What gear do you need for box lacrosse. How to choose the right stick for your position. Which protective equipment is essential for box lacrosse players. What features should you look for in box lacrosse shorts.
Choosing the Perfect Box Lacrosse Stick for Your Position
The right lacrosse stick can significantly impact your performance on the box field. Let’s explore how to select the ideal stick based on your playing position:
Attackers: Precision and Speed
For attackers, a narrower head is crucial. Why? It allows for better ball control during quick maneuvers and accurate shots. A 30-inch shaft typically suits most attackers, providing a balance between control and reach.
Defenders: Reach and Interception
Defenders benefit from a wider head to intercept passes and scoop ground balls effectively. An extended shaft, often around 60 inches, gives defenders the reach advantage for poke checks and disrupting offensive plays.
Midfielders: Versatility is Key
Midfielders require a stick that accommodates various roles. An oval or hybrid-shaped head, approximately 6 inches wide, offers a good balance for handling, passing, and shooting. The shaft length can vary based on personal preference and playing style.
Goalies: Maximum Coverage
Goalie sticks are unique, featuring extra-wide heads up to 15 inches across to maximize shot-blocking surface area. The shaft is typically shorter, around 40 inches, to facilitate quick reactions in close-range situations.
Regardless of position, beginners might prefer a molded head for durability, while more experienced players often opt for a strung head with tech mesh pockets for superior ball control. Consider your budget when selecting a stick, as prices can range from $20 for basic models to over $300 for professional-grade equipment.
Essential Protective Gear for Box Lacrosse Safety
Safety is paramount in box lacrosse. Here’s a breakdown of the essential protective equipment every player needs:
- Helmet with facemask (NOCSAE or CE certified)
- Gloves with abrasion-resistant palms and molded plastic cuffs
- Arm pads covering from wrist to above the elbow
- Shoulder pads
- Rib guards
- Mouthguard (preferably custom-molded)
- Protective cup (for male players)
When selecting protective gear, proper fit is crucial. Many retailers offer sizing kits to ensure you get the right size for your body type. Remember, well-fitted gear not only provides better protection but also allows for optimal movement and comfort during play.
Selecting the Best Shoulder Pads for Box Lacrosse
Shoulder pads are critical in box lacrosse, as they absorb the impact of cross-checks and body checks. What features should you look for in high-quality shoulder pads?
- High-density foam or plastic main shoulder caps
- Chest pad extending to protect the sternum
- Lightweight design with ventilated straps for mobility
- Floating shoulder caps for better coverage
To find the right size, measure across the broadest part of your shoulders and chest. The pads should allow free arm movement without pinching. Brands like Warrior, Maverik, and STX offer shoulder pads specifically designed to withstand the physical nature of box lacrosse.
Choosing the Right Lacrosse Shorts for Performance and Protection
Box lacrosse shorts are more than just part of the uniform; they offer performance features and additional protection. What should you look for in lacrosse shorts?
- Built-in padded compression lining
- Interior pockets for protective cups, thigh pads, and tailbone pads
- Stretchy fabrics for unrestricted movement
- Side cargo pockets for carrying extra balls
- Moisture-wicking and antimicrobial materials
Goalies might consider shorts with extra thigh padding to protect against close-range shots. Compression shorts with cup pockets worn under uniform shorts can simplify your gear setup while providing additional support and protection.
The Importance of Proper Footwear in Box Lacrosse
Choosing the right footwear is crucial for optimal performance and injury prevention in box lacrosse. What factors should you consider when selecting shoes for box lacrosse?
- Indoor-specific design with non-marking soles
- Excellent traction for quick cuts and stops
- Ankle support to prevent sprains
- Cushioning for impact absorption
- Breathability to keep feet cool and dry
Many players opt for indoor soccer shoes or court shoes designed for sports like handball or volleyball. These shoes offer the right balance of grip, support, and agility required for box lacrosse. Brands like Nike, Adidas, and Under Armour produce shoes well-suited for the demands of indoor lacrosse.
Specialized Goalie Equipment for Box Lacrosse
Box lacrosse goalies require additional specialized equipment to protect against high-velocity shots in close quarters. What extra gear do box lacrosse goalies need?
