BOTC - US Lacrosse Community Forum Forums LACROSSE LIBRARY RULES & REGULATIONS NEW BOYS YOUTH LAX RULES - 2018

NEW YOUTH LACROSSE RULE AND POINTS OF EMPHASIS FROM US LACROSSE

2018 MAJOR RULE CHANGES
For the 2018 season the Men’s Game Rules Subcommittee made a small number of revisions to the rules but made several clarifications based on questions that came in throughout the 2017 season. All rule revisions are listed below but both rule revisions and clari cations appear with a screen background through this rulebook. They also created a new appendix that lists several experimental rules for the teams, leagues, and tournaments to try that are being considered for the 2019 season.

(Game Format) – Rule Change
(All Levels) 4.8.1 - A goal shall be counted as long as the ball has been released from the players stick prior to the expiration of a period.
(All Levels) 5.7 - Contact of any degree made to an opponent head while actively making a stick check is a slashing penalty.
(All Levels) 5.10 - Spectators in addition to players, coaches, and team personnel can cause a time-serving unsportsmanlike penalty.
(6U, 8U, 10U, 12U) 1.2.1 – The Uni ed Small Sided Field Diagram is now an allowable alternative to the existing boys’ 60 x 35 yard field.
(6U, 8U, 10U, 12U) 4.31 – In the event that a loose ball cannot be picked up due to three or more players being caught
in a scrum or scramble of cials should wait approximately four seconds before stopping play and awarding the ball via alternate possession rules.
(10U, 12U, 14U) 5.10 – The second and subsequent violations by a team when their defensive player enters the crease and assumes the position of a goalie shall result in a releasable unsportsmanlike penalty served by the offending player.
BOYS’ YOUTH RULEBOOK | 5
(10U, 12U, 14U) 6.10 – When stalling rules are applied, they will remain in effective until a shot hits the goal pipe, goalie, or the goalie’s equipment in addition to the existing rules for stopping a stall warning.
(10U) 2.1.1 – A team may have a maximum of two players using long crosses (47-54 inches in length), not counting the goalkeeper’s crosse, in the game at any time.
(12U – 7 v 7 Format) 2.1.1 – A team may have a maximum of three players using long crosses (52-72 inches in length), not counting the goalkeeper’s crosse, in the game at any time.

2018 POINTS OF EMPHASIS

SPORTSMANSHIP – Players, coaches, of cials and spectators should exhibit the highest levels of sportsmanship and congeniality at all times. Coaches, of cials and spectators are all partners in providing the best possible experience for youth players. Unsportsmanlike conduct by coaches, players or spectators degrades the experience of youth players and discourages people from becoming or continuing as of cials or coaches. This behavior erodes the integrity and appeal of our sport. Therefore, unsportsmanlike conduct should not be tolerated. US Lacrosse expects of cials to enforce the unsportsmanlike conduct rules without hesitation.

STICK CHECKS TO THE HEAD – In youth lacrosse, stick contact to the head while actively making a stick check is a slash. This rule change will allow for more consistent penalty calling by of cials and helps mitigate injury risk since the minimum amount of force needed to cause a concussion is still unknown and concussions can occur at relatively low levels of force. Coaches are encouraged to teach controlled stick checking techniques and of cials are expected to penalize stick checks to the head with a minimum of a 1-minute releasable personal foul.

MOUTH GUARDS – In 2017, the foul for a mouth guard violation was changed from a personal foul to a technical foul to encourage penalty enforcement for those who violate the rule. Coaches should encourage players to wear mouth guards at all times and of cials are expected to call the foul.

AGE APPROPRIATE RULES - The US Lacrosse rules are supported by the concepts detailed in the Lacrosse Athlete Development Model (LADM). As such, players should be participating with age- appropriate rules which include, but are not limited to, field sizes, stick lengths, body contact and stick contact.
EXPERIMENTAL RULES - In order to test rule proposals submitted to US Lacrosse, the Men’s Rules Subcommittee encourages leagues and tournaments to try several experimental rules listed in Appendix VIII. Leagues and tournaments that have either positive or negative feedback on the experimental rules are encouraged to send their feedback to boysrules@uslacrosse.org with the words Experimental Rules in the subject heading.

