What are the key rules of women’s lacrosse. How does the game differ from men’s lacrosse. What equipment is required for women’s lacrosse. How are youth lacrosse rules modified for safety and skill development. What are the different levels of play in women’s youth lacrosse.
The Fundamentals of Women’s Lacrosse
Women’s lacrosse is a fast-paced and exciting sport that combines elements of strategy, skill, and athleticism. Unlike its male counterpart, women’s lacrosse has distinct rules and equipment requirements that set it apart. Understanding these fundamentals is crucial for players, coaches, and fans alike.
One of the most significant differences between men’s and women’s lacrosse is the level of physical contact allowed. Women’s lacrosse is primarily a non-contact sport, focusing more on stick skills, speed, and agility. This aspect of the game has led to unique rules and equipment designed to enhance player safety while maintaining the sport’s competitive nature.
USA Lacrosse Girls Rules: Stick Checking and Player Development
USA Lacrosse has implemented specific rules for girls’ lacrosse to promote player development and safety. These rules vary depending on the age and skill level of the players, with a particular focus on stick checking.
No Checking and Modified Checking
For players below the seventh grade, stick checking is not allowed. This rule aims to help beginners focus on mastering the fundamental skills of the game, such as passing, catching, footwork, positioning, and marking. By removing the advanced skill of stick checking, young players can build a solid foundation in the sport.
As players progress to the 7th and 8th grade levels, modified checking is introduced. This intermediate step allows players to check the stick only if it is below shoulder level, using a downward motion away from the opponent’s body. This gradual introduction of checking skills helps players develop proper techniques while encouraging good cradling and stick handling for attacking players.
Interpreting Stick-to-Stick Contact
It’s important to note that not all stick-to-stick contact is considered a violation of the no checking or modified checking rules. For instance, if a defender holds her stick in a good defensive position and an attacking player craddles into it, causing contact, this is not considered a stick check. Similarly, if a defender attempts to block or intercept a pass and the attacker makes contact while passing or catching, this is also not a violation.
Official Rules for Girls Youth Lacrosse: Levels and Age Groups
The Official Girls Youth rules, developed by the US Lacrosse Women’s Division and ratified by the US Lacrosse Youth Council, aim to standardize youth rules across the United States. These rules are designed to introduce young players to the sport, familiarizing them with terminology, field layout, playing positions, teamwork concepts, and essential skills.
Age Group Guidelines
- 6-8 years old (Under 9)
- 9-10 years old (Under 11)
- 11-12 years old (Under 13)
- 13-14 years old (Under 15)
Rule Levels
The girls’ youth rules are divided into three levels: A, B, and C. These levels accommodate different skill levels and age groups:
- Level C: Designed for beginning teams and players, allowing certain stick modifications to facilitate throwing and catching.
- Level B: An intermediate level that still prohibits checking but requires more standard equipment.
- Level A: The most advanced level, allowing modified checking and requiring the use of regulation crosse and pocket.
For official US Lacrosse-sponsored tournaments, such as the US Lacrosse Youth Festival, specific age and rule levels are applied: Under 13 uses Level B rules, while Under 15 uses Level A rules.
Equipment Requirements in Women’s Lacrosse
The equipment used in women’s lacrosse is designed to ensure player safety while maintaining the unique characteristics of the sport. Let’s explore the essential equipment requirements for different levels of play.
Goals
Regulation lacrosse goal cages are typically used for outdoor play. However, smaller cages (similar to street hockey goals) may be used for indoor play and Level C outdoor games. This flexibility allows for adaptability to different playing environments and skill levels.
Balls
Players may use either a regulation ball or a “soft” ball, depending on the level of play and player experience. For new or beginner programs, it’s highly recommended to use a soft ball until players have developed their throwing and catching skills. The soft ball should be approximately the same size as a regulation ball. For indoor play, a “no bounce” ball is recommended to prevent excessive bouncing on hard surfaces.
Sticks (Crosses)
The type of stick allowed varies based on the level of play:
- Level C: Players may use a youth stick with mesh or traditional stringing, or a regulation women’s crosse with a modified pocket. In a modified pocket, only half the ball may fall below the bottom of the sidewall.
- Level B: Players must use a regulation women’s crosse with either a regular or modified pocket.
- Level A: Players must use a regulation women’s crosse with a regular pocket.
Protective Equipment
Safety is paramount in women’s lacrosse, and certain protective equipment is mandatory across all levels:
- Mouthguards
- Eyewear
Additional protective gear is also permitted or required:
- Close-fitting gloves are allowed
- Soft headgear is permitted
- Hard helmets are only allowed for goalkeepers
Goalkeeper Equipment
Goalkeepers have additional protective equipment requirements:
- Helmet with face mask
- Separate throat protector
- Chest protector
- Goalie gloves
- Leg padding on the shins and thighs
- Abdominal protection (recommended)
The Importance of Proper Officiating in Youth Lacrosse
Ensuring fair play and adherence to the rules is crucial in youth lacrosse. The presence of qualified umpires is essential for maintaining the integrity of the game and promoting player safety.
For Level C games, it is strongly recommended that at least one qualified umpire be assigned. For Level A and B games, two qualified umpires should be present. This increased officiating presence at higher levels reflects the more complex rules and potentially more competitive nature of the games.
Transitioning Between Levels: Skill Development and Rule Progression
The progression from Level C to Level A in youth lacrosse is designed to gradually introduce more complex rules and techniques as players develop their skills. This structured approach allows young athletes to build a strong foundation in the sport before advancing to more challenging aspects of the game.
From Level C to Level B
As players move from Level C to Level B, they transition from using modified sticks to regulation women’s crosses. This change requires players to refine their stick skills and adapt to the standard equipment used in higher levels of play. While checking is still not allowed at this level, players begin to focus more on positioning and defensive techniques that will prepare them for the introduction of modified checking in Level A.
From Level B to Level A
The transition from Level B to Level A marks a significant step in a player’s development. At this stage, modified checking is introduced, allowing players to engage in more advanced defensive techniques. This progression requires players to combine their fundamental skills with new tactical knowledge, enhancing their overall understanding and execution of the game.
The Role of Coaches in Implementing Youth Lacrosse Rules
Coaches play a crucial role in implementing and enforcing youth lacrosse rules. Their understanding and adherence to these regulations are essential for player development and safety.
Teaching Proper Techniques
Coaches must focus on teaching proper techniques that align with the rules of each level. For example, when introducing modified checking at Level A, coaches should emphasize the correct form and timing to ensure players are executing checks safely and within the rules.
Emphasizing Sportsmanship
Beyond teaching the technical aspects of the game, coaches have a responsibility to instill values of sportsmanship and fair play. This includes respecting officials’ decisions, treating opponents with respect, and maintaining a positive attitude regardless of the game’s outcome.
