How do NFHS lacrosse head regulations differ from NCAA rules. What are the key differences between high school and college legal lacrosse heads. Why are some players switching to college-legal heads earlier.
The Evolution of Lacrosse Head Regulations
Lacrosse equipment regulations have undergone significant changes over the years, particularly when it comes to the heads of lacrosse sticks. In the 2009/2010 season, a major rule change affected college lacrosse across the board. All players were required to use a new, wider shaped head, making previous models illegal for NCAA games. This shift had a profound impact on players, manufacturers, and retailers alike.
While this change is now well-established in college play, it raises interesting questions about potential future changes at the high school level. What if all high school spec heads suddenly became outlawed in lacrosse? Such a change would likely cause significant disruption in the lacrosse community.
Key Differences Between High School and College Lacrosse Heads
The primary difference between high school and college lacrosse heads lies in their width. College-legal heads are generally wider, which affects stringing patterns and pocket formation. This difference is designed to change the way the ball sits in the pocket and how it’s released during play.
Why are college heads wider?
- To reduce ball retention
- To promote quicker release
- To increase difficulty in cradling
- To potentially reduce the speed of shots
These changes aim to make the game safer and more challenging at the collegiate level. However, they also require players to adapt their techniques and equipment choices.
The Trend of Early Adoption
An interesting trend has emerged among older high school players: many are voluntarily switching to college-legal heads before entering collegiate play. This proactive approach allows players to familiarize themselves with the equipment they’ll be required to use at the next level.
Why might a high school player choose to use a college-legal head? There are several potential benefits:
- Easier transition to college play
- Development of skills that translate better to the college game
- Potential advantage in recruiting, showing commitment to future development
- Gradual adaptation to different pocket feel and ball release
Popular College-Legal Lacrosse Heads
For players considering making the switch to college-legal heads, there are numerous options available. Some popular choices include:
- STX Stallion U500
- Maverik Optik U
- Warrior Rabil 2X
- Nike Lakota U
- Brine RP3 X
These heads are designed for offensive players and often have high school versions available as well, allowing for easier comparison and transition.
Impact on Performance and Stringing
Does using a college-legal head significantly impact a player’s performance? While the wider head does change the feel and behavior of the stick, many players and stringers argue that with proper technique, any desired pocket can be achieved regardless of head width.
However, it’s important to note that stringing patterns typically need to be adjusted when moving from a high school to a college-legal head. The wider shape requires different techniques to achieve similar pocket characteristics and ball control.
How does stringing differ for college-legal heads?
- May require more sidewall holes to be used
- Often involves different knot placements
- Can necessitate adjustments in mesh tension
- Might incorporate different shooting string configurations
Players and stringers who take the time to understand these differences can often recreate their preferred pocket style in a college-legal head, maintaining their playing style while conforming to regulations.
Potential Future Changes in High School Regulations
While there’s no current indication that high school regulations will change to match college rules, it’s a possibility that players and coaches should be aware of. The trickle-down effect of rule changes from college to high school levels has been observed in other aspects of the game.
If such a change were to occur, it would likely be implemented with a transition period, allowing players, teams, and manufacturers to adapt. However, being proactive and familiar with college-legal equipment could provide an advantage in such a scenario.
The Importance of Adaptability in Lacrosse
Regardless of potential rule changes, the ability to adapt to different equipment specifications is a valuable skill for any lacrosse player. Whether it’s adjusting to a new head shape, learning different stringing techniques, or modifying playing style to suit equipment regulations, flexibility can be a significant asset in a player’s development.
Coaches can play a crucial role in this adaptability by:
- Encouraging players to experiment with different legal head shapes
- Teaching the fundamentals of stick stringing and maintenance
- Emphasizing skill development that translates across different equipment types
- Staying informed about potential rule changes and equipment trends
Balancing Tradition and Innovation in Lacrosse Equipment
The evolution of lacrosse equipment regulations reflects a broader tension in the sport between tradition and innovation. While changes in head specifications aim to improve safety and modify gameplay, they also represent a departure from equipment designs that have been used for generations.
This balance between honoring the sport’s heritage and embracing technological advancements is an ongoing discussion in the lacrosse community. Players, coaches, and governing bodies must continually evaluate how equipment changes impact the essence of the game.
How do equipment changes affect the spirit of lacrosse?