- Chest protector with reinforced shoulder and arm coverage
- Padded goalie pants or shorts
- Throat guard
- Reinforced gloves with extra padding
- Shin guards
Goalie chest protectors for box lacrosse are typically bulkier than those used in field lacrosse, offering more comprehensive protection against the harder shots encountered in the indoor game. The throat guard is a crucial piece of equipment, protecting the vulnerable neck area from direct hits.
Training Aids and Accessories for Box Lacrosse Players
To improve your skills and maintain your equipment, consider these training aids and accessories:
- Rebounder for practicing passes and catches
- Agility ladder for footwork drills
- Resistance bands for strength training
- Ball bag for carrying extra balls
- Stick maintenance kit (mesh, strings, tape)
- Equipment bag to organize and transport gear
A rebounder is particularly useful for solo practice, allowing you to work on your passing and catching skills even without a partner. Agility ladders can help improve your footwork and speed, crucial skills in the fast-paced box lacrosse game.
Choosing the Right Box Lacrosse Gear for Youth Players
When outfitting youth players for box lacrosse, safety and proper fit are paramount. How does youth gear differ from adult equipment?
- Lighter weight materials to reduce fatigue
- Adjustable sizing to accommodate growth
- Enhanced padding in vulnerable areas
- Age-appropriate stick sizes
Many manufacturers offer youth-specific lines of lacrosse equipment. These products are designed to provide the necessary protection while being appropriately sized for younger players. It’s important to regularly check the fit of youth gear, as children can outgrow equipment quickly.
When selecting a youth stick, consider the player’s age and size. Shorter shafts and smaller heads are typically more manageable for younger players, allowing them to develop proper technique without struggling with oversized equipment.
Maintaining Your Box Lacrosse Gear for Longevity
Proper maintenance of your box lacrosse gear not only extends its lifespan but also ensures it continues to provide optimal protection and performance. How can you keep your equipment in top condition?
- Clean your gear regularly with appropriate cleaners
- Air out equipment after each use to prevent odor and bacterial growth
- Check for wear and tear, especially on protective padding
- Tighten screws and replace loose parts promptly
- Store gear in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
Pay special attention to your stick maintenance. Regularly check the pocket for stretching or wear, and re-string when necessary. Keep the head shape intact by storing your stick properly, avoiding extreme temperatures that could warp the plastic.
For helmets, inspect the shell for cracks or dents and ensure all padding is securely in place. Replace any damaged components immediately to maintain the helmet’s protective capabilities.
Understanding Box Lacrosse Equipment Regulations
Box lacrosse equipment regulations can vary depending on the league and level of play. What are some common equipment rules in box lacrosse?
- Stick length restrictions based on position
- Mandatory protective gear requirements
- Color restrictions for certain equipment pieces
- Specific certifications required for helmets and other protective gear
It’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the specific rules of your league or tournament. Some organizations may have additional requirements or restrictions beyond the standard regulations.
For example, many leagues require all players to wear matching uniforms and have visible numbers. Goalie equipment often has specific size limitations to prevent unfair advantages in covering the goal.
Always check with your coach or league officials if you’re unsure about any equipment regulations. Using non-compliant gear could result in penalties or even disqualification from play.
Budgeting for Box Lacrosse Equipment
Outfitting yourself for box lacrosse can be a significant investment. How can you manage the costs while still getting quality gear?
- Prioritize essential protective equipment
- Look for package deals that include multiple gear pieces
- Consider gently used equipment for non-critical items
- Invest in quality for high-wear items like sticks and shoes
- Take advantage of end-of-season sales
Remember that safety should never be compromised to save money. Always invest in a high-quality, properly fitted helmet, even if it means spending less on other gear initially.
For growing youth players, consider adjustable equipment that can accommodate size changes. This can help reduce the frequency of replacements as your child grows.
Many retailers offer starter kits for new players, which can be a cost-effective way to get all the necessary gear. As you progress in the sport, you can gradually upgrade individual pieces of equipment.
Adapting Your Gear for Different Box Lacrosse Positions
While there are core equipment pieces that all box lacrosse players need, certain positions may benefit from specialized gear. How does equipment vary among different positions?