6U BOYS’ LACROSSE
In the event situations or questions arise that are not directly addressed in the 6U Rules, the 14U Rules and Approved Rulings (ARs) shall apply. Please contact US Lacrosse if you would like additional clari cation.

Philosophy of 6U Lacrosse
6U lacrosse is the rst experience with the sport of lacrosse for many young athletes. The boys entering at this point have a vast difference in their physical and cognitive developments. The game they play should be designed to “level the playing field” and provide opportunity for any and every child that wants to participate. The emphasis at this age group should be to instill a love and excitement of playing, while developing fundamental movement skills that will be valuable in any future athletic endeavors.

Careful planning must be used to ensure that the environment is inclusive of all athletes, provides multiple opportunities for each athlete to “touch” the ball, encourages experimentation, and is a place that the athlete will want to come back to again and again, helping to develop physical literacy.

With respect to the competition at this level, coaches, parents, and officials should emphasize:
- FUN
- Simple rules of play
- Good Sportsmanship

2017 US LACROSSE 6U RULES
Age and Eligibility
Player must be 5 years old or younger on August 31 of the year preceding competition. It is recommended that when multiple teams exist within a program, administrators should consider the physical size, skill, and maturity when organizing teams. At no time should players younger than 4 years of age be permitted to play at the 6U level. Ideally, players should be playing in single age year classi cations.
6U BOYS’ GAME SUMMARY AND EQUIPMENT
3 v 3 play, with no goalkeepers
60 x 35 yard field, adjustable for local conditions
3’x3’ goals
No team timeouts
Mini stick type crosses recommended
Soft lacrosse balls
Mouth guards are mandatory. Lacrosse gloves and eyewear are optional. Helmets, shoulder pads, and arm guards are not permitted.
6U BOYS’ RULES OVERVIEW
No body contact allowed
No stick-on-stick or stick-on-body contact allowed
No faceoff
No offside
6U RULES BOYS’ YOUTH RULEBOOK | 9
1.1 - THE GAME
The purpose of each team is to score by causing the ball to enter the goal of its opponent and to prevent the other team from securing the ball and scoring.
1.2.1 - FIELD MEASUREMENTS
The playing field shall be rectangular, 60 -70 yards max in length and 35 - 45 yards in width.
1.2.6 - CENTER SPOT
The center of the field shall be marked by an approximately four inch circle, square or X.
1.2.8 & 1.2.9 - TEAM AREAS
The team areas (bench and coaches’ areas) are located on the same side of the field as one another. Each extends 12 yards from their goal line towards the mid line and 3 - 5 yards deep.
1.3B - GOAL CREASES
The goal creases shall be circular and painted on the field or marked with at disc cones, with a radius of 9 feet.

2017 US LACROSSE 6U RULES

1.3.1 - GOALS
A 3x3 foot goal with securely affixed netting on it that would not allow a ball to pass through it. The goal shall be centered in the goal crease.

Note: When various levels of play occur on the same field a 6 x 6 goal is permissible.

1.5.1 - THE BALL
It is recommended that a soft lacrosse ball or other soft athletic ball of similar or larger diameter be used (e.g. tennis ball). Standard lacrosse balls must not be used at this level.
1.6, 1.7, & 1.8 - THE LACROSSE STICK
Mini type lacrosse sticks should be used at this level of play.
Note: It is not recommended that players use a regulation lacrosse stick, but if used they should be cut-down so the entire length of the stick is less than the distance from the ground to the players waist.
1.9 - PLAYER EQUIPMENT
Teams shall have contrasting jersey or shirt colors. Eyewear and gloves are not required at this level of play but are allowable. All players must wear a mouth guard.
1.10 - PROHIBITED EQUIPMENT
Players are not permitted to wear helmets, arm pads, or shoulder pads.
RULE 2: Game Personnel 2.1.1 - NUMBER OF PLAYERS
Each team must field 3 players at all times. No goalkeepers are permitted.
2.1.3 - COACHES
Each team may have one coach roaming the field to instruct ALL the players in the game and serve as officials.