- They can alter traditional playing styles
- May influence the development of new techniques
- Can affect scoring patterns and game pace
- Might impact player recruitment and development strategies
As the sport continues to grow and evolve, finding the right balance between tradition and progress will remain a key challenge for all stakeholders in the lacrosse community.
The Role of Manufacturers in Equipment Evolution
Lacrosse equipment manufacturers play a crucial role in the ongoing evolution of the sport. They must not only respond to rule changes but also anticipate potential future regulations. This proactive approach allows them to develop and test new designs that meet both current and potential future requirements.
Manufacturers often work closely with governing bodies, providing input on the feasibility and impact of proposed rule changes. They also collaborate with players at various levels to ensure that new equipment designs meet the needs and preferences of those who use them.
How do manufacturers contribute to lacrosse equipment evolution?
- Investing in research and development for new materials and designs
- Conducting extensive testing to ensure safety and performance
- Gathering feedback from players at all levels of the sport
- Educating players and coaches about new equipment features and regulations
This collaborative approach helps ensure that as equipment regulations evolve, players have access to high-quality options that meet all necessary standards while still allowing for individual preferences and playing styles.
The Impact of Equipment Regulations on Player Development
Equipment regulations, particularly those related to lacrosse heads, can have a significant impact on player development. As players progress from youth to high school to college levels, they may need to adapt to different equipment specifications. This adaptation process can influence skill development, playing style, and even position specialization.
For example, the wider heads required in college play may encourage different shooting techniques or change how players approach ball control and cradling. Coaches and players need to be aware of these potential impacts and adjust training and development programs accordingly.
How do equipment changes affect player development?
- May require adjustments in fundamental techniques
- Can influence position-specific skills and strategies
- Might affect player specialization at different levels of play
- Could impact the transition between different levels of competition
Understanding these potential impacts can help players, coaches, and parents make informed decisions about equipment choices and skill development focus areas.
The Future of Lacrosse Equipment Regulations
As lacrosse continues to grow in popularity and evolve as a sport, it’s likely that equipment regulations will continue to be refined and updated. While it’s impossible to predict exactly what future changes might entail, there are several areas where we might see developments:
- Further standardization across different levels of play
- Increased focus on player safety, potentially leading to new protective equipment requirements
- Adoption of new materials or manufacturing techniques for sticks and heads
- Potential changes to ball specifications to complement stick regulations
Players, coaches, and equipment manufacturers will need to stay informed about these potential changes and be prepared to adapt as the sport continues to evolve.
Conclusion: Embracing Change in Lacrosse Equipment
The evolution of lacrosse head regulations, from the significant NCAA changes in 2009/2010 to the current discussions about high school equipment, reflects the dynamic nature of the sport. While changes can be disruptive, they also present opportunities for innovation, skill development, and the overall growth of the game.
Whether you’re a player, coach, parent, or fan, staying informed about equipment regulations and trends is crucial. By understanding the reasons behind these changes and their potential impacts, you can better navigate the evolving landscape of lacrosse equipment and contribute to the ongoing development of this exciting sport.
Remember, at its core, lacrosse is about skill, strategy, and teamwork. While equipment plays a crucial role, it’s the players who truly bring the game to life. Embrace the changes, adapt your skills, and focus on becoming the best player you can be, regardless of the stick in your hands.
High School and College Heads
High School and College Heads | Universal Lacrosse Blog
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Back in the 2009/2010 season there was a MAJOR rule change that affected College Lacrosse across the board. All players were now required to use a new, wider shaped head making all of the previous models illegal to use for any NCAA game.
Since we have all come to be used to this now it doesn’t seem like that big of a deal, but back then it had everyone’s head spinning. Luckily manufacturers acted quickly and released college legal versions of heads so that players would be able to gear up in time for the season. Back then that switch wasn’t as easy as you might think. Stringers had to adjust to learn how to get the same pocket results but with much wider heads.
Now that some of these college rules are starting to trickle down into the younger play levels, a question popped into our heads here at Universal Lacrosse.
What would happen if all High School spec heads became outlawed in lacrosse? What if regardless of age, whether you’re a young gun or a rising vet, you just couldn’t use any of the HS heads?
At first I think this would cause a serious uproar in the lax community. People would freak out! The manufacturers would basically have to stop any future production of these heads and any retailers would probably be out of luck with their current stock. As for the players themselves, every one of them would have to go out and buy a new head just be able to step on the field, no matter the age group or division.
Even though this hasn’t happened yet we are already seeing a trend in the older High School players. A good amount of them have already made the switch to Collegiate legal heads in order to get used to the feel of them and to prepare to make the next step into Collegiate level play.