Adapting to Rule Changes
As players progress through different levels, coaches must stay informed about rule changes and adapt their teaching methods accordingly. This may involve adjusting practice drills, game strategies, and player positions to align with new regulations.
The Impact of Youth Rules on Long-term Player Development
The structured approach to youth lacrosse rules has a significant impact on long-term player development. By focusing on fundamental skills at lower levels and gradually introducing more complex techniques, players are better prepared for advanced play as they progress in the sport.
Building a Strong Foundation
The emphasis on basic skills such as passing, catching, and positioning at the lower levels helps players develop a strong foundation. This focus on fundamentals ensures that players have a solid skill set to build upon as they advance to higher levels of play.
Gradual Introduction of Complexity
The progressive introduction of more complex rules and techniques, such as modified checking, allows players to adapt to new challenges at a pace that matches their physical and cognitive development. This gradual approach helps prevent overwhelming young players and reduces the risk of developing bad habits or improper techniques.
Fostering a Love for the Game
By tailoring the rules to different age groups and skill levels, youth lacrosse creates an environment where players can enjoy the sport while learning. This positive experience at the youth level can foster a lifelong love for lacrosse, encouraging players to continue with the sport as they grow older.
Adapting Women’s Lacrosse Rules for Different Playing Environments
While the core rules of women’s lacrosse remain consistent, there are some adaptations made for different playing environments. These modifications ensure that the game can be played safely and effectively in various settings.
Indoor Lacrosse Adaptations
When playing indoors, certain adjustments are made to accommodate the different surface and space constraints:
- Smaller goals may be used, similar to street hockey cages
- A “no bounce” ball is recommended to prevent excessive bouncing on hard indoor surfaces
- Field dimensions may be adjusted based on available space
Outdoor Variations
Outdoor play may also require some adaptations, particularly at the lower levels:
- Level C games may use smaller goals even when played outdoors
- Field size can be adjusted based on the age group and available space
- Soft balls may be used for younger players or beginners to facilitate learning
These adaptations allow for greater flexibility in organizing games and practices, making the sport more accessible to a wider range of players and communities.
USA Lacrosse Girls Rules
Guidance — No Checking/Modified Checking
US Lacrosse is attempting to send a consistent message regarding checking to youth players, whether they are using the regular women’s lacrosse rules or following the girls’ rules. Players below the seventh grade level should not be stick checking. It is the hope of the Rules Committee that mandating no checking will allow the beginning player to work on the basic fundamentals of the game – passing, catching, footwork, proper positioning, and marking – before they are introduced to the more advanced skill of stick checking.
Once players have mastered the basic fundamentals, coaches will want to introduce stick checking. Players on 7th and 8th grade teams will be allowed to use modified checking as an intermediate step towards full checking. Modified checking is defined as checking the stick if it is below shoulder level, using a downward motion away from the other player’s body.
Use of modified checking will allow the older youth player to learn proper checking skills, while at the same time encouraging good cradling and stick handling skills for the attack player. Umpires and coaches should strictly enforce this rule, never allowing checks near a player’s head or face.
It should be noted that stick-to-stick contact is not necessarily a violation of the no checking/modified checking rule. A defender who is holding her stick in good defensive position may force the attack player to cradle into her stick causing contact. This is not considered a stick check, as the attack player initiated the contact, not the defender. A similar situation would exist when the defender puts her stick up in an attempt to block or intercept a pass and the attacker makes contact while in the act of passing or catching the ball.
Please note that it will be left to individual school districts, counties, and leagues to decide what they consider a seventh grade team and an eighth grade team.
Official Rules for Girls Youth Lacrosse
The purpose of the Official Girls Youth rules is to familiarize young players with the sport of women’s lacrosse by introducing them to the terms, the field, the playing positions, the concept of teamwork and the skills required to play the game safely and fairly. These rules were written by the US Lacrosse Women’s Division and ratified by the US Lacrosse Youth Council in an effort to standardize youth rules for girls throughout the United States. Youth leagues may decide on age level play that best suits their needs, within the following suggested guidelines: 6-8 year olds (Under 9), 9-10 year olds (Under 11), 11-12 year olds (Under 13), 13-14 year olds (Under 15).
The girls’ youth rules are divided by levels (A, B, and C). Beginning teams/players would be expected to use Level B or C rules, which do not allow checking and do allow certain stick modifications to make throwing and catching easier. Players would then progress to Level A rules which allow modified checking and require the use of a regulation crosse and pocket.
Any tournament play sponsored or sanctioned by US Lacrosse, such as the US Lacrosse Youth Festival, will use the following age and rule levels: Under 13 – Level B rules; Under 15 – Level A rules. Non-US Lacrosse sponsored tournaments should follow an age/rule level format and announce to participants prior to the tournament which level(s) (A,B,C) will be used at their event to avoid any confusion.
It is strongly recommended that at least one qualified umpire be assigned to Level C games, and two qualified umpires be assigned to Level A and B games.
Equipment
Goals – regulation lacrosse goal cages; smaller (street hockey type) cages may be used for indoor play and for Level C playing outdoors.
Ball – may use a regulation ball, or a “soft” ball. It is highly recommended that new or beginner programs use the soft ball until players have developed their throwing and catching skills. If a soft ball is used, it should be approximately the same size as a regulation ball.
A regulation ball may be used for indoor play, however a “no bounce” ball is recommended.
Sticks – Level C may use a youth stick with mesh or traditional stringing or regulation women’s crosse and may have a modified pocket. With a modified pocket, only half the ball may fall below the bottom of the sidewall. Level B must use a regulation women’s crosse with either a regular or modified pocket. Level A must use a regulation women’s crosse with regular pocket.
Protective equipment – mouthguards and eyewear are mandatory at all levels. Close fitting gloves are permitted, as is soft headgear; no hard helmets except the goalie. Goalie must wear helmet with face mask, separate throat protector, chest protector, goalie gloves, and leg padding on the shins and thighs. Protection for the abdominal area for goalies is strongly recommended. All protective devices used should be close fitting, padded where necessary, and not be of excessive weight.
Playing Area
Field Diagram:
There are no measured boundaries.
Official(s) decide on the boundaries. When playing indoors, play the rebound where possible.
Level A – desirable field length is 100 yds. between goal lines, 10 yds. behind each goal, and 70 yds. wide. Field should be marked according to US Lacrosse Women’s Rules including a restraining line. (See Rule 3, page 9.)
Level B – desirable field length is 90 yds. between goal lines, 10 yds. behind each goal, and 50 yds. wide. Field should be marked according to US Lacrosse Women’s Rules including a restraining line. (See Rule 3, page 9.)
Level C – desirable field length is 50 yds. between goal lines, 10 yds. behind each goal, and 25 yds. wide. Field markings should include two goal circles (radius 2m) with a goal line in each, two 8m arcs around each goal circle and a center line.