Note: If certified officials are used, coaches are restricted to their sideline and may roam the entire sideline of the field.

2.1.5 - OFFICIALS
Officials are not required for this level of play. However if officials are used, then only 1 certifed official is necessary per field of play.
2.7 - TIMEKEEPER
If of cials are used in a game they shall assume all timing responsibilities. If officials are not used then the head coaches shall designate a timekeeper.
2.8 - SCORE KEEPER
US Lacrosse does not recommend a visual score be kept, but a score book can be utilized to maintain statistics on the game for the purposes of tracking player development.
RULE 3: Time Factors 3.1 - LENGTH OF THE GAME
A competition will consist of (2) 12-minute running time halves, with a 4-minute halftime period.
3.4 - OVERTIME
Overtime shall not be played at this age level.
RULE 4: Play of the Game 4.1 - COIN TOSS
Prior to the start of play the of cial will call one player from each team and conduct a coin toss. The winner of the coin toss will start the competition with possession of the ball at the center spot. The loser of the coin toss will have the first Alternating Possession.
4.3 - FACING OFF
There are no faceoffs at this level of play.
4.4 - POSITIONING OF PLAYERS AND STARTING PLAY
The team that won the coin toss shall place one player at the Center Spot with the ball. All other players shall be on their defensive side of the Center Spot, with all players on the defensive team at least five yards from all players on the offensive team. No other player from the offensive team may be within five yards of the ball carrier.
4.6 - OUT OF BOUNDS AND BALL POSSESSION
Play shall be stopped immediately when the ball goes out of bounds. On a shot that goes out of bounds, possession is awarded to the team of the in-bounds player closest to location of the ball when it went out. When the ball goes out of bounds, for any other reason other than a shot, it is awarded to the team that did not touch the ball last.
4.7 - BALL CAUGHT IN CROSSE OR EQUIPMENT
If at any point the ball becomes stuck in a player’s crosse, the of cial or coach shall stop play immediately and award the ball to the opposing team.
4.8 - GOAL SCORED
A goal is scored when a loose ball passes completely over the goal line and into the goal.
4.15 - BODY CHECKING
Body to body contact is NOT permitted at 6U.
4.16 - CHECKING WITH CROSSE
Intentional crosse to body or crosse to crosse contact is not permitted at 6U.
4.18 - PLAY IN CREASE AREA AND 4.19 GOAL-CREASE PROHIBITIONS
No player from either team may enter the crease at any time at 6U. A player may reach their stick into the crease to play a loose ball.
4.21 - SUBSTITUTIONS PROCEDURES
Only whole-team substitution of all field players is permitted and shall occur after each goal is scored, or may occur during other dead ball situations. Exceptions are for injury substitutions or when a team does not have enough players for full-team substitution, in which case the coach may keep one or more players on the eld from the previous group. No live ball “on-the- y” substitutions are permitted.

Note: If there is an excessively long period of time without scoring or other dead ball situation (e.g., greater than 2 minutes), the coach on the field or official can suspend play at the rst natural stopping point and substitute for the on- field players. The team entitled to possession of the ball at the stoppage will retain possession after the stoppage.

