Shooting space lacrosse. Understanding Shooting Space and Checking Rules in Girls Lacrosse: A Comprehensive Guide

What are the key aspects of shooting space in lacrosse. How do checking rules work in girls lacrosse. Why are these rules important for player safety. What penalties are associated with shooting space violations. How do shooting space and checking rules differ from other sports.

Table of Contents

The Fundamentals of Shooting Space in Lacrosse

Shooting space is a crucial concept in girls lacrosse that prioritizes player safety. This rule prevents defenders from positioning themselves in a way that puts them at risk of being hit by a shot. Understanding the intricacies of this rule is essential for players, coaches, and spectators alike.

The shooting space rule applies when a defender moves into a dangerous position within the 8-meter arc while an offensive player is preparing to shoot. This creates a potentially hazardous situation where the defender could be struck by the ball if the shot is taken.

Key Elements of Shooting Space

Applies within the 8-meter arc
Involves defender positioning
Occurs when an offensive player is in shooting motion
Aims to prevent injuries from shots

Why is the shooting space rule so important? It serves multiple purposes:

Protects defenders from potential injuries
Encourages safer defensive positioning
Promotes offensive play and scoring opportunities
Teaches players spatial awareness on the field

Decoding the Checking Rules in Girls Lacrosse

Checking, the act of using a stick to dislodge the ball from an opponent’s possession, is a fundamental skill in lacrosse. However, in girls lacrosse, checking rules are designed to minimize the risk of injury while still allowing for competitive play.

How do checking rules differ in girls lacrosse compared to boys lacrosse? In girls lacrosse, checking is more controlled and restricted. Players must be mindful of their stick placement and the force they use when attempting to check an opponent’s stick.

Key Aspects of Checking in Girls Lacrosse

Checks must be controlled and directed away from the head
Only the stick and crosse can be checked, not the body
Checks should not be aggressive or reckless
Players must maintain a safe distance from opponents’ heads

Are there different levels of checking allowed based on age or skill level? Yes, many youth leagues implement modified checking rules to further enhance safety:

No checking (for younger players)
Modified checking (stick checks below shoulder level)
Full checking (for high school and above, with restrictions)

The Intersection of Safety and Strategy in Lacrosse Rules

Both the shooting space and checking rules in girls lacrosse exemplify the sport’s commitment to player safety. These regulations not only protect athletes from potential injuries but also shape the strategic elements of the game.

How do these safety-focused rules impact gameplay? They encourage players to develop skills that prioritize control, precision, and spatial awareness. Defenders must learn to position themselves effectively without entering the shooting space, while attackers must master accurate shooting techniques to navigate these defensive formations.

Strategic Considerations

Defensive positioning to avoid shooting space violations
Offensive maneuvers to draw shooting space fouls
Controlled checking techniques to gain possession legally
Communication among teammates to maintain proper spacing

Penalties and Consequences for Rule Violations

Understanding the penalties associated with shooting space and checking violations is crucial for players and coaches. These consequences reinforce the importance of adhering to the rules and maintaining safe play.

What happens when a shooting space violation occurs? Typically, the offensive team is awarded a free position shot from the 8-meter arc. This creates a significant scoring opportunity and serves as a deterrent for defenders who might be tempted to enter the shooting space.

Common Penalties in Girls Lacrosse

Free position shots for shooting space violations
Yellow cards for dangerous checks or repeated fouls
Red cards for severe infractions or accumulation of yellow cards
Team penalties resulting in playing short-handed

How do officials determine the severity of a checking violation? Referees consider factors such as:

Force of the check
Location of contact
Player’s intent and control
Potential for injury

Comparing Lacrosse Safety Rules to Other Sports

The emphasis on player safety in girls lacrosse through rules like shooting space and controlled checking is notable when compared to other sports. This focus reflects a broader trend in youth and amateur athletics towards minimizing injury risks while maintaining the essence of competition.