Attackers
- Lighter, more maneuverable sticks
- Arm pads that allow for greater mobility
- Cleats or shoes optimized for quick direction changes
Defenders
- Longer sticks for increased reach
- More robust arm and shoulder pads to withstand physical play
- Gloves with extra padding for stick checks
Midfielders
- Versatile stick suitable for both offense and defense
- Lightweight, breathable padding for endurance
- Shoes with excellent traction for rapid transitions
Goalies
- Specialized wider stick
- Comprehensive body padding
- Reinforced gloves for shot-stopping
As you develop in your position, you may find it beneficial to fine-tune your equipment choices to enhance your specific playing style and responsibilities on the field.
The Role of Technology in Modern Box Lacrosse Equipment
Advancements in technology have significantly impacted the design and performance of box lacrosse equipment. How has technology improved lacrosse gear?
- Lightweight, high-strength materials for sticks and protective gear
- Moisture-wicking fabrics for improved comfort
- Advanced padding materials for better impact absorption
- Ergonomic designs based on biomechanical research
- Smart sensors for performance tracking
Modern lacrosse sticks often incorporate aerospace-grade materials, providing strength and flexibility while reducing weight. This allows for faster shots and more precise ball control.
Protective gear now features impact-absorbing foams and plastics that disperse force more effectively, reducing the risk of injury without sacrificing mobility.
Some manufacturers are even exploring the integration of smart technology into equipment. For example, sensors in stick shafts can provide data on shot speed and accuracy, helping players analyze and improve their performance.
As technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see further innovations in box lacrosse equipment, potentially revolutionizing how the game is played and how players train and perform.
When suiting up for box lacrosse, one of the most critical pieces of gear is your stick. The right stick can make all the difference in your handling, passing, catching and shooting. Here’s a breakdown of how to choose the perfect stick based on your position:
How to Choose the Right Stick Based on Position
For attackers, you’ll want a stick with a narrower head to maintain control during quick stickwork and shots on goal. Avoid an oversized head which can slow you down in traffic. A 30-inch shaft is suitable for most attackers. Defenders need a wider head to snag ground balls and intercept passes. An extra-long shaft like 60 inches gives you maximum reach when poke checking.
Midfielders do it all – advance the ball in transition, play defense, and take shots. Look for a head with an oval/hybrid shape approximately 6 inches wide to balance handling and passing. Attack and defense-focused heads can work too. Goalies have specialized sticks with extra wide heads up to 15 inches across to block shots. The shaft is cut down to around 40 inches for close-range reacting.
For all field positions, a good starter stick has a 7075 alloy shaft for durability and lightness. Beginners may prefer a molded head while intermediate/advanced players upgrade to a strung head. Tech mesh pockets provide premium ball control. Know your budget – sticks range from $20 to $300+ for pro models. Don’t overlook attachments like shaft grips and end caps to enhance feel.
Essential Protective Gear – Helmet, Gloves & Arm Pads
Safety is priority #1, so invest in quality protective gear. Start with a helmet with a facemask certified by NOCSAE or CE. Make sure it fits snugly with the chinstrap fastened. Next are gloves which shield your hands from checks and slashes. Look for abrasion-resistant palms and molded plastic cuffs. Arm pads with hard plastic caps secure from the wrist to above the elbow for blocking shots.
Additional padding like shoulder pads and rib guards provide extra insurance against bruising hits, especially for young players. Ask about sizing kits to find the right fit. Don’t forget a mouthguard – get one custom molded for the best protection and speech clarity. Protective cups are a must for male players.
Finding the Best Shoulder Pads for Hard Hits
Shoulder pads take the brunt of cross-checks and body checks, making the right pair critical. Focus first on protection – see that the main shoulder caps are made of high-density foam or plastic. Make sure the chest pad extends far enough down to protect the sternum. Lightweight pads with ventilated straps enhance mobility.
For sizing, measure across the broadest part of your shoulders and chest. Pads shouldn’t pinch but allow free arm movement. Floating shoulder caps that move independently offer better coverage. Properly fitted shoulder pads worn under the jersey reduce the impact of collisions. Brands like Warrior, Maverik, and STX offer pads engineered for box lacrosse punishment.