4.22A - RESTARTING AFTER A GOAL IS SCORED
The official will remove the ball from the goal and place it on the ground along goal line extended. The ball is awarded to the team who was just scored upon and all players shall be a minimum of 5 yards away from the player with the ball.
4.22B - RESTARTS FOLLOWING A TIMEOUT
Restarts following a timeout shall be nearest the spot where the ball was at the time the whistle was blown or if that the ball is within fteen yards of the goal, it shall be restarted laterally five yards from the sideline nearest to the spot of the ball at the time of the whistle.
4.23 - CHANGE OF GOALS
Teams will not change goals between halves.
4.24 - OFFICIAL’S TIMEOUTS
An ofFIcial may suspend play at his discretion. If a player loses any of his mandatory personal equipment in a scrimmage area or a player is apparently injured, play shall be suspended immediately.
4.25 - TEAM TIMEOUTS
Team timeouts are not permitted at this level of play.
4.30 - ALTERNATE POSSESSION
When the of cials cannot determine which team should be awarded the ball or when play is stopped while the ball is loose, possession shall alternate . The referee shall keep track of the alternating possessions.
4.31 - SCRUM SITUATION
In the event that a loose ball cannot be quickly picked up due to 3 or more players in a “scrum” or becomes trapped by multiple sticks, the of cial shall stop play and award the ball via Alternating Possession Rules.

Note: Officials should give approximately 4 seconds for players to pick up the ball.

RULE 5: Personal and Ejection Fouls
Personal fouls are those of a serious nature. Personal fouls include either a safety or sportsmanship violation. In keeping with the overarching emphasis on player safety and sportsmanship at the youth level, US Lacrosse expects strict enforcement of the Cross Check, Illegal Body Check, Checks Involving The Head/Neck, Slashing, Unnecessary Roughness, and Unsportsmanlike Conduct rules.
PENALTY: The penalty for a personal foul shall be a stoppage of play, with the foul being explained to the player who then must leave the eld. The offending player may return on the next whole team substitution.
5.2 CROSS CHECK*
5.3 ILLEGAL BODY CHECK*

5.4 CHECKS INVOLVING THE HEAD/NECK*
5.5 ILLEGAL CROSSE*
5.6 USE OF ILLEGAL EQUIPMENT*
5.7 SLASHING*
5.8 TRIPPING*
5.9 UNNECESSARY ROUGHNESS* 5.10 UNSPORTSMANLIKE CONDUCT* 5.11 FOULING OUT *
5.12 EJECTION*
*The definition for each foul is listed in Appendix I.
RULE 6: Technical Fouls
Technical fouls are those of a less serious nature and involve players being illegally disadvantaged or gaining an unfair advantage over another player.
PENALTY: The penalty for a technical foul shall be a stoppage of play and possession awarded to the offended team.
6.2 CREASE VIOLATIONS/GOALKEEPER INTERFERENCE*
6.3 HOLDING*
6.4 ILLEGAL OFFENSIVE SCREENING*
6.5 ILLEGAL PROCEDURE*
6.6 CONDUCT FOUL*
6.7 INTERFERENCE*
6.9 PUSHING*
6.11 WARDING OFF*
6.12 WITHHOLDING BALL FROM PLAY*
*The definition for each foul is listed in Appendix I.
RULE 7: PENATLY ENFORCEMENT
7. 1 - PERSONAL FOUL ENFORCEMENT PENALTY
Personal fouls will result in an immediate stoppage of play, with the foul being explained to the player who then must leave the field. They may return on the next whole team substitution. At no time should either team be playing with fewer players than their opponent.
7.2 - TECHNICAL FOUL ENFORCEMENT PENALTY
Technical fouls will result in an immediate stoppage of play, with the foul being explained to the player and the ball being awarded to the offended team.
7.3 - RESUMING PLAY AFTER PENALTY
When a penalty occurs and the ball is in the offended team’s offensive half of the eld, the ball shall be put in play by the team awarded the ball at the spot where the ball was when play was suspended. If the ball was within fteen yards of the goal when play was suspended, it shall be restarted laterally five yards from the sideline nearest to the spot of the ball at the time of the whistle. If the ball has crossed the end line prior to the penalty occurring, the ball shall be restarted at that spot.
When a penalty occurs and the ball is in the offended team’s defensive half of the eld and a penalty is to be served, the ball shall be awarded to any player of the offended team in its offensive side of the eld at the Center Spot. When no penalty time is to be served, the ball will be put in play at the spot the ball was when the whistle was blown.
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8U BOYS’ LACROSSE
In the event situations or questions arise that are not directly addressed in the 8U Rules, the 14U Rules and Approved Rulings (ARs) shall apply. Please contact US Lacrosse if this occurs or if you would like additional clari cation.
PHILOSOPHY OF 8U LACROSSE
8U lacrosse is many young athletes rst experience with the sportof lacrosse. The boys entering at this point have a vast difference in their physical and cognitive development. The game they play should be designed to level the playing field. Every effort should be made so kids have the opportunity to play and develop the fundamental skills of lacrosse. The emphasis at this age group is on instilling a love and excitement of playing, while developing the fundamental athletic skills that will be valuable in any future athletic endeavors.
Careful planning must be used to ensure that the environment is inclusive of all athletes, provides multiple opportunities for each athlete to “touch” the ball, encourages experimentation, and is a place that the athlete will want to come back to again & again.
With respect to the competition at this level, coaches, parents, and officials should emphasize:
- FUN
- Introduce basic lacrosse concepts - Explore competition in lacrosse
- Basic rules of play
- Good sportsmanship
AGE AND ELIGIBILITY
Player must be 7 years old or younger on August 31 of the year preceding competition. It is recommended that when multiple teams exist within a program, administrators should consider the physical size, skill, and maturity when selecting teams. At no time should players younger than 6 years of age be permitted to play at the 8U level. Ideally, players should be playing in single age classifications.
8U BOYS’ GAME FORMAT SUMMARY AND EQUIPMENT
4 v 4 play, 1 goalkeeper plus 3 eld players
60 x 35 yard eld
3’x3’ goals
Helmets, shoulder pads, arm guards, lacrosse gloves, mouth guard, protective cups required
Soft lacrosse balls
No team timeouts