Start of the Game
The procedure for the start of the game/draw shall be the same as outlined in Rule 10 of the US Lacrosse Women’s Rules with the following modification: for all levels, a free position will be taken at the center by the team with fewer goals if a four or more goal differential exists.
When this occurs positioning for the draw will apply.
Start/Stop Play
All play is started and stopped with the whistle. All players must stop and stand when the whistle blows (to stop play). All may move again when the next whistle blows.
Scoring
A goal is scored when the ball passes completely over the goal line and into the goal cage. Scoring must be by an attacker’s crosse, and not off the body of an attack player. A goal may be scored off the defender’s body or crosse.
Substitution
Substitution is unlimited and the substitution procedure should be the same as outlined in Rule 9 of the US Lacrosse Women’s Rules, i.e. substitute any time during play, after goals, and at halftime.
Duration of Play
Level A – 25-minutes running time per half (maximum)
Level B – 25-minutes running time per half (maximum)
Level C – 20-minutes running time per half (maximum)
At all levels, the clock will be stopped on every whistle (to stop play) in the last two minutes of each helf.
Teams may choose to play four quarters, but total playing time should not exceed the maximum time for each level. The clock will stop on every whistle (to stop play) in the last minute of each quarter.
Fouls
Fouls shall be the same as those outlined in Rule 18 of the US Lacrosse Women’s Rules with the following modifications:
- No shooting on free positions (Level C). (Major Foul)
- No checking (Level B and C). (Major Foul)
- Modified checking only (see definitions) (Level A). (Major Foul)
- No holding the ball for more than 3 seconds when closely guarded/marked (see definitions) and the defense has both hands on her stick and is in position to legally check were checking allowed. (All levels). (Minor Foul)
Note: If the player with the ball takes the stick to the other side of her body and thus away from the defender making a legal check impossible, the 3-second count would be over.
If the defender adjusts her position to where a legal check could be made, the count starts again. If another teammate joins the defender and that second defender is in good position to check, the count starts again. The umpire will give an audible 3-second count. The purpose of this rule is to encourage good defensive positioning and to make the offensive player aware of her defender. The attack player must try to keep the stick away from the defender, and, if she does not she will be forced to pass or she will lose the ball. Even when the defender may not check, if she is in good defensive position she will force the attack player to pass. This will give her team a chance for a play on the ball either by interception, by blocking the attempted pass, or by forcing a bad pass and causing a ground ball.
Penalties for Fouls
The penalty for fouls is a free position with all players, including the offender, moving 4m away from the player with the ball. For specifics on major, minor, and goal circle fouls and carding, see Rule 19 (page 41) in the US Lacrosse Women’s Rules.
A 3-second violation is considered a minor foul with the closest defender to the ball carrier being awarded the ball. The only modification for these youth rules is in Level C, where all free positions are indirect (i.e., the player with the ball may never shoot directly from the free position).
Definition of Terms
Closely Guarded: Player with the ball has an opponent within a sticks length.
Free Position: Penalty awarded for a foul. Player who has been fouled gets the ball and all others must move 4m away.
Indirect Free Position: No shot on goal may be made until the player with the ball passes the ball to another player.
Modified Checking: Checking the stick only if it is below shoulder level. The check must be in a downward direction and away from the body.
Pass: Exchange of the ball through the air from one teammate’s crosse to another.
Possession: A player has the ball in their crosse.
Position to Check: Player has an opportunity to legally check the stick without fouling (the 3-second count starts when the umpire deems that the player with the ball could be checked legally if checking were permitted.
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Level A Specifics
- Eleven field players, one goal keeper.
- Field size: 100 yds. X 70 yds. is recommended.
- Regular field markings, including restraining line.
- Regular women’s crosse, regulation pocket.
- Modified checking only.
- 25-minute halves (max.), running time.
- May shoot from direct free positions.
Level B Specifics
- Eleven field players, one goal keeper.
- Field size: 90 yds. X 50 yds. is recommended.
- Regular field markings, including restraining line.
- Regular women’s crosse, modified pocket allowed.
- No checking.
- 25-minute halves (max.), running time.
- May shoot from direct free positions.
Level C Specifics
- Seven field players, use of a goal keeper is optional.
- Field size: 50 yds.
x 25 yds. is recommended. - 8m arc, no 12m fan, no restraining line, center line (no circle).
- Youth sticks (mesh allowed) or regular women’s crosse, modified pocket.
- No checking.
- 20-minute halves (max.), running time.
- May not shoot from any free position.
x 25 yds. is recommended.
These rules were written with the safety of all the players being of utmost importance. Youth lacrosse should be fun, challenging and safe. To that end, the umpires shall have the authority to penalize any foul, unsafe play, or unacceptable behavior not covered specifically in these rules. Play should be as continuous as possible, and any foul which does not gain an advantage for the offender or her team should result in a “held” whistle whenever possible.
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Whether you’re attack, midfield, defense, or goalie, your equipment can make or break the game. The right stick can make scoring, checking, and cradling easier. The right gloves improve your grip and help you avoid costly mistakes. For the goalie, the right pads mean safety in the crease.
MESH POCKETS ARE NOT ALLOWED.
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Uniforms and Equipment for Field Players
The head of the stick is basically triangular and is affixed to the handle in such a way that it is on the same plane as the handle (i.e., not at an angle). For the safety of all the players, the crosse must be free from all sharp or protruding parts or edges.
For information on goalie-specific equipment, see below.
Play will be restarted with a free position for the opponent.
On the word “ready” the players remain motionless until the whistle is blown, at which time they draw their crosses up and away from one another.
g., 2 points for a win, 1 point for a tie, and no points for a loss.
In these instances, time out is at the discretion of the umpire.
Any player that moves must return to her original position.
After any incident related to the ball, unless caused by a foul, when neither team has possession and two opposing players are equally near the ball (see Accident, interference, or other incident).
A free position will go to the opposing team at the spot where play was set to begin again. For breach of this rule simultaneously (Note to client: What does this mean?) the umpire will award a throw at the spot where play was to resume.
Play must not be restarted within 8-meters (18.8 yards) of the goal circle or within 4 meters (4.4 yards) of the agreed boundaries.
Major Fouls
If she is being double- or triple- teamed and she has no opportunity to shoot the goal, the call should not be made.
Penalty for a dangerous shot is a free position for the goalie.Lacrosse Rules For Beginners (Men’s, Women’s, Boys’ Rules)
If you’re reading this article, it probably means that you’d like to learn basic lacrosse rules for beginners.
To begin with, the game of Lacrosse is played among teams.
It involves the passing of a ball to fellow teammates, with the help of a customized stick, complete with a net/mesh-like material at the top.
