosing a lacrosse stick, consider your position, playing style, and personal preferences. By understanding the anatomy of a lacrosse stick and the different types available, you can choose the right stick for your needs and improve your performance on the field.

Measuring Player Height

Measuring player height is an essential step in determining the appropriate size of a lacrosse stick. A stick that is too long or too short can significantly affect a player’s performance on the field. Below is the importance of player height in stick sizing and provide a step-by-step guide on how to accurately measure player height.

Importance of player height in stick sizing

Player height plays a crucial role in determining the length of a lacrosse stick. A player’s height is used as a starting point to select the length of the stick.

A stick that is too long can be challenging to control, making it difficult for the player to make accurate passes and catch the ball. On the other hand, a stick that is too short can limit the player’s reach and reduce their ability to catch high passes.

The ideal stick length for a player is one that allows them to maintain a comfortable and balanced position on the field. The right stick length can help a player improve their performance by enabling them to control the ball better, make accurate passes, and take better shots.

How to accurately measure player height

To accurately measure a player’s height, follow these simple steps:

1. Stand the player against a flat surface such as a wall, with their back straight and feet together.
2. Place a flat object such as a book or ruler on top of the player’s head, making sure it’s level and parallel to the floor.
3. Mark the wall with a pencil at the point where the flat object meets the wall.
4. Measure the distance from the floor to the mark on the wall to determine the player’s height in feet and inches.

It’s essential to ensure that the player is standing upright and looking straight ahead while measuring their height. Also, make sure that the measuring surface is flat and even, as any inconsistencies can affect the accuracy of the measurement.

Once you have determined the player’s height, you can use a sizing chart or consult with a lacrosse equipment expert to select the right stick length for them.

Stick Length Regulations

When it comes to lacrosse, one of the most important pieces of equipment is the stick. It’s not just a matter of choosing a stick that feels good in your hands, but also one that complies with regulations. In the following paragraphs, we are discussing stick length regulations for lacrosse, including rules set by the NCAA and NFHS as well as youth lacrosse stick regulations.

NCAA and NFHS Rules for Stick Length

The NCAA and NFHS have strict rules when it comes to lacrosse stick length. For men’s lacrosse, the stick length cannot exceed 72 inches, while for women’s lacrosse, the stick length cannot exceed 52 inches. The length is measured from the end cap to the top of the head. If the stick is found to be longer than the allowed length, the player will be penalized and the stick will be confiscated.

Youth Lacrosse Stick Regulations

Youth lacrosse players also have specific regulations when it comes to stick length. For boys and girls under the age of 14, the stick length cannot exceed 60 inches. For players under the age of 12, the stick length cannot exceed 48 inches.  Note that these regulations are set to ensure that young players are able to handle their sticks properly and safely.

Aside from the length, there are also regulations for the width of the lacrosse stick head. For boys’ youth lacrosse, the head cannot be wider than 6 inches at its widest point. For girls’ youth lacrosse, the head cannot be more than 7 inches wide at its widest point. These regulations are in place to ensure that the ball can be caught and released properly.

Position-Based Sizing

One of the most important factors to consider when sizing a lacrosse stick is the position of the player. Different positions require different lengths and widths of sticks to optimize performance. Here are the appropriate sizing for attack and midfield players, defense players, and goalies.

Attack and Midfield Player Stick Sizing

Attack and midfield players require a stick that is shorter in length and wider in width compared to other positions. The ideal length for an attack/midfield stick is between 40-42 inches, while the width should be between 7-9 inches. This sizing allows for better ball control and maneuverability, which is crucial for players who spend a lot of time in the offensive zone.

Defense Player Stick Sizing

Defense players require a longer stick to help them reach and check opponents effectively. The ideal length for a defense stick is between 52-72 inches, while the width should be between 10-12 inches. This sizing allows for greater reach, which is essential for defending against opponents and intercepting passes.

Goalie Stick Sizing

Goalies require a stick that is longer and wider than other positions. The ideal length for a goalie stick is between 40-72 inches, depending on the height of the goalie. The width of the stick should be between 10-12 inches, allowing for better ball control and coverage of the goal area. It’s essential to note that goalie sticks are typically heavier than other sticks to help protect against shots on goal.