Selecting Lacrosse Shorts with Pockets & Padding
Along with your jersey, lacrosse shorts complete the uniform while adding performance features. Look for shorts with built-in padded compression lining or interior pockets for sliding in protective cups, thigh pads and tailbone pads. This streamlines gear instead of wearing bulky girdles. Stretchy fabrics allow running and pivoting.
Side cargo pockets are handy for stashing an extra ball. For goalies, consider shorts with extra thigh padding to withstand close-range shots. Compression shorts with cup pockets worn under your uniform shorts simplify gearing up. Moisture-wicking and antimicrobial materials keep you cool and odor-free even on hot summer nights inside the box field house.
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When getting ready to play box lacrosse, having the proper protective equipment is an absolute must to keep you safe on the field. A helmet, gloves and arm pads form the core protective foundation for box lacrosse players.
Essential Protective Gear – Helmet, Gloves & Arm Pads
Let’s start from the top with probably the most vital piece of protective gear – the helmet. Only use a helmet specifically designed for box lacrosse or hockey and certified for impact protection by organizations like NOCSAE or CE. Make sure to properly fit your helmet so it doesn’t shift around. Securely fastened chin straps will keep it firmly in place. Full cage facemasks protect your mug from errant sticks and balls.
Gloves safeguard your hands and wrists from slashes, poke checks and stingers. Look for abrasion-resistant palms and durable molded plastic cuffs so you can fearlessly catch, pass and scoop. Getting hit in the forearms and elbows is common, so arm pads extending from wrist to above the elbow help fend off bruising blows.
Additional padding like shoulder pads and rib protectors isn’t required in box lacrosse but can give youth and smaller players extra insurance. Mouthguards protect teeth and gums from direct shots – get a custom fitted one for best protection and speech clarity. And don’t forget the essential protective cup!
The right safety gear allows you to play aggressively with confidence. Seek out equipment made with lightweight and breathable materials so excess bulk doesn’t hinder your mobility. Brands like Warrior, Maverik, STX and Shock Doctor offer gear purpose-built for box lacrosse’s fast-paced physical style of play.
Now that you’re covered in essential protection, it’s time to focus on choosing the perfect lacrosse stick, shorts with pockets for extra pads, and shoes with grip for quick cuts in tight quarters. Your gear bag also deserves consideration – go for a spacious duffle or backpack to tote all your equipment….
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When playing box lacrosse, taking and giving out hard hits is just part of the game. Having proper shoulder pad protection is crucial to absorbing those bruising collisions while allowing full range of motion.
Finding the Best Shoulder Pads for Hard Hits
The main job of lacrosse shoulder pads is shielding your shoulders, collar bones and sternum from the impact of cross-checks, body checks and general physical contact. Seek out pads with high-density foam or plastic shoulder caps. The chest padding should extend far enough down to protect the sternum from shots and checks.
Ensuring a good fit is key – measure across your shoulders and chest and follow size charts to find your proper size. The shoulder caps should sit just above your shoulders without pinching, and allow full arm rotation. Some pads have floating caps that move independently for better coverage from all angles.
The best lacrosse shoulder pads will be protective yet lightweight. Breathable backing and ventilated straps prevent overheating. For field players, low profile pads worn under the jersey optimize mobility. Goalies need extra beefed-up padding to fend off close-range shots.
Brands like Maverik, STX, and Warrior design shoulder pads engineered for box lacrosse’s hard-hitting style. The Warrior Rabil Next Shoulder Pads offer flexible and slim padding with an X floating caps system for premium protection. Get the right pads and you can bring the boom!
Now that you’re protected from shoulder to shoulder, don’t neglect other critical gear like a sturdy helmet, gloves for hand protection, and arm pads for covering those limbs. Box lacrosse shorts with built-in pockets and padding streamline putting on additional protection like thigh pads, knee pads, and tailbone pads….
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An often overlooked but important piece of box lacrosse gear is your shorts. The right pair of lacrosse shorts adds extra padding while giving you storage options for gear.