However, the rules of this game differ from one league to another.
In this article, we will go through all the lacrosse rules for beginners that you need to know about before you play the game.
Want to know how to play lacrosse? Learn the rules below and choose your first lacrosse stick!
Basic Lacrosse Rules For Beginners
- The playing field of Lacrosse is normally 110 yards lengthwise with a width of 60 yards.
- The goals stand at opposite ends and they measure 6-ft by 6-ft. There’s usually a circular line of 18-ft diameter around it.
- Players aren’t allowed to score when within the circular line. Opponents can only reach the other team’s crease area via their stick.
- The midfield is marked with a line ( the midfield line).
- Each team on the lacrosse team should have 10 players (except for women). 4 of which play as defenders on the other half of the field. 3 take care of the remaining offensive 1/2, while the remaining 3 can play anywhere within the field.
- The playing time is divided into halves, then to form 4 quarters of 12 minutes. However, the college and the kids’ lacrosse might take a slightly longer time.
- When players commit fouls, they stay at the penalty box for around 1-3 minutes.
- Players aren’t allowed to touch their opponents, touch the ball or be on the offside. It’s considered a foul, which is punishable.
- The beginning of a game is marked by a face-off (for men lacrosse), where players from both teams lay their playing sticks horizontally, near the ball as they await the official whistle.
- Players have to compete to possess the ball once the whistle is blown. And once a team dominates the other and takes possession of the ball, they swiftly move towards the Middlefield line, as they attempt to reach their opponents’ goal to score.
- Teams have to change sides in between periods. And each team can only have 2 time-outs in each half.
- When a ball gets out of bounds, the game has to stop. The team whose player happens to be closest to the current location of the ball possesses it.
However, in case the ball didn’t go out of bounds because of a shot, the team that didn’t touch the ball can possess it.
Men’s Lacrosse Rules for Beginners
The general rules mentioned above also apply to the lacrosse men’s game.
However, there are a few additional rules and some specifics that you should know.
They include:
- Normally, the squads include 25-30 men.
- Players are allowed to body check only when the opponent owns the ball or at a distance of about 5 yards from the ball.
- Men are can wear more equipment during the game as injuries can occur during checking.
- Players can also stick check each other on the sticks or gloves, in an attempt of hitting the ball off or denying the other player the chance to hold the ball.
- Each player uses a different size of the stick, depending on their playing position. For instance, offensive players use shorter sticks, while the defenders and the goalkeepers use longer ones.
- The players in the Lacrosse men games use sticks with a finishing of mesh netting.
- The men’s team can contain only 10 players. 3 players for each of the field parts; defense, midfielder and the attacker, complete with 1 goalkeeper.
- They also apply a face-off at the beginning of the game as each team tries to gain control of the ball.
- Men play their lacrosse game in a field of 110*60 yards, which is around 30yards smaller than that of women.
For more detailed rules, check out the official NCAA Men’s Rules.
Women’s Lacrosse Rules for Beginners
Women’s and Men’s lacrosse rules have a lot of similarities.
But even though they share the basic rules, some regulations only apply for women teams, such as:
- Both body and stick checking that are aimed at hitting an opponent is prohibited in women’s lacrosse. Players committing this foul face a penalty.
- The women players don’t have a long list of gear requirements since injuries are often at the bare minimum.
- The sticks of the players are all similar in size, so players get to pick sticks randomly. It’s only the goalie who uses a longer stick.
- The Women’s lacrosse game uses sticks with the classic thick strings, tightly tied. They run end to end and don’t form pockets like the nets on the men’s lacrosse game.
- The players are allowed to cradle as a way of securing the ball within their sticks.
- The number of players in the women’s lacrosse team is normally 12. That’s 6 defensive players, 5 offensive players, and the goalie.
- The women’s team playing field is about 120* 70 yards. And they can even be as long as 140 yards.
- Women start the game by drawing a draw. Here, the ball is placed at the center and is thrown into the air at the sound of a whistle.
For the detailed version, check out the women’s official rules of the NCAA.
Lacrosse Boys 14U Rules for 2021
The Boys 14U rules include:
- The game involves 10v 10 players.
- Players can face-off, use normal stick and body checking, but shouldn’t participate in takeout checks.
- After a break, the game resumes only after the defensive players are around 5 yards from the ball carrier.
- When a stick foul occurs, the penalties are non-releasable and should take 2 minutes.
- When the score difference of 12goals or more is reached during the 2nd half of the game, the game gets into the running time.
- It’s illegal to use one-handed stick checks.
- Players can foul out with 5 minutes of personal fouls or 3 personal fouls.
- Like the men’s lacrosse-playing field, the Boys 14U’s field is 110* 69 yards.
- A coin is tossed to help teams select their goals at the beginning of the game. Thereafter, they alternate.
Check out the Official Lacrosse Boys Rules.
Lacrosse Boys High School Rules for 2021
Most of the rules for Boys High School rules are similar to those of the boys 14U. However, there’re a few additions, which include:
- Players face 1-3 minutes of a non-releasable penalty when they throw a crosse at the ball, their opponents or official game personnel.
- The game can commence as soon as all offensive players are 5 yards or further from the ball-possessor.
- The playing equipment and uniforms of the players must adhere to the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE) standard ND200.
- The rules changes for 2021 also recognize the value of concussion safety. Therefore, teams will benefit from an official’s time-out, whenever a player exhibits concussion-like symptoms after an injury.
- The CBO can no longer determine if a team qualifies to play based on their number of players on the playing field.
For more information, check out the NFHS High School Official Lacrosse rules.
FAQ About Lacrosse Rules
Now, let’s have a look at some frequently asked questions about lacrosse rules.
Can you run with the ball?
Yes, once you get hold of the ball with your stick, you are allowed to run across the field with it.
Alternatively, you can choose to pass it on to your teammates.
Can you kick the ball into the goal?
Yes. This applies to both men’s and women’s lacrosse. Players are allowed to kick the ball into the goal, but not with the aid of their hands.
Can lacrosse be played in the rain?
Yes, lacrosse can be played in the rain and on wet grounds. So if it rains, that’s not reason enough to cancel the game.
However, the coaches can agree to cancel it depending on the extremity of the weather.
Can you push from behind in lacrosse?
No. pushing from behind is considered an illegal body check and is punishable by a penalty.
Can you hit people with a stick?
You can hit other players using your stick, only on their sticks or gloves.
You should, however, restrain from hitting players using your stick below their waist, back or above their shoulders.
Also, if you must hit their arms, limit yourself as excessive beating can draw a flag.
Additionally, if a player is holding their stick only using one hand, then you aren’t allowed to hit the other free hand.
What is the 3-second rule in lacrosse?
The 3-second rule is considered a safety rule in lacrosse as well as a major foul.