How do lacrosse safety rules compare to those in other contact sports? While many sports have implemented measures to protect players, lacrosse’s approach is particularly proactive:

Safety Rule Comparisons

Soccer: Similar “dangerous play” rules, but less emphasis on spatial restrictions
Basketball: Contact rules focus more on fair play than explicit safety measures
Field Hockey: Shares some similarities in stick-checking restrictions
Ice Hockey: Generally allows more physical contact and risk-taking

Evolution of Lacrosse Rules and Future Considerations

The rules governing shooting space and checking in girls lacrosse have evolved over time, reflecting changing attitudes towards player safety and the sport’s growing popularity. As lacrosse continues to develop, it’s likely that these rules will undergo further refinement.

What factors might influence future changes to lacrosse rules? Several considerations could play a role:

Advances in protective equipment technology
Emerging research on sports-related injuries
Changes in playing styles and strategies
Feedback from players, coaches, and officials

Potential Areas for Rule Evolution

Fine-tuning the definition of shooting space
Adjusting checking rules for different age groups
Implementing new penalty structures
Incorporating video review for controversial calls

Mastering the Nuances: Tips for Players and Coaches

For players and coaches looking to excel within the framework of shooting space and checking rules, developing a deep understanding of these regulations is essential. By mastering the nuances of these rules, teams can gain a competitive edge while prioritizing safety.

How can players improve their awareness of shooting space? Practice drills focusing on spatial awareness and defensive positioning can help players internalize the boundaries of the shooting space. Coaches can implement exercises that simulate game situations, allowing defenders to make quick decisions about their positioning relative to attackers.

Drills to Enhance Rule Comprehension

Shooting space recognition exercises
Controlled checking practice sessions
Situational gameplay scenarios
Video analysis of professional games

What strategies can coaches employ to teach effective checking techniques? Emphasizing proper form and control is crucial. Coaches should focus on:

Proper stick grip and positioning
Timing and anticipation of opponent movements
Controlled motions to avoid excessive force
Alternative defensive tactics to complement checking

The Role of Officials in Enforcing Safety Rules

Referees play a critical role in maintaining the balance between competitive play and player safety in girls lacrosse. Their interpretation and enforcement of shooting space and checking rules significantly impact the flow and fairness of the game.

How do officials prepare to make split-second decisions on complex rules? Extensive training and experience are essential. Officials undergo rigorous certification processes that include:

Referee Training Components

Rule book study and examinations
On-field practical assessments
Ongoing education on rule changes
Mentorship programs with experienced officials

What challenges do referees face when enforcing shooting space and checking rules? Several factors can complicate decision-making:

Speed of play and quick transitions
Multiple players in close proximity
Varying skill levels across different leagues
Pressure from coaches, players, and spectators

By understanding the complexities of officiating, players and coaches can develop a more nuanced appreciation for the rules and their enforcement.

Embracing Safety Without Sacrificing Competition

The shooting space and checking rules in girls lacrosse exemplify a broader philosophy in youth sports: prioritizing player safety without diminishing the competitive spirit of the game. This approach has far-reaching implications for player development, team dynamics, and the overall growth of the sport.

How does emphasizing safety impact player development? By focusing on controlled play and spatial awareness, these rules encourage players to develop:

Finer stick skills and ball control
Strategic thinking and field vision
Teamwork and communication
Respect for opponents and the game itself

What long-term benefits can result from this safety-focused approach? Several positive outcomes may emerge:

Reduced injury rates and longer playing careers
Increased participation across all age groups
Enhanced public perception of the sport
Development of transferable skills for other sports and activities

As girls lacrosse continues to grow in popularity, the balance between safety and competition will remain a central topic of discussion. By embracing these principles, the sport can foster a positive environment that encourages skill development, fair play, and long-term participation.

Understanding the intricacies of shooting space and checking rules is essential for anyone involved in girls lacrosse. These regulations not only protect players but also shape the strategic landscape of the game. As the sport evolves, so too will the interpretation and application of these rules, always with an eye towards maintaining the delicate balance between safety and competitive spirit.

