Boys Lacrosse Rules Overview:

1. Objective of the Game:

• The objective of boys lacrosse is to score more goals than the opposing team by shooting the ball into the opponent's goal.

2. Teams:

• Each team consists of 10 players on the field, including three attackmen, three midfielders, three defensemen, and one goalkeeper.

3. Game Duration:

• A standard boys lacrosse game is typically divided into four quarters, each lasting 12 minutes. However, actual game durations may vary.

4. Starting Play:

• The game begins with a faceoff at the center of the field.
• Players from each team attempt to gain possession of the ball after the faceoff.

5. Possession and Movement:

• Players may pass, catch, and carry the ball using a crosse (lacrosse stick).
• Body checking is allowed under certain conditions, primarily in the midfield and defensive zones.

6. Scoring:

• A goal is scored when the entire ball crosses the plane of the goal line.
• Each goal is worth one point.

7. Substitutions:

• Substitutions can be made on the fly, with players entering and leaving the field through the substitution box.

8. Penalties:

• Players who commit fouls are typically penalized with time in the penalty box.
• Common penalties include slashing, tripping, and unnecessary roughness.

9. Faceoffs:

• Faceoffs occur at the start of each quarter and after each goal.
• Players use their crosses to try and gain possession of the ball after the official drops it between the two players taking the faceoff.

10. Out of Bounds:

• If the ball or a player with possession of the ball goes out of bounds, the opposing team is awarded possession.

11. Goalkeeper Rules:

• The goalkeeper is the only player allowed to use their hands to catch and save shots on goal.
• Goalkeepers cannot leave the crease unless they have possession of the ball.

12. Game Officials:

• A boys lacrosse game is typically officiated by three referees who enforce the rules of the game.

 

Girls Lacrosse Rules Overview

Objective: Girls lacrosse is a fast-paced sport where two teams compete to score goals by shooting a rubber ball into the opponent's goal.

Team Composition:

• Each team consists of 12 players, including a goalkeeper.
• Positions include attackers, midfielders, defenders, and a goalkeeper.

Equipment:

• Players use a crosse (lacrosse stick) to carry, pass, and shoot the ball.
• The ball used is typically a solid rubber ball.
• Protective gear includes a mouthguard, goggles, and, for the goalkeeper, additional padding.

Field:

• The field is typically 110 yards by 60 yards, with markings for goals, shooting circles, and restraining lines.

Game Duration:

• High school games usually consist of two halves, each lasting 25 minutes.
• College games may have different durations.

Starting Play:

• The game begins with a draw at the center circle, where two players from each team compete for possession.

Scoring:

• A goal is scored when the ball crosses the opponent's goal line.

Player Movement:

• Players must pass or shoot the ball within a certain timeframe, preventing prolonged ball possession.

Checking:

• Controlled stick checks are allowed to dislodge the ball from an opponent's crosse.
• Uncontrolled, dangerous checks are penalized.

Fouls and Penalties:

• Fouls result in penalties, and the offending player serves time in a designated penalty area.
• Common fouls include slashing, tripping, and dangerous play.

Offsides:

• Teams must maintain a certain number of players on either side of the midfield line.
• Offsides result in possession turnover and penalties.

Substitutions:

• Substitutes may enter the field at designated areas.

Timeouts:

• Teams are allowed a limited number of timeouts per game.

Winning the Game:

• The team with the most goals at the end of the game wins.