Selecting Lacrosse Shorts with Pockets & Padding
Lacrosse shorts these days come with bonus features to enhance performance and protection. Look for shorts with built-in compression padding or interior pockets to hold protective gear like thigh pads, knee pads, and tailbone pads. This lets you pad up without wearing bulky girdle systems underneath.
Interior stash pockets are great for carrying an extra ball. Sideline cargo pockets provide extra storage space as well. Stretchy, lightweight fabrics allow for unrestricted movement while moisture-wicking materials keep you cool and dry.
For goalies, padded lacrosse shorts provide extra protection for the thighs and hips versus shots at close range. Compression shorts with cup pockets worn under your team shorts also work to securely hold protection in place.
Proper fitting lacrosse shorts shouldn’t restrict your leg motion for running, cutting or shooting. A little extra padding goes a long way toward blunting impacts from checks, slashes, dives and falls in the box lacrosse arena.
Now that your lower half is covered, be sure to choose shoulder pads engineered for maximum protection and range of motion. Arm yourself with durable gloves for handling checks. Pick the perfect lacrosse stick for your position. And get a spacious bag to haul all your gear in one trip!
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Having the proper footwear for box lacrosse is key to staying on your feet and avoiding injuries. Let’s explore why cleats are so important for traction and ankle support in the sport of box lacrosse.
The Importance of Cleats for Traction & Ankle Support
The fast-paced, confined nature of box lacrosse makes high-quality cleats a must-have. Those smooth synthetic floors can get extremely slippery, especially when making quick cuts or abrupt stops. Rubber or plastic cleats grip the surface for sure-footed running, dodging, and rapid changes in direction.
Cleats also lend critical stability for the ankles and feet. The lateral support cleat designs provide fend off rolls and twists. This protection is vital when jostling for loose balls or absorbing checks. Higher mid and high-top cleats offer even more ankle stability.
Seeking out cleats designed specifically for box lacrosse is recommended over outdoor models. They’ll be optimized for maximum traction on indoor surfaces without picking up excessive floor debris. Brands like New Balance, Nike, Under Armour, and Warrior make box lacrosse cleats.
Getting the right fit is important – too loose and your feet will slide around, leading to blisters. Cleats that are too snug can pinch and restrict blood flow. Consider inserts if you need extra arch support. Broken-in cleats you’ve practiced in are ideal for game days.
With sure-gripping cleats laced up, you’ll have the stability and traction needed to cut, pivot and push off aggressively in the tight box lacrosse arena. Now lace up your stick skills and get ready for intense fast-paced action!
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Goalies have the toughest job on the floor in box lacrosse. Let’s breakdown the specialized protective gear goalies need to stay safe and perform at their best.
Goalie Gear Explained – Chest Protector, Throat Guard & More
First and foremost, a goalie needs a chest protector to absorb shots to the torso. Chest pads cushion hard impacts and diffuse energy away from the sternum and ribs. They wrap around the rib cage while leaving the arms free for reacting.
Goalie pants feature thick foam pads to protect the thighs, hips and tailbone from close-range shots. Most also have a built-in protective cup. Shin guards shield the knees and forelegs from stingers.
A throat guard is a must-have for goalies to fend off shots aimed at the neck and collar area. Full-hand mitts provide more surface coverage than regular gloves. Many goalies add an extra blocker glove for their non-dominant hand too.
For the all-important face protection, a hockey style helmet with full cage mask is standard. Some goalies opt for “Cheater Cages” cut a bit larger for expanded vision. Pelvic protectors and elbow pads add another layer of cushioning for goalies as well.
Brands like Warrior, STX, Maverik, Bauer and CCM offer specialized gear to suit the needs of lacrosse goaltenders. With the right equipment, goalies can fearlessly put their bodies on the line!
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The ball is the centerpiece of any lacrosse game. For box lacrosse, specialized balls with different rubber densities give unique performance. Let’s look at the differences between soft and hard box lacrosse balls.
Box Lacrosse Balls – Differences Between Soft & Hard Rubber
Soft box lacrosse balls have a flexible rubber exterior that compresses on impact. This increased “give” absorbs some of the energy, resulting in less bounce and slower shots. Youth players find soft rubber balls easier to catch and control.