Rules for Players and Parents

Girls High School Lacrosse Rules – Note – There are rule changes every year so some videos and information may have some parts not up to the new rules.

2022 Rule Changes

US Lacrosse Overview – includes equipment requirements

Lacrosse 101 – a few basic rules

Must Know

8 and 12 meter arc – These are the curved lines in front of the goal (Both open to scoring area penalties). Most penalties inside “The 8” get a free position shot at the 8.

Shooting Space ( Obstruction to Goal) – The defense can not be in the lane to goal (more than a stick length away) when the offensive player is looking to shoot.

Shooting Space 1 – 1:28 min Shooting Space 2 – 9:58 min

Basic Rules – 10 Important Rules

3 – Second Rule – Unique to Girls Lacrosse – The defense must track an offensive player or be out of the 8 meter area within 3 seconds. – penalty – 4 meters behind where the ball is – not a free position

Backing Up Shots – On a shot, the player closest to where it goes out, when it goes out, gets the ball where it went out.

It’s a DRAW not a Face off

Sphere Violation – Stick too close to the head – The Defenders Stick must be 12″ away from the opponents head

Dangerous check – Aggressive, uncontrolled on illegal contact (not needed with stick)

Dangerous Propel – When the offensive player shoots into other players, including players in shooting space.

Yellow Card

A yellow card MUST be given for following fouls = 2 minutes at the timers table.

1. Check to the head – a player must not hit an opponent on a head and/or cause a stick to head contact.

2. Swipe – a player must not check in uncontrolled and reckless manner (e. g. if the stick hits the ground at the end of the check). The check needs not to hit either the opponent nor her stick to be called swipe and carded.

3. Dangerous propel– a shot must not hit and/or endanger another player.

4. Dangerous shot – a player must not shoot with the intent to hit a goalie.

5. Dangerous follow through – a players stick must not hit an opponent in an aftermath of a shot. That is as long as the defender has been in a legal defensive position and has not moved towards the stick.

Red Cards – excessive yellow card infractions and more = game ejection + miss the next game. A 2 minute penalty is served

TEAM CARDS – After a team receives 3 cards (yellow or red), they play down a player after each additional card (on the 4th card).

How Do the Shooting Space and Checking Rules Work in Girls Lacrosse?

Dear Sports Fan,

I’ve played on a U-14 girls lacrosse team for 2 years, but I’ve never really understood rules on shooting space, and checking (un-modified), mind helping me out?

Thanks,
Alana

Dear Alana,

Great questions! It’s kind of thrilling to know that the feeling, familiar to many viewers, of watching a sport and being unclear about the rules is even a feeling some of the players have! There’s nothing to be ashamed of — even professional athletes are sometimes confused about the rules, like Donovan McNabb, a quarterback in the NFL who famously did not try very hard at the end of overtime because he thought that if the game was tied at the end of one overtime, they would just play another instead of the game ending in a tie… which it does.

Anyway, I did some research on the two rules you asked about and there is a theme that runs through both rules. Both rules are about keeping players safe. The shooting space rule is an attempt to avoid having players put themselves in danger and the checking rule is put in place to keep players from endangering each other. Let’s dig into them.

A shooting space foul according to westportpal.org is called when “a defender moves in at a bad angle on the offender while shooting in the 8 meter arc. This is a dangerous play by the defender.” Well okay, what is a bad angle? Let’s go to Wikipedia which clears it up a bit. Wikipedia explains that this bad angle is one that “makes the defender at risk of being hit by the ball if the offender were to shoot.” Basically, it is illegal for a player to put themselves in a situation that makes them very likely to be hurt. Other sports have similar “dangerous play” rules. In most soccer leagues, there is a rule against any play that endangers the person doing it or anyone else on the field. This is most often applied when a player lies on top of the ball which prevents an opponent from “playing the ball [for] fear of injuring the player lying on top of the ball.” Ice hockey seems to be governed by the exact opposite spirit. Players who endanger themselves or their teammates are open to being hit with pucks, sticks, shoulders, fists, etc. in all sorts of completely legal ways. Hockey players who are hurt in these situations are often also subjected to fierce criticism in the media for not protecting themselves.