8U BOYS’ RULES OVERVIEW
No body checking but some contact is allowed
Only stick checks permitted are (1) lift checks (2) poke checks (3) downward stick checks below both players shoulders
No faceoff
No offsides

1.1 - THE GAME
The purpose of each team is to score by causing the ball to enter the goal of its opponent and to prevent the other team from securing the ball and scoring.
1.2.1 - THE FIELD MEASUREMENTS
The playing field shall be rectangular, 60 -70 yards max in length and 35 - 45 yards in width.
1.2.6 - CENTER SPOT
The center of the field shall be marked by approximately a four inch circle, square or X
1.2.1.8 & 1.2.1.9 - TEAM AREAS
The team areas (bench and coaches’ areas) are located on the same side of the field as one another. Each extends 12 yards from their goal line towards the mid line and 3 - 5 yards deep.
1.3B - GOAL CREASES
The goal creases shall be circular and painted on the field or marked with at disc cones, with a radius of 9’ feet.
1.3.1 - GOALS
A 3x3 foot goal with securely affixed netting on it that would not allow a ball to pass through it. The goal shall be centered in the goal crease.
Note: When various levels of play occur on the same eld, the goal speci cations (6 x 6 foot goal) is permissible.
1.5.1 - THE BALL
It is recommended that a soft lacrosse ball or other soft athletic ball of similar or larger diameter be used (e.g. tennis ball). Standard lacrosse balls must not be used at this level.
1.6, 1.7, & 1.8 - THE CROSSE DIMENSIONS, CONSTRUCTION, PROHIBITIONS
See Appendix V - Ball and Crosse Specifications
1.6, 1.7, & 1.8 - THE GOALKEEPER CROSSE
See Appendix V - Ball and Crosse Speci cations
1.9A - FIELD PLAYER EQUIPMENT
All field players shall have (1) A lacrosse helmet that meets NOCSAE ND041 at the time of manufacture and has a permanent, replica of the NOCSAE lacrosse seal appearing legibly on the exterior of the helmet shell, (2) An Intra-oral mouth protector (mouth piece), (3) Protective gloves designed for boys’ lacrosse (4) Shoulder pads designed for boy’s lacrosse, (5) Athletic cleats or athletic shoes, (6) Arm pads designed for lacrosse, (7) A jersey and shorts of the same color(s) as their teammates, (8) Athletic protective cup.