I’m 150% behind this idea! If you are serious about making the next progression into College lacrosse why wouldn’t you want to get ready for it in any way possible, including the equipment you use! Trust me, it will make your transition that much easier.
Some of our favorite College level heads are: STX Stallion U500, Maverik Optik U, Warrior Rabil 2X, Nike Lakota U, and the Brine RP3 X.
These heads are all perfect for an offensive player and they also have a HS version as well!
Now a big question with High School (HS) or Collegiate (X/U) heads is how it affects your performance. I’ve always believed that no matter what kind of head you use, you can get any kind of pocket you want. It doesn’t matter if it’s extremely wide or pinched, you can still produce the same results. It all comes down to stringing the head. You can’t usually use the same patterns on a College level head that you would use on a HS one. They are just too wide to get the same affect. You most definitely can get the same results but you just need to change things up!
We don’t know if HS heads will ever become illegal, but either way don’t worry to much because as long as you get ahead of the game you’ll be just fine.
IT’S ALL U
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Field/Equipment Requirements, Officiating Clarifications Lead High School Boys Lacrosse Rules Changes
NATIONAL FEDERATION OF STATE HIGH SCHOOL ASSOCIATIONS
NEWS RELEASE
Field/Equipment Requirements, Officiating Clarifications
Lead High School Boys Lacrosse Rules Changes
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: James Weaver
INDIANAPOLIS, IN (August 16, 2022) — The NFHS Boys Lacrosse Rules Committee has released rules changes for the 2023 season that address three major areas of the sport – field markings, equipment requirements and officiating.
A total of nine rules changes were recommended as the result of the committee’s annual rules meeting held July 16-18 at the Conrad Hotel in Indianapolis. The NFHS Board of Directors subsequently approved the changes to take effect next season.
“The committee continues to do excellent work in placing risk minimization at the forefront,” said James Weaver, NFHS director of sports and performing arts and liaison to the Boys Lacrosse Rules Committee. “One of the results from this year’s rules committee meeting is focused on ease of officiating and ensuring that change continued to provide a safer game. The rules changes that were passed were all thought out and will make for a better game for all involved.”
The first of two alterations affecting field markings is found in Rule 1-2-1 PENALTY, which now states that the home team will be assessed a delay-of-game penalty if the field does not have continuous sidelines and end lines, in addition to the center line.
The change is intended to maintain the integrity of the playing field and discourage schools from allowing other logos on the field – particularly large football field end zone logos – to create breakages in the lacrosse lines.
Revised dimensions for the table area and coaches’ area constitute the other update to the playing field for the upcoming year. In Rule 1-2-7, the two perpendicular lines that connect the sideline and the scorer’s table to form the table area boundaries will now be drawn 5 yards from the center line on each side rather than 10 yards. The coaches’ area, defined in Rule 1-2-8, will now extend 20 yards down the field parallel to the sideline instead of 15 yards. These new measurements standardize the high school boys lacrosse table area and coaches’ area with other rules codes including NFHS girls lacrosse and NCAA men’s lacrosse, and assist officials in managing substitutions.
Regarding equipment, a clause was added to Rule 1-7-1 that mandates the pocket/net of a player’s crosse will have “no holes or gaps larger than 1.
68 inches in diameter,” or roughly the size of the American golf ball. The rationale for this new language is to prevent the increased use of a stringing technique in the crosse pocket/net that allows players to trap the ball in the loosened mesh. Additionally, Rule 1-8 now states that crosses “shall not have protrusions or sharp edges” to counteract recent stick design innovations that could hook or catch on a player’s helmet and other equipment that may potentially cause injury.
Modern developments in lacrosse shoe manufacturing allowed the committee to make a significant simplification within Rule 1-9-1g. Previously, the rule laid out a detailed list of criteria for appropriate lacrosse shoes, ranging from acceptable sole materials to removable and non-removable cleat measurements. The simplified version now reads: “shoes shall be worn which are designed for the sport of lacrosse,” while continuing to disallow metal spikes.
Headlining the officiating section of the rules changes are the revamped EXCEPTIONS to Rule 4-3-1, which provide better clarity on the situations where a faceoff does not take place at midfield to start a new period or following a goal.
Those four exceptions include:
1.) a player-advantage or a flag down creating a player-advantage;
2.) a player or team commits a foul before any faceoff;
3.) a player at any faceoff delays resumption of play;
4.) a player moves the crosse or body after “set” is said gaining an advantage.