If lacrosse goes to such a length to prevent players putting themselves at risk for injury, you would imagine they are at least as concerned with players endangering each other. They are! There are a set of rules that control how a player is allowed to check (try to get the ball from) another player. A player can only use the side of their stick, not the flat part of the head. Players can not wind up to check another player, instead checking should be done with “controlled, short, quick taps. ” The last bit, and this is probably the hardest to judge and control is that a player “may only check if the check is directed away from the ball carrier’s head.” This all makes sense if the goal is to avoid injury. Allowing players to wind up would surely lead to sticks being swung much harder at one another. Mandating that checks only be directed away from the body of the person being checked means that even if someone were to really swing their stick with a lot of force, that force would carry their stick, their opponents stick, and the ball safely away from the person being checked as opposed to right into them.

Modified checking which you mention in your question, is a rule used usually with younger kids that makes it illegal to attempt a check at head level. This seems moderately wise if you’re going to give 12 year-olds weapons. The advantage that this creates for the offensive player is offset by requiring them to pass or shoot the ball within three seconds if a defender is covering them closely enough that they could check them if it weren’t for the modified checking rule.

Good luck playing! Remember to check with the side of your stick away from your opponent’s head. And don’t try to block a shot within 8 meters of the goal!

Thanks for reading,
Ezra Fischer

Author Ezra FischerPosted on May 9, 2013Categories Other Sports, Understanding SportsTags lacrosse, rules, youth

RAPS Tactical Lacrosse Stick – for all types of pipes

245.90(€

Fab Defense Tactical RAPS ((Rapid Adjustable Precision Stock) – Designed by Operations Staff for Operations Staff! A concentrate of everything you would expect from a modern tactical stock: cheek control and grip length are all accessible with one hand.

Article: ZFI_FAB_RAPS
Categories: AR15 and AR10 Parts, FAB DEFENSE Promotions, MOSSBERG Parts
Tags: butt, butt, Fab Defense, RAPS

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Description

Fab Defense Tactical RAPS – (Rapid Adjustable Precision Stock) Designed by Operations for Operations! A concentrate of everything you’d expect from a modern tactical stock: one-handed cheekpiece and stock length control (adjustment is optimal for shooters of all sizes, regardless of shooting position).

Fiberglass reinforced polymer shell with textured rubber butt plate (adjustable by 10mm) for optimal comfort and reduced recoil. 2 slots allow you to integrate a combat belt (right and left).

Destination:

Any MIL-SPEC or COMMERCIAL

plug

Includes Picatinny rail to add one leg

Product points:

Polymer and glass fiber production – designed for intensive use
One-step adjustable cheek and depth , one-handed (ILatch™ System)
Rubber butt pad for added comfort – adjustable (range 10 mm)
Setting memory: LOP always returns to the same length after the first adjustment
2 slots (right and left) for integrating a combat belt (not included)

Adjustment range:

LOP (pull length): 32mm (1.26″)
LOP on ARIO: 378 mm to 410 mm (14. 8″ – 16.14″)
Cheek Support: 42mm (1.65″)
Plate: 10mm

Supplied with adapters 03:

Mil-Spec M4 Tube
Universal Pipe (Commercial)
Rifle Length Receiver (AR10)

Product Data

Weight	620 gr
Width	42 mm
Height	152 mm
Length	277 mm
Expanded)	Height: 194mm / Length: 309mm

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Brand

AMAZING Defense

Gun Show Lacrosse Spring 2022

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You can see the exhibited products and sections of the exhibition below, in the “Additional Information” section. The full list of Gun Show Lacrosse Spring 2022 participants is posted on the official website of the exhibition and is constantly updated. You can also find exhibitors from the previous year there. The Gun Show Lacrosse Spring 2022 business program is usually published closer to the start of the event.