Personal Preference and Play Style

When it comes to choosing the right size lacrosse stick, personal preference and play style play a crucial role. Different players have different styles of playing the game, and the length of the stick can make a significant impact on their performance. In the following paragraphs, we are discussing how personal preference and play style can influence stick length and how to balance comfort and control while choosing the right stick.

How play style influences stick length

A player’s style of play is one of the most critical factors to consider when choosing the right size lacrosse stick. Attackmen and midfielders typically prefer shorter sticks that offer greater control and maneuverability, while defenders typically use longer sticks that provide a greater reach and leverage to defend against opponents.

When choosing the right size stick, consider your position and playing style. Attackmen and midfielders typically use sticks that are between 40-42 inches, while defenders often use sticks that are between 52-72 inches.

Attackmen and midfielders need to be able to dodge and maneuver quickly around defenders. They need sticks that are lightweight and easy to handle. A shorter stick can offer greater control, making it easier to pass and catch the ball, while also allowing players to shoot accurately.

Defenders, on the other hand, need longer sticks to defend against opponents and clear the ball. A longer stick provides greater reach, which can help defenders keep attackers at bay. However, longer sticks can also be heavier and more challenging to handle, which is why it’s essential to find the right balance between control and comfort.

Balancing comfort and control

Choosing the right size lacrosse stick is not just about finding the right length, but also about balancing comfort and control. A stick that is too long or too short can affect your performance on the field, making it essential to find the right balance between comfort and control.

When choosing a stick, consider the weight and balance of the stick, as well as the position of the pocket. The pocket is the part of the stick that holds the ball, and its position can affect the control and accuracy of your shots.

A stick that is too heavy or unbalanced can be challenging to handle, affecting your ability to pass, catch, and shoot the ball accurately. Choose a stick that feels comfortable in your hand, allowing you to move quickly and easily on the field.

Step by Step Guide: Sizing Lacrosse Stick

If you’re new to lacrosse, one of the essential pieces of equipment you’ll need is a lacrosse stick. But with so many options available, it can be challenging to know where to start. Below is the process of sizing a lacrosse stick to fit your body and skill level.

Choosing the Right Shaft Length

The shaft length is a crucial factor to consider when sizing a lacrosse stick. A shaft that is too long or too short can affect your ability to handle the ball and make accurate passes and shots. The best way to determine the right shaft length is to stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and hold the stick vertically against your body.

The top of the stick should reach your waistline, and the bottom should rest on the ground. If the stick is too long, you can trim the shaft to the appropriate length using a saw or pipe cutter. If it’s too short, you’ll need to purchase a longer shaft.

Selecting the Appropriate Head

The head of the lacrosse stick is the part that comes into contact with the ball. It’s essential to select a head that suits your position and playing style. Attackers typically prefer narrow heads for better ball control, while midfielders and defenders prefer wider heads for intercepting passes and making checks. The pocket depth also plays a role in selecting the appropriate head.

A deeper pocket provides more control, while a shallower pocket allows for quicker release times. It’s essential to consider the rules of your league when selecting a head, as some leagues have restrictions on head width and depth.

Adjusting Stick Length for Growth and Skill Development

As you grow and develop your skills, you may need to adjust the length of your lacrosse stick. Younger players may start with shorter sticks and gradually move up to longer sticks as they grow taller. It’s also common for players to adjust their stick length to suit their position and playing style.

Attackers often prefer shorter sticks for better control and maneuverability, while midfielders and defenders prefer longer sticks for greater reach and defensive capabilities.

Assembling and Taping the Stick

Once you’ve selected the appropriate shaft and head for your needs, it’s time to assemble your lacrosse stick. The head should be securely attached to the shaft using screws or bolts. The pocket should be strung tightly to ensure that the ball stays in place during play.

The stick should be taped to provide a better grip and protect your hands from impacts. There are many different taping techniques to choose from, and it’s essential to find one that suits your preferences and playing style.

Caring for Your Lacrosse Stick

Caring for your lacrosse stick is an essential part of being a responsible player. With proper maintenance, your stick can perform at its best for a longer time, giving you a better experience on the field. Following are some valuable tips on how to keep your stick in top condition, including regular maintenance and when to replace certain components.