Hard box lacrosse balls use rigid rubber covers. This limits compression, creating lively rebound off sticks, boards and goalies. Hard balls lead to faster passes and more blistering shots. Experienced box players prefer the quick play with rigid balls.
While rigid balls are standard for top-level box lacrosse leagues, recreational and youth divisions often use soft balls to tone down the velocity for safety. Women’s box lacrosse also favors soft balls for better stick handling.
Some key specs – box lacrosse balls range from 20-23 oz in weight and 7.5-8 inches in circumference. Rubber covers come in white or colors like orange and pink for visibility. Branded box balls from companies like STX, Maverik and Warrior give optimal rebound and durability.
The right box lacrosse ball improves handling, shooting, and safety. Try out both types to decide which performs best for your skill level and league rules.
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No box lacrosse game can happen without goals at either end of the field. Let’s go over the key features to look for when choosing box lacrosse goals for your home, team, or league.
Box Lacrosse Goals – Key Features to Look For
Box lacrosse goals share similarities with ice hockey nets but on a smaller 4’x4′ footprint. The frames consist of 1.5-2″ steel or aluminum piping bent into a squared off shape. This rigid construction allows the goal to withstand hard shots.
The back and side netting uses heavyweight nylon or cord lacing to prevent balls from penetrating through.behind the pipe frame. Bottom rear supports add stability so the goal doesn’t tip back on powerful impacts.
Portable box lacrosse goals will breakdown into sections for easy transport and storage. Look for models with stable, non-marking base feet to grip indoor surfaces. Premium goals offer features like wrap-around netting and target shooting corners.
Whether playing competitively or just for fun, proper full-sized 4×4 goals optimized for box lacrosse allow you to practice shooting and scoring just like the pros. Brands like STX, Gladiator and Mazon make goals durable enough to withstand even heavy-duty box lacrosse action.
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One vital piece of protection every male box lacrosse player needs is a protective cup. Let’s go over key factors like sizing and material options when choosing a cup.
Protective Cups – Sizing Tips and Material Options
A properly fitted cup is crucial to keeping sensitive areas protected from checks, errant sticks, and shots. Measure around the widest part of your hips and consult size charts to find your right fit. If too small, the edges can dig in and restrict motion. Go too big and it may shift around ineffective.
Many cups integrate into compression shorts or jocks for security. Some cups feature extra side padding or removable inserts for customized protection. Ventilation and wicking fabrics help reduce moisture buildup.
Cup materials include flexible plastics like HDPE or copolyester for lightness and mobility. Rigid polycarbonate and carbon fiber offer more robust protection at the expense of some comfort. Many cups have soft fabric edges for comfort.
Major brands for lacrosse protective cups are Shock Doctor, Nutty Buddy, STX, Maverik, Nike and McDavid. Take time to find the right sized cup so you can play confidently and safely. A properly worn cup should go unnoticed while on the field.
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Transporting all your box lacrosse gear to and from the field requires a solid equipment bag. Backpacks, duffle bags and wheeled bags each offer advantages for managing your haul.
Box Lacrosse Bags – Backpacks, Duffle Bags & Wheeled Gear Bags
Backpack-style gear bags feature two padded, adjustable shoulder straps for easily carrying equipment on your back. Trekking-style straps and sternum belts ensure a comfortable, stable load. Look for bags with ventilated backing and pockets to organize gear.
For maximum storage space, duffle-style equipment bags can’t be beat. Durable polyester or canvas construction creates a bottomless pit for helmets, pads and other essentials. Shoulder straps help manage heavier loads.
Rolling bags mounted on smooth-rolling wheels excel at transporting heaps of bulky equipment across long distances and up stairs. Telescoping handles ensure a comfortable pull. Some even have shoe pockets and removable backpack straps.
Key factors are durability, storage organization and proper sizing. Measure the cubic volume of your gear pile and add at least 20%. Major lacrosse brands like Warrior, Maverik, STX, and Gait all offer roomy bags purpose-built for the gear-intensive sport of box lacrosse.
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