It’s applied the moment the ball crosses the restraining line located at the attacking part of the field. The referee is allowed to use a held whistle.
If the attacking team plays at 15m of the goal and scores, the referee can use the advantage flag, making it a major foul.
What is an illegal pick in lacrosse?
It’s picking a ball out of the visual field of your opponent, which doesn’t give enough space or time to stop or change of direction, leading to contact.
Conclusion
The game of Lacrosse is characterized by various rules. And although there’re some basic lacrosse rules for beginners, which apply to all games, rules also vary depending on the league.
From the Women’s, Men’s, Boy’s, and Girl’s lacrosse, you need time to master all of them.
But there’s nothing impossible with a little bit of patience and dedication.
Start with the most important ones and learn the rest along the way.
This article makes a good learning point. And we hope it quenched your lacrosse rules learning thirst.
Lacrosse has different rules for men and women
Lacrosse is one of many sports to have both a men’s and women’s team. However, multiple physical and technical differences separate the two, creating different versions of lacrosse.
The major differences are how much contact is allowed, the style of play due to the number of players on the field, the dimensions of the field and the equipment.
Freshman attackman Connor Hulme said the men’s games draw more attention and are more exciting to watch.
“I think the level of contact and physicality determines the amount of fans that come,” Hulme said. “In my opinion, the more contact there is, the more spectators we will draw to our games.”
While the men’s game is monitoring on how much contact it allows, Jeff Long, head coach of the men’s lacrosse team, said hitting and being aggressive is not discouraged but is under watch at all times.
“They really don’t want contact, and there are a lot of rules that prevent excessive contact,” Long said. “Our game is pulling back with the big contact. … You can’t be overly physical in terms of being overly aggressive or unfair.”
Women’s head coach Karrie Moore compared the contact displayed in women’s lacrosse to that of the difference in contact between men’s and women’s ice hockey.
“There’s still a lot of contact; you just can’t outright hit somebody,” Moore said. “The contact is more like in basketball, but rule differences are very similar.”
In basketball, some contact is allowed, but if it is deemed by an official to be excessive or out of line, a foul is called.
In men’s lacrosse, body contact is allowed, which is the main difference between the men’s and women’s game.
However, both games include stick checking, the other main form of legal aggression.
These differences in contact lead to varying requirements when it comes to equipment.
Men wear padding on their forearms, chest, shoulders and back, and also helmets with masks. Due to less contact, women are only required to wear goggles, mouth guards and gloves.
Moore said the mouth guards protect against concussions more than anything, and with concussions now becoming a common and prominent injury, there have been talks of adding helmets to the women’s game.
“Personally, I don’t want to be in helmets,” Moore said. “There’s not really a whole lot of research that says it will make it any better.”
Moore talked about how in soccer and ice hockey, there are more injuries, including concussions due to more contact in those sports than women’s lacrosse — her reasoning behind why helmets aren’t necessary to the women’s game.
Another difference is the field dimensions. The women’s field is 120 yards long and 70 yards wide, compared to the men’s field, which is slightly smaller at 110 yards long and 60 yards wide.
Before the 2003–04 season, the women’s game had unlimited boundaries, which meant players could use any natural game space of the playing area. This rule has since been replaced to make the game quicker and to promote offense.
“With the women’s game, the history of that is that we didn’t use to have hard boundaries so they tried to make the field as long as possible.” Moore said. “But because people mostly play on football and soccer fields, that was as big as they could make the field.”
The final major difference is the number of players on the field.
A normal men’s formation fields three defenders, three midfielders, three attackers and a goaltender. The women’s game adds one extra attacker and defender.
Men’s lacrosse has a shot clock, which is a rundown clock that lets the offensive team know how much time it has to shoot the ball on goal before it is turned over to the other team. It is 30 seconds long and was approved in June 2014, with Division I schools’ using it this season, and will make its debut in Division II and III schools next season. The shot clock was created to try and speed up possessions and prevent teams from stalling in the offensive zone.
On the other hand, the women will have a possession clock, which combines the concepts of both a shot and transition clock. The new rule is intended to limit the abuse of clock management and quicken the pace of the game. The women’s clock was approved in July 2015 and will be implemented in Division I in 2017 and Division II and III in 2018.
Despite these variances, men’s and women’s lacrosse still share the same goal: to compete at the highest level and produce entertainment for their viewers through the speed and excitement of the game.
“The speed of play is making it better for everyone. It’s more fun to watch; it’s more fun to play,” Long said. “People want to see goals being scored. … They want to see a 15–12 lacrosse game, and that’s what we are working towards.”
ELF Women’s Lacrosse Championship 2015
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Game Schedule
| 1 | 12:00 | Czech republic | England | P1 | Field 1 | 3:17 (1:7, 2:10) |
| 2 | 13:30 | Israel | Wales | P2 | Field 2 | 9:9 (8:2, 1:7) |