Regular maintenance tips

1. Clean your stick after every game: After every game or practice session, make sure to clean your stick with a damp cloth. This will help remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated during the game. Avoid using harsh chemicals as they may damage the stick’s material.
2. Store your stick properly: When not in use, store your stick in a cool, dry place. Avoid leaving it in direct sunlight or in a hot car as this can warp the stick.
3. Keep the strings tight: Check the tightness of your strings regularly. Loose strings can affect the accuracy of your shots and passes, and tight strings can cause your pocket to be illegal.

When to replace components

1. The head: If your head is cracked or dented, it’s time to replace it. A damaged head can affect the performance of your stick and may even be dangerous during play.
2. The mesh: If the mesh on your stick is ripped or frayed, it’s time to replace it. A damaged mesh can cause your ball control to suffer, affecting your game.
3. The shaft: If your shaft is bent, cracked, or warped, it’s time to replace it. A damaged shaft can affect your ability to pass and shoot accurately and can also be dangerous during play.

Conclusion

When sizing a lacrosse stick, stand with your arms straight out to your sides. The length of the stick should reach from the middle of your chest to the tip of your fingers. This ensures a comfortable grip and optimal performance on the field.

As we conclude this guide on how to size a lacrosse stick, review the key points we’ve discussed. Proper stick sizing is essential for optimal performance on the field, and investing in the right stick size can make all the difference in your gameplay.

Throughout this guide, we’ve explored the different factors that go into choosing the right stick size, including your position, skill level, and personal preference. We’ve also discussed the importance of considering the length of the shaft, the size and shape of the head, and the weight of the stick.

By taking the time to properly size your lacrosse stick, you can improve your accuracy, control, and overall performance. Whether you’re a beginner just starting out or an experienced player looking to elevate your game, finding the right stick size can help you achieve your goals.

Sledge hockey. Rules and competition. Equipment and features

Sledge hockey is a form of ice hockey. This is a Paralympic sport, a team game for men with health limitations (diseases and injuries of the musculoskeletal system). A distinctive feature of this discipline is that instead of skates, athletes ride on special sledges, and also play with two clubs at once instead of one.

Historical information

Sledge hockey appeared in Stockholm (Sweden) at 1960s Several athletes who were unable to walk and were in a rehabilitation center came up with this game in order not to give up the sport. They modified conventional sleds with two runners for skates, so that the puck could pass under them unhindered. Clubs for the game were round sticks with handles from bicycles. The goalkeeper was absent. The first games were held on a frozen pond near the capital of Sweden and soon gained wide popularity.

Already at 1969 in Sweden there were 5 active sledge hockey teams, and for the first time an international tournament was held with the Norwegian team. After that, discipline marched around the world. The first set of unified rules was drawn up in 1990. In 1974, the game was presented at the Paralympics as a demonstration game, and in 1994 it became part of its program on an ongoing basis.

Today sledge hockey teams exist in England, Italy, the Czech Republic, Japan, Poland, the Netherlands, Germany, Korea. Well, of course, we have. Sledge hockey is available not only to the disabled, but also to ordinary, healthy people. In addition to adult clubs, there are also children’s clubs.

Sledge hockey came to Russia in the late 2000s. The first team was formed in Izhevsk, followed by interest in the game in the capital, Orenburg, Khanty-Mansiysk. In 2009, the discipline was officially recognized, and the Russian Championship was held for the first time. The host city was Podolsk. The Phoenix Club near Moscow, which won the championship, represented our country at the Sochi Paralympic Games in 2014. Currently, the number of adult clubs in the Russian Federation is 8, and for children – 2.

Sledge Hockey Equipment

Protective equipment is very important in this discipline. Athletes must be protected from being hit by sticks or pucks, or from being injured when colliding with each other on the ice, so that their health is not further damaged. Hockey players wear a helmet equipped with a mask or grill, as well as a special collar to protect the neck. There are shoulder pads, elbow pads, knee pads and special gloves – leggings.