Rule 4-24-1 and Rule 4-24-8 were edited to give a more concrete explanation of how a goalkeeper should be viewed when away from the crease and outside the scrimmage area. Rule 4-24-1 now specifies that when outside of the crease, a goalkeeper will be treated the same as a field player regarding game stoppages caused by injury or loss of mandatory personal equipment. According to the new language in Rule 4-24-8, play will only be stopped if a goalkeeper’s stick or any piece of mandatory goalkeeper equipment becomes broken while the goalkeeper is in the crease.
To assist officials in their challenge to monitor penalty time expirations and player re-entry while conducting a faceoff, a new article has been written into Rule 7-2.
This addition, marked as Rule 7-2h, mandates that penalty time will start with the whistle resuming play after the penalty is administered and that, if any time remains on a non-releasable penalty after a goal is scored, the earliest the penalty will release is after the ensuing faceoff has been completed.
Finally, a slight alteration to Rule 6-10-2 notes that, following a stalling warning, the team that was given the warning will not receive a stalling infraction if the ball leaves the goal area as the result of a shot attempt, or if the ball is touched by the defending team. Previously, the rule was written to only include the offending team’s shots on goal.
A complete listing of the boys lacrosse rules changes will be available on the NFHS website at www.nfhs.org. Click on “Activities & Sports” at the top of the home page and select “Lacrosse-Boys.”
According to the most recent NFHS High School Athletics Participation Survey, 113,702 boys participate in lacrosse in 3,026 high schools across the country.
Canadian Symbols (list with images)
Like all other countries, Canada, located in North America, recognizes a number of important symbols to represent itself as a country and nation. Some symbols are quite unique and famous, while others are less common.
Although there are hundreds of Canadian symbols, here is a brief overview of a few of the most famous official and unofficial Canadian emblems that are known throughout the world. In recent years, several of these symbols have been officially adopted by the Canadian government and declared official symbols of Canada. 9Canada
Canada National Currency: 900 10 Canadian dollar
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The National Flag of Canada
The National Flag of Canada, also known as the Maple Leaf Flag, consists of a white square in the center of a red field with a stylized maple leaf in the center. This is the current flag of the country, which was approved in 1965 after months of design debate.
There is a lot of symbolism in the colors and design of the Canadian flag.
- The two red stripes on either side of the white square symbolize prosperity and hope.
- White color symbolizes the impartiality of the nation, as well as calmness and peace.
- The maple leaf in the center of the white square has eleven dots and symbolizes the cultural heritage and natural resources within Canada.
Although there are no official laws on the use of the national flag, Canadian Heritage has developed a number of guidelines for displaying it, both on its own and with other flags.
Canadian coat of arms
Canada has one of the most complex coats of arms, consisting of many elements.
Here’s what they stand for:
- Shield : This symbolizes the origin of the country, depicting the royal Scottish lion, the three lions of England, the Irish harp of Tara and the Fleur-de-Lys Each of these nations plays an important role in the settlement of Canada.
- Supporters: Supporters on either side of the coat of arms – a lion and a unicorn holding two banners – represent the main founding peoples who played a role in establishing the customs and laws of Canada.
- Flower Emblems: These are located at the base and associated with the Canadian monarchy.
- Crown: Located at the top of the coat of arms, the crown indicates the monarch as head of state.
- Maple Leaf: An authentic symbol of Canada, Maple Leaf represents tolerance, peace and unity.
- Crest: Lion with a crown on his head and a maple leaf in his right paw is a symbol of courage and valor, denoting the sovereignty of the country.
Canadian Crown
The Royal Crown of Canada has been the national symbol of Canada for over 400 years, representing the government, legislature, parliament, police, courts and military. Canada, since Confederation in 1867 during the reign of Queen Victoria, is a constitutional monarchy represented by a royal crown.
Poutine
Canadian Poutine
Poutine is a Canadian dish that includes cream cheese and French fries with thick brown chicken gravy. The dish originated in the province of Quebec and first appeared in rural eateries. For many years it was ridiculed and perceived negatively, but over time it gradually became the quintessence of Quebec culture. In fact, people call it “Quebec in Quebec.bowl”.
Today, Poutine is no longer ridiculed and is usually presented as the national dish of Canada, symbolizing the cuisine and culture of the country. It is a favorite dish of many people, it can even be found in well-known chains fast food like Burger King and McDonalds.