| 3 | 15:00 | Spain | Sweden | P4 | Field 1 | 3:8 (0:3, 3:5) |
| 4 | 16:30 | Scotland | Austria | P3 | Field 2 | 20:0 (12:0, 8:0) |
| 5 | 18:00 | Germany | Switzerland | P4 | Field 1 | 17:3 (9:1, 8:2) |
| 6 | 09:00 | Wales | Netherlands | P2 | Field 1 | 15:1 (12:0, 3:1) |
| 7 | 10:30 | Finland | Norway | P1 | Field 2 | 13:4 (6:1, 7:3) |
| 8 | 12:00 | Ireland | Austria | P3 | Field 1 | 15:8 (11:2, 4:6) |
| 9 | 13:30 | Switzerland | Latvia | P4 | Field 2 | 8:10 (4:5, 4:5) |
| 10 | 15:00 | Belgium | Scotland | P3 | Field 1 | 0:20 (0:13, 0:7) |
| 11 | 16:30 | Germany | Spain | P4 | Field 2 | 17:0 (12:0, 5:0) |
| 12 | 18:00 | Italy | Israel | P2 | Field 1 | 8:12 (4:7, 4:5) |
| 13 | 09:00 | Latvia | Germany | P4 | Field 1 | 3:12 (2:8, 1:4) |
| 14 | 10:30 | Sweden | Switzerland | P4 | Field 2 | 6:8 (3:2, 3:6) |
| 15 | 12:00 | England | Finland | P1 | Field 1 | 17:0 (14:0, 3:0) |
| 16 | 13:30 | Austria | Belgium | P3 | Field 2 | 18:1 (14:0, 4:1) |
| 17 | 15:00 | Scotland | Ireland | P3 | Field 1 | 8:7 (5:4, 3:3) |
| 18 | 16:30 | Netherlands | Italy | P2 | Field 2 | 12:14 (3:8, 9:6) |
| 19 | 18:00 | Norway | Czech republic | P1 | Field 1 | 2:19 (2:12, 0:7) |
| 20 | 09:00 | Israel | Netherlands | P2 | Field 1 | 18:3 (14:2, 4:1) |
| 21 | 10:30 | Ireland | Belgium | P3 | Field 2 | 19:3 (14:3, 5:0) |
| 22 | 12:00 | Switzerland | Spain | P4 | Field 1 | 4:1 (2:0, 2:1) |
| 23 | 13:30 | Czech republic | Finland | P1 | Field 2 | 14:6 (7:4, 7:2) |
| 24 | 15:00 | Latvia | Sweden | P4 | Field 1 | 8:4 (5:2, 3:2) |
| 25 | 16:30 | England | Norway | P1 | Field 2 | 17:0 (8:0, 9:0) |
| 26 | 18:00 | Wales | Italy | P2 | Field 1 | 17:3 (5:2, 12:1) |
| 27 | 09:00 | Spain | Latvia | P4 | Field 1 | 2:10 (2:5, 0:5) |
| 28 | 10:30 | Sweden | Germany | P4 | Field 2 | 0:22 (0:13, 0:9) |
| 29 | 13:30 | Spain | Netherlands | Field 2 | 1:16 (1:10, 0:6) | |
| 30 | 15:00 | Italy | Finland | Field 1 | 9:7 (2:3, 7:4) | |
| 31 | 16:30 | Norway | Sweden | Field 2 | 8:8 (3:5, 5:3) | |
| 32 | 18:00 | Austria | Switzerland | Field 1 | 11:5 (7:2, 4:3) | |
| 33 | 09:00 | England | Ireland | QF1 | Field 1 | 23:4 (9:4, 14:0) |
| 34 | 10:30 | Sweden | Belgium | Field 2 | 17:2 (6:2, 11:0) | |
| 35 | 12:00 | Wales | Latvia | QF2 | Field 1 | 20:1 (12:0, 8:1) |
| 36 | 13:30 | Norway | Spain | Field 2 | 8:5 (5:3, 3:2) | |
| 37 | 15:00 | Germany | Israel | QF3 | Field 1 | 5:10 (3:5, 2:5) |
| 38 | 16:30 | Italy | Austria | Field 2 | 9:8 (2:5, 7:3) | |
| 39 | 18:00 | Scotland | Czech republic | QF4 | Field 1 | 15:6 (9:2, 6:4) |
| 40 | 09:00 | Finland | Austria | Field 1 | 6:10 (2:6, 4:4) | |
| 41 | 10:30 | Belgium | Norway | Field 2 | 9:11 (5:6, 4:5) | |
| 42 | 12:00 | Ireland | Latvia | Field 1 | 14:3 (8:2, 6:1) | |
| 43 | 13:30 | Netherlands | Sweden | Field 2 | 14:5 (7:3, 7:2) | |
| 44 | 15:00 | Germany | Czech republic | Field 1 | 8:5 (6:2, 2:3) | |
| 45 | 18:00 | Switzerland | Italy | Field 1 | 8:10 (4:6, 4:4) | |
| 46 | 10:30 | Finland | Switzerland | Field 2 | 12:2 (4:1, 8:1) | |
| 47 | 12:00 | England | Israel | SF1 | Field 1 | 12:8 (8:4, 4:4) |
| 48 | 13:30 | Sweden | Spain | Field 2 | 7:2 (2:2, 5:0) | |
| 49 | 15:00 | Wales | Scotland | SF2 | Field 1 | 13:7 (6:2, 7:5) |
| 50 | 16:30 | Belgium | Netherlands | Field 2 | 1:21 (1:13, 0:8) | |
| 51 | 18:00 | Latvia | Czech republic | 7th | Field 1 | 2:13 (1:4, 1:9) |
| 52 | 09:00 | Ireland | Germany | 5th | Field 1 | 8:4 (4:1, 4:3) |
| 53 | 10:30 | Spain | Belgium | Field 2 | 4:5 (2:2, 2:3) | |
| 54 | 12:00 | Israel | Scotland | 3rd | Field 1 | 9:10 (8:6, 1:4) |
| 55 | 13:30 | Netherlands | Norway | Field 2 | 19:6 (7:3, 12:3) | |
| 56 | 15:00 | England | Wales | Final | Field 1 | 11:8 (8:6, 3:2) |
As NFHS Takes Bigger Role in Lacrosse Rules, Will Girls Need Helmets?
As NFHS Takes Bigger Role in Lacrosse Rules, Will Girls Need Helmets?
4 Jun, 2021
By: Mary Helen Sprecher
The rules they might be a’changin’.
Beginning in the 2022-23 season, the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), in strengthening its relationship with USA Lacrosse, is expected to take a greater role in the rules writing process.
And that, of course, brings up the million-dollar question: Will protective headgear be mandated for girls?
It’s hardly a new issue, although it certainly does not stretch all the way back to the Native Americans who originated the game. Most recently, in 2019, it came to the fore when a report produced by researchers in the Department of Orthopedics at the New York University Langone Health showed headgear was effective at lowering the rate of head or facial injury and concussions in women’s lacrosse. Additionally, mandated headgear use was also shown to lower the rate of injury to body locations other than the head or face during practice.
When COVID stopped all sports programs in their tracks – including, of course, team sports like lacrosse – the issue was set aside. Now, however, it is moving back under the microscope.
According to an announcement published by NFHS, NFHS and USA Lacrosse have signed an agreement that affirms the commitment of both organizations to strengthen the working relationship that has been in place for more than 20 years. The agreement, focused on athlete safety, rules development, developing and promoting resources, and recruiting and retaining coaches and officials, will align both NFHS high school rules committees and the USA Lacrosse youth rules committees to establish consistency in the rules-writing process.
The NFHS announcement notes, “In the area of rules development, the composition of the NFHS Girls Lacrosse Rules Committee will be altered, beginning with the 2022-23 season, to mirror the NFHS Boys Lacrosse Rules Committee. In both cases, USA Lacrosse will have a representative on the NFHS committees, and the NFHS will have representation on the USA Lacrosse Women’s and Men’s Game Youth Rules Subcommittees.”
This may open the door to addressing the ongoing concerns regarding concussion prevention in the girls’ side of the sport – although there are no formal statements.