More protective equipment for the goalkeeper. In addition to all of the above, he is required to wear a bib, shields for the lower extremities and a special glove-trap. This is no coincidence, because the speed of the flying puck is very high – up to 100 km / h.

As for the washer, it is made from vulcanized rubber. Other material may be used, but only approved by the International Ice Hockey Federation.

Washer parameters are as follows:

• Thickness – 2.5 cm.
• Diameter – 7.6 cm.
• Weight – 156-170 g. sledges are coming. They can be aluminum or steel with parameters 1.2 m (l) x 0.6 m (w). The sled is equipped with 3mm thick steel skids and has a bow-shaped front. The height of the skids is such that the puck can easily pass under them, even while on edge (8.5-9.5 cm). A backrest may be present on the equipment, but this is not a mandatory requirement. If there is a backrest, it does not exceed the level of the armpits of the player sitting in the sled. To fix the feet, calves, knees and hips of the hockey player, belts are provided.

  The sledge hockey stick cannot be longer than 1 m. It is made of wood, plastic or aluminum-titanium alloy. There is a hook on one side and teeth on the other. Athletes use the hook for dribbling and hitting the ball, and the teeth for moving in a sledge on the ice surface of the field. The length of the hook is 25 cm for field players and 35 cm for the goalkeeper.

  Due to the fact that the teeth can damage the ice, certain requirements are imposed on the projectile:

  • The teeth must be blunt.
  • Their number is not more than 6.
  • The length of each tooth is 4 mm.

  The goaltender’s stick may be fitted with a metal serrated attachment at the base of the blade, provided that the tines meet the requirements listed above. The goalkeeper glove-trap also has teeth, their length is less than 4 mm.

  During the game, hockey players use 2 sticks, holding them in both hands. Adhesive tape acts as a winding.

  Rules

  The field of play is 56-60 m long and 26-30 m wide, the corners are rounded, and a 1. 22 m high fence is installed around the perimeter. 1.22(h) x 1.83(w) x 0.6-1.12(d). At official tournaments, there must be signal lights on the field: red lights up when a goal is scored, and green when play is stopped.

  5 players and a goalkeeper enter the ice. Another 11 people, including the goalkeeper, are on the bench. Substitutions can be made at any time during a match.

  Otherwise, the rules are almost the same as those used in traditional ice hockey, with the differences being related to the different way the players move around the field. Among the differences, it should be noted that the only penalty sanction is applied to players who violate the rules – a free throw using the front of the sled from the place of violation of the rules. They call him “Ti”. The remaining penalties are associated with suspension from the game of 2 minutes. before being completely removed from the field.

  The match consists of 3 periods of 15 minutes. every. After each period there is a break of 15 minutes. At the beginning of the new half, the teams change sides of the field. The fight begins with a puck throw-in in the center of the field, after which the players, driving the puck and making passes to teammates, seek to score a goal into the opponent’s goal.

  The team with the most goals scored wins the game. She is awarded 2 points. If a draw is found, each side receives one point. Loss brings 0. If the competition regulations do not provide for a draw, a 10-minute overtime is assigned, where the team that scored first wins.

  Hockey players who, for health reasons, find it difficult to move with their hands, may enter the field with an assistant pusher. The assistants wear sportswear and protective equipment and cannot move faster than the players. They are not allowed to enter the gate area.

  Significance of sledge hockey

  This sport is indispensable for people with disabilities, because it can be used to combine physical activity and socialization required for recovery. Sledge hockey is especially indicated for children suffering from cerebral palsy and other pathologies of the musculoskeletal system.

  In our country, children’s teams have been created since 2016. At first there were only 3 of them, by today this number has increased to 22. Children and teenagers aged 7-20 years are involved in them. Inter-regional competitions are organized with the participation of charitable foundations. Currently, the Youth Team project is being implemented, within the framework of which young hockey players are being trained for a professional sports career. Special training sessions are held for the team members, trips to international competitions, including those to the United States and Canada, are organized. In the future, these athletes may be able to become members of our Paralympic team.

  Even at the amateur level, sledge hockey is a great way to distract children from phones and tablets, feel like part of a sports community, motivate them to socialize and be outdoors.