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See also: Bees – Symbolism and Meaning
Beaver
The beaver was an important part of Canadian identity long before it was given official national emblem status in 1975. In the 1600s and 1700s, beavers were the country’s main income attraction, and during this time there was a popular demand for fur hats, which required beaver pelts. As the demand for hats grew, so did the demand for skins, and this trade proved so profitable that Canadians felt it necessary to pay tribute to the animal.
The beaver was included in the coat of arms of Canada, and even a coin was created known as the “bucks”, the value of which was equal to the value of the skin of one male beaver. Today, the beaver is one of the country’s most important and revered official symbols, without which it is said that Canada would not exist at all.
See also: Megingjörð – Thor’s Power Belt
Maple Leaf Tartan
Designed by David Weiser in 1964 in honor of Canada’s new flag, the Maple Leaf Tartan has been one of the country’s official national emblems since 2011.
The tartan has four colors that symbolize the life cycle of the maple leaf as it passes through the seasons. The color of the leaf changes from green in spring to gold in early autumn, to red in early winter, and finally to red. After falling, it turns brown.
Canadians proudly wore the maple leaf tartan for decades before it was named a national symbol. It is one of the most visible expressions of the Culture and Heritage of Scotland and as an official symbol, highlights the significant contribution that the Scots made to the founding of Canada.
Maple leaf and tree
There are more than 100 species of maple trees in the world, 10 of which are found in Canada. The maple leaf is very closely associated with Canada and featured on the national flag, but the tree itself was not officially recognized as the country’s official arboretum until 1996 years old
The maple leaf has been a staple food of the Canadian people for decades, and its sap has been used for cooking and other essential foods.
Each spring, the leaves were harvested and became an important part of various culinary recipes. Now it symbolizes endurance and strength and is an essential element of the Canadian flag. It is one of the most widely recognized national symbols of Canada and was added to the Canadian coat of arms in 1921.
Canadian Horse
In 1902, the Canadian Horse was declared a national breed by the Parliament of Canada, but it was not until May 2002 that it was recognized as the national horse of Canada. The origin of the horse dates back to 1665 when the King of France sent many horses from his royal stables to New France.
Breton and Norman horses were of mixed ancestry, including Barb, Arabian and Andalusian horses, and for a century the horse population in New France continued to develop in isolation from other horse breeds. As a result, a new breed appeared – the Canadian horse, known for its strength and endurance, intelligence, good disposition and stamina.
In the 19th century, the Canadian horse became endangered, and efforts were made in the late 1800s and into the 20th century to preserve this unique animal./cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/60794897/LXM18_PENN_037_.0.jpg)
Turtle
The turtle is a very important symbol in the culture of the indigenous people of Canada. According to some First Nations stories (stories told by the natives of Canada), she is the foundation upon which the earth was built. Some versions of the Earth Diver myth say that the Earth formed on the back of a turtle and became known as “Turtle Island” – the name given to North America today.
In Canadian culture, turtles are associated with stability and longevity, as well as being docile, wise and patient creatures. There are about 12 different species of tortoises across Canada that are currently endangered and protected by the Canadian Conservation Organization.
Enchanted Owl
Enchanted Owl. Via. National Gallery of Canada
The Enchanted Owl is a painting by Kenojuak Ashevak, the first Inuit woman to have her work featured on a Canadian postage stamp in 1960 AD This was the time when Inuit art was becoming extremely popular in Canada.
The painting depicts a stylized snowy owl with long feathers and a spotted body. The shape of the owl’s feathers, the details on its body and the emotions in its eyes are very expressive and always attract the attention of viewers. This painting has become popular throughout the country and is now a well-known Canadian symbol that is reproduced in many publications and featured on the 100th Anniversary Northwest Territories six-cent postage stamp.
Hockey
Canada has two national sports – ice hockey in winter and lacrosse in summer. However, of the two sports, ice hockey is the sport for which Canada is best known, and is often considered Canada’s greatest contribution to world sport. This is because ice hockey originated in Canada and Canadians consider the game to be theirs. Ice hockey remains the most watched, played and most successful sport in Canada.
Brief
Many of the Canadian characters we have mentioned in this article are known all over the world and often appear in a variety of contexts.
Some of them, such as the enchanted owl, are reproduced daily in publications, on stamps, coins or in the fashion world. They truly represent what it means to be Canadian and together they highlight the culture, heritage, values and resources of the Canadian people.
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