“The health and safety of our student-athletes will always be a priority in the rules writing process as risk minimization is always considered during the rules writing process,” Lindsey M. Atkinson, CIC, RAA, Director of Sports and Communications Associate, and the NFHS’ liaison to the Girls Lacrosse Rules Committee, told SDM. “This year, the committee will meet June 21-23 virtually to discuss rules changes for the 2022 season. We will have reports from both the NFHS Sports Medicine Advisory Committee (SMAC) and USA Lacrosse’s Center for Sports Science and its Sports Science & Safety Committee. This information informs any committee decision regarding equipment and rules that impact the risk of injury to the student-athlete. Headgear continues to be an item of discussion for both the NFHS SMAC and the girls lacrosse rules committee. Both groups are staying abreast of all studies currently being conducted and past study outcomes on the use of headgear in states like Florida [Editor’s note: In 2014, the Florida High School Athletic Association made a groundbreaking decision to mandate soft headgear for girls’ lacrosse players.] Any rules changes that come out of the June Girls Lacrosse Rules Committee Meeting will be available to the public by Mid-July.”
In other words: wait and see.
Some other programs – though they are in the minority – have chosen to institute head protection mandates for their girls’ and women’s teams.
In 2017, Brown University became the first NCAA Division I women’s lacrosse program to require helmets for all players. That same spring, female lacrosse players for high schools on Long Island in New York were given the option to wear standardized lacrosse-specific helmets, but most coaches left the decision to actually wear them up to the individual players, according to Newsday.com. A handful of other schools followed suit.
In 2015, ASTM created a standard for women’s lacrosse helmets – but those helmets weren’t required, which meant that most manufacturing campaigns never gained traction. There was significant pushback from purists, who said such requirements would ruin the women’s version of the game, which relies on strategy and speed, rather than on contact. However, there has been a growing school of thought that the game is undergoing a sea change on the women’s side, becoming more aggressive with the migration of coaches from boys’ and men’s lacrosse programs.
There are already some helmets on the market for girls, including models like this. However, one option for head protection, that could strike the middle ground between those adamantly opposed to head protection and those lobbying for it, might be the mandating of soft headgear, similar to that required of Florida’s high school girls’ lacrosse players.
The NFHS and USA Lacrosse meetings are expected to cover not just game rules but the development and promotion of lacrosse educational programming to support lacrosse coaches and officials.
“We really appreciate the longstanding relationship we’ve had with the NFHS in working to create the best possible experience for high school athletes,” said Ann Kitt Carpenetti, Vice President for Lacrosse Operations for USA Lacrosse. “This agreement is another positive step forward, both in helping to maintain consistency in the rules for youth and high school players, and in developing critical educational resources for coaches and officials. We’re excited about the opportunities in front of us.”
It will be interesting to see whether the consistency in rules also applies to headgear.
New NCAA rules for women’s lacrosse force players, coaches to adapt – Marquette Wire
Photo by Austin Anderson
NCAA rule changes now allow for only three people in the draw circle at a time.
Women’s lacrosse may look different from the game fans watched last season after the NCAA instituted new rules to improve the pace and flow of the game.
The biggest of these changes is the free movement rule, which allows players to continue moving after a foul or violation has been called, which allows for “quick restarts” similar to those seen in soccer. Prior to the change, all players had to stop at the sound of the whistle.
Senior attacker Riley Hill said she is in favor of the new rule. “It gives (attackers) the upper hand, especially with the defense trying to set up and a lot of communication going on,” Hill said. “I can pick up the ball and just go and make something happen.”
Women’s lacrosse head coach Meredith Black said she believes the new rule will benefit the Golden Eagles’ play style as well.
“I think it’s a nice change,” Black said. “In the beginning of the season, it will be a really interesting game because it’s just still so new … Once we settle into it, I think it will be a positive change for our team.”
Despite the rule providing an upper hand to attackers, there are some drawbacks. Offensive players behind the net are more closely marked than before the rule change. Previously, defenses had to cover long distances in short times to get to those attackers.
To compensate for these obstacles, Black engages her team in free movement drills, simulating out of bounds plays or foul calls when the new rules would come into effect.
“It’s really important to try and make them as game-like as possible,” Black said. “We’ve done our best.”
In addition to the free movement rule, the NCAA changed the way draws are conducted. Draws to determine possessions after goals will now happen with three players from each team in the circle. The revamp ensures player safety and allows officials to accurately determine the player with possession.
Hill said she appreciates the extra room for taking draws but finds it difficult to remain disciplined.
“I want to jump over the line and try and run in and actually help out the girls that are taking the draw and stuff, but I can’t,” Hill said. “If I do step over the line, the other team gets the ball, so it’s kind of having that awareness in the back of our minds 24/7.”
Adjusting to the midfield draw rule has been easier than getting used to the free movement changes. The basic format of draws remain unchanged; the only difference is three people are allowed in the draw circle instead of an unlimited amount.
Black said she believes the revamp will allow for junior midfielder Grace Gabriel, the single-season record holder for draw controls at 81 in 2016-’17, to be more successful in the circle.
“I think now with her having a little more freedom on the circle with less traffic, she actually should be able to win more,” Black said.
With the new NCAA changes sinking in, Hill remains optimistic about the upcoming season despite its 0-2 start to the 2018 season.
“I really hope that I can help our team get to the BIG EAST tournament and have a winning record for the first time in Marquette women’s lacrosse history,” Hill said.
Lacrosse Equipment for Women, Lacrosse Stick Set, Pink Mesh Pocket for Girls
Source Lacrosse Equipment for Women, Lacrosse Stick Set, Pink Mesh Pocket for Girls on m.alibaba.com
890.96 ₽ – 1,113.88 ₽
Min. order
: 50 pcs.
Learn more about shipping and other trade services.
| Port: | Xiamen |
| Payment terms: | L / C, Western Union, T / T, Payoneer |
| Supply Ability: | 5000 pcs.for Week |
| Item name: | TOTAL GUARD |
| Weight: | 340 g |
| Item origin: | Fujian China |
| Logo: | Customized logo is acceptable |
| Product Keywords: | Women’s Lacrosse Sticks |
| Usage: | Lacrosse Game |
| Shaft material: | 6061 alloy |
| Sample production time: | 5-15 days |
| Packing: | 1 pc / plastic bag |
| Size: | 32′ |
| Color: | White, cream, pink, and also customized are available |
| Models: | WLS002 |
| Material: | Nylon |
| Packaging info: | Each head in a PE bag, 10 sticks in a carton. |
| Preview Package: | https://sc04.alicdn.com/kf/H776d223639f84f3ea26e3076855785d2t.jpg_640x640.jpg |
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-Low pocket: Designed for elite lacrosse players, the TG Lacrosse head has been engineered to have a low pocket position for the ball to sit at the lowest point of your head, which gives you the most control.
-Composite Injection Polymer: Head made of proprietary composite injection polymer; This provides not only optimal strength and durability, but also maximum power transfer for improved speed
-Light weight and durability: High strength shaft is made of improved 6061 alloy to withstand testing. Excellent balance between lightweight and durable, ideal for players of all ages. Weight is distributed over the shaft for increased durability and for consistent feel and release.-
-Dimensions: 30 ”, 32”.
