Rules of Lacrosse
Basic Rules
Lacrosse is a fast-paced sport consisting of two teams trying to score by getting a ball into the opponent’s goal. The game consists of four quarters with teams throwing, catching, and shooting the ball while adhering to rules of lacrosse. To do this, players use their sticks to hit and check opponents on defense and pass and score on offense.
Key Rules:
- Players: Each team has a set number of players (10 in field lacrosse and 6 in box lacrosse).
- Field Size: Field lacrosse is played on a spacious outdoor field, while box lacrosse occurs within an enclosed arena.
- Scoring: A goal is scored when the entire ball crosses the goal line.
- Checking: Players can check opponents using slap checks, poke checks or body checks, but dangerous or illegal checks are penalized.
- Fouls: Fouls lead to penalties, which can include time in the penalty box for offending players.
- Face-offs: Face-offs occur at the start of each quarter and after goals. During this time, Two players either kneel or bending over the grounded ball with their sticks facing away. The referee’s whistle then queues players to push forward to capture the ball and retain possession for their team.
Differences Between Indoor (Box) and Outdoor (Field) Lacrosse Rules
| Aspect | Indoor Lacrosse (Box) | Outdoor Lacrosse (Field) |
|---|---|---|
| Team Size | 6 players per team | 10 players per team |
| Field Size | Smaller, enclosed arena (typically 200×85 ft) | Larger outdoor field (typically 110×60 yards) |
| Stick Length | All players must use sticks with shafts that are between 30-36 inches. | All players must use sticks with shafts that are between 30-36 inches other than Long-pole defenders. You are allowed 4 long pole defenders on the field who may use shafts measuring between 46-60 inches. |
| Game Duration | 3 periods of 20 minutes in Canadian leagues, but 4 quarters of 15 minutes in the National Lacrosse League (NLL) | 4 quarters of 15 minutes |
| Shot clock | Each team has a thirty second shot clock upon gaining possession, which is reset upon hitting the opposing teams goal frame or goalie. | Depending on level of play, Teams typically have a designated amount of time to cross the half line, and then an additional amount of time to either score or reset the shot clock upon hitting the opposing teams goal frame or goalie. |
| Scoring Area | Goals are 4 ft tall and 4 ft 9 in wide. They are positioned within the crease that is shaped in a semi circle (similar to hockey). Players can walk through the opposing crease, but must wait for a single pass to be made before receiving another pass. They also cannot be in the crease during a goal. | Goals are 6 ft tall and 6 ft wide and positioned in a circular crease. Players cannot step foot in the opposing teams crease on offense. Otherwise possession will immediately be awarded to the opposing team. |
Gameplay
| Offensive Play | Teams can use the walls for passing and play | No walls; play is confined to the field |
| Screens and Picks | Moving picks and screens are allowed and are often used to generate room for the offense. | Moving Picks and screens are not allowed, and the picking players feet must be set upon the pick being set. |
| Penalties | Minor penalties lead to 2-minute penalties served in the box, and Major Penalties lead to 5-minutes served | Varies by foul; some lead to free position, others to player serving time. |
| Offsides | All 6 players are allowed on any part of the floor (goalies are strategically subbed off in certain scenarios). | Only 6 players are allowed on one half of the field at a time, not including goalies. Attackmen and Defensemen usually wait on their respective sides of the field if the ball is in play on the other sides. |
| Shot Out of Bounds | If a shot goes out of bounds, possession is given to the opposing team unless deflected off of a defender. | If a shot goes out of bounds, the ball is awarded to the team nearest to the ball when it went out of bounds. |
| Body Contact | More physical contact allowed | Body checking allowed but regulated |
These differences illustrate the unique strategies and dynamics of each format, enhancing the game’s excitement and tactical depth. Whether played indoors or outdoors, the rules of lacrosse allow it to remain a thrilling and fast-paced sport.