Lacrosse Head Size Guidelines for College and High School
Lacrosse heads are one of the most important parts of your lacrosse stick. When looking at the TG lacrosse head review, keep in mind the price, cost, NFHS and NCAA rules, position and play style. Also, determine how much pinch you need, stiffness, weight and lacing options, and if the head suits your needs.TG Lacrosse has proven its quality, which is why you are faced with a good Lacrosse head.
About Us
Total Guard Sports is a global sporting goods and bags manufacturer based in Xiamen, China. It specializes in sporting goods and bags, including Lacrosse equipment, hockey equipment, sticks (alloy and composite), protective gears (shoulder pads, elbow pads, gloves, pants, and shin guards), goalkeeper set, equipment bag, backpack and so on. Further.
Total Guard has been designing, developing and innovating new products for many years, using innovative technologies to produce high quality, versatile, safe and ergonomic products. Total Guard has always maintained our commitment to high standards of quality, technology and continuous innovation and has won a very good reputation in the global market.
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90,000 New ASTM International Standards for Roofers and Lacrosse Lovers
ASTM International has shared with all interested parties the latest information regarding two new projects. One of these projects involves the development of a voluntary consensus standard for low temperature bitumen for roofing applications.The second project covers the standardization of sports equipment for lacrosse lovers.
ASTM International Standard Low Temperature Roofing Bitumen
ASTM International’s Technical Committee (TC) D08 Roofing and Waterproofing Works has announced the development of a standard for two sustainable bituminous roofing products. We are talking about products, the use of which allows you to reduce the volume of emissions of harmful substances into the atmosphere, save energy and secure the work by reducing the negative impact of bitumen on the health of builders.
The proposed standard will be referred to as ASTM WK45660 Low Temperature Roofing Bitumen Specification . The document should cover bitumen that can be placed on certain surfaces at significantly lower operating temperatures than most other counterparts. The ability of the products to maintain performance at lower temperatures, in turn, makes it possible to lower the maximum temperature of the asphalt boiler, reducing operating costs.
According to experts from the D08 ASTM International team, bitumen is increasingly being used in shallow roofs, offering excellent performance in terms of durability and ductility. All interested parties can contribute to the preparation of ASTM WK45660, which is overseen by Subcommittee (SC) D08.03 Coating Materials and Bitumen Waterproofing Membranes and Multilayer Roofing Materials.
ASTM International Standard for Women’s Lacrosse Safety Helmets
ASTM International announced the publication of a voluntary consensus standard for safety helmets for women playing lacrosse.The document was named ASTM F3137 Specifications for Helmets for Use in Ladies Lacrosse . In the process of its preparation, experts from the sports community, the medical field, specialists in biomechanics and product testing (representatives of research laboratories) took part.
It should be noted that ASTM International had to develop a separate standard for helmets for women as men’s and women’s lacrosse are currently considered two separate sports.In the case of male lacrosse, the rules allow contact wrestling with the use of all parts of the body. As a consequence, the use of helmets by athletes is mandatory. However, in the case of a women’s game, deliberate use of a stick to interfere with an opponent or physical contact is considered a violation of the rules. Thus, for women, the use of helmets has always been optional (optional).
According to experts, the publication and mass implementation of this document will contribute to a significant increase in the safety of all participants in this ball game.The primary users of the ASTM F3137 standard should be sports equipment manufacturers and helmet designers. It is expected that protective helmets that meet all the requirements of the new standard may be available on the open market within the next 18 months.
The developers of the new standard have concluded that wearing helmets significantly reduces the risk of head injuries after examining the evidence. They note that ASTM F3137 will enable all lacrosse sports equipment manufacturers to demonstrate to potential buyers that their products have been designed, manufactured and tested to minimize the specific impact of the most common hazardous situations in the game.
Alex Bledsoe “Burn Me Deadly”
Eddie LaCrosse, the protagonist of Alex Bledsoe’s debut novel The Sword-Edged Blonde, is heading back to his readers in Burn Me Deadly, the second installment of a private detective and hired swordsman in a world that combines classic fantasy and cool detective. In the new book, the author did not reinvent the wheel and kept intact all the strengths of his first major work, at the same time getting rid of a number of shortcomings that slightly spoiled the impression of “The Blonde”.
Like the first book, Burn Me Deadly is narrated from Eddie’s perspective. However, this time Bledsoe decided to avoid excursions into the protagonist’s past, focusing exclusively on his present. Since the situations in “The Blonde” in which Eddie definitely knew much more than he said, sometimes confused what was happening, such an author’s decision looks justified. Moreover, now readers have the opportunity to compete with laCross in the high-speed unraveling of the tangle of intrigues.And if you consider that Eddie sometimes does not shine with the presence of deductive abilities …
Without flashbacks, the plot became more linear, but this did not affect the quality of the novel. The author still masterfully twists the intrigue, deftly hides the ends in the water and prepares the most tricky and unexpected surprises for the gape of the heroes. Combining unexpected and banal plot moves, Bledsoe achieves a very skillfully constructed balance, in which the reader, on the one hand, remains in the dark about the general direction of movement, but at the same time is able to guess the presence of smaller forks and turns.
Bledsoe has repeatedly said that he is much more interested in the development of characters than in the space in which they live. This time, the author generally focused solely on the description of the town of Nesedy and its environs, completely abandoning the rest of the world. And what is most interesting, this state of affairs does not bother at all. The secret must be that with even a few paragraphs, Alex creates a surprisingly cozy atmosphere perfect for books like this.
The main feature of the work is, of course, the characters led by Eddie.Last time laCross had to deal with his past and find a life partner, this time our hero solves the problems of trust in relationships, explores the limits of his luck and endurance, and also once again convinces himself of the existence of magic and higher powers. Moreover, despite the already existing experience of collisions with something divine, LaCrosse’s cynicism and pragmatism to the last prevent him from accepting the most obvious explanation, until Eddie face to face with what he denies the right to exist.
Other characters are a little lost against the background of Eddie, but even so, Bledsoe managed to create a number of very charming characters. First of all, the main women in the life of laCross, Liz, Angelina and Callie turned out very well, but in addition to them, there are many pretty inhabitants in Nesed, who will undoubtedly still appear in the next series. In addition, Alex laid the foundations for Eddie’s relationship with the local king of the underworld. This can be considered another nod to Glen Cook, however, unlike Garrett, laCross did not lend any services to the local big boss and immediately crossed the road.
Alex does not forget to joke regularly. Eddie’s extremely pertinent remarks, witty picks involving other characters, funny, absurd and sometimes ridiculous situations more than once or twice throughout the book will make the reader smile. “Burn Me Deadly”, in general, like the rest of the series, is a fairly easy and quickly absorbed reading, and this despite the fact that Bledsoe is often very cruel to his characters.