Note: Rib pads are recommended but not required pieces of equipment.

1.9B - GOALIE EQUIPMENT
All goalies shall have (1) A lacrosse helmet that meets NOCSAE ND041 at the time of manufacture and has a permanent, replica of the NOCSAE lacrosse seal appearing legibly on the exterior of the helmet shell, (2) A throat protector designed for lacrosse (3) An Intra-oral mouth protector (mouth piece), (4) Protective gloves designed for boy’s lacrosse (5) Goalie chest protector designed for lacrosse, (6) Athletic cleats or athletic shoes, (7) Athletic protective cup, (8) A jersey and shorts of the same color as their teammates.

Note: Recommended but not required pieces of equipment (1) Arm pads designed for lacrosse and (2) Shin, knee, and thigh pads that may be worn so long as they do not significantly increase the size of the limb protected (e.g., no ice hockey, field hockey, or box lacrosse goalie pads).

RULE 2: GAME PERSONNEL 2.1.1 - NUMBER OF PLAYERS
4v4 Format
4 players - 1 Goalie and 3 Field Players
No Long Poles
A team shall begin the game with at least 4 players or it forfeits the game

Note: If no goalies are available or used then both teams should play with 4 field players and no goalies.

2.1.3 – COACHES
Each team may have one coach roaming the field to instruct ALL the players in the game and serve as officials.

Note: If a certified official is used, coaches are restricted to their sideline and may roam the entire length of the field.

2.1.5 - OFFICIALS
Officials are not required for this level of play. However if officials are used, then only 1 certified official is necessary per field of play.
2.7 - TIMEKEEPER
If officials are used in a game they shall assume all timing responsibilities. If officials are not used then the coaches shall designate a timekeeper.
2.8 - SCORE KEEPER
US Lacrosse does not recommend a visual score be kept, but a score book can be utilized to maintain statistics on the game for the purposes of tracking player development.
RULE 3: TIME FACTORS 3.1 - LENGTH OF THE GAME
A competition will consist of (2) 12-minute running time halves, with a 4-minute halftime period.
3.4 - OVERTIME
Overtime shall not be played at 8U.
RULE 4: Play of the Game 4.1 - COIN TOSS
Prior to the start of play the “official” will call one player from each team and conduct a coin toss. The winner of the coin toss will start the competition with possession of the ball at the center spot. The loser of the coin toss will have the rst Alternating Possession.
4.2 - PLAYER LINE-UP
Before the start of play the of cial shall bring all the players on both teams in lines facing each other at the center of the field, with their left sides toward the goal they are defending, and explain any special ground rules, emphasize safety, fair play, and sportsmanship.
4.3 - FACING OFF
There are no faceoffs at this level of play. (See 4.1)
4.4 - POSITIONING OF PLAYERS AND STARTING PLAY
The team that won the coin toss shall place one player at the Center Spot with the ball. All other players shall be on their defensive side of the Center Spot, with all players on the defensive team at least five yards from all players on the offensive team.
4.6 - OUT OF BOUNDS AND BALL POSSESSION
Play shall be stopped immediately when the ball goes out of bounds. On a shot that goes out of bounds, possession is awarded to the team of the in-bounds player closest to location of the ball when it went out. When the ball goes out of bounds, for any
other reason other than a shot, it is awarded to the team that did not touch the ball last.
4.7 - BALL CAUGHT IN CROSS OR EQUIPMENT
If at any point the ball becomes stuck in a players crosse the of cial or coach shall stop play immediately and award the ball to the opposing team.
Note: Neither situation above applies to a designated goalkeeper if he is within his goal-crease area at the time the ball becomes stuck. In this case, a defensive player shall be awarded the ball laterally outside the goal area.
4.8 - GOAL SCORED
A goal is scored when a loose ball passes completely over the goal line and into the goal.
4.8.1 - GOAL NOT SCORED
(a) When from a shot that was released after time had expired in a period.
(b) A player from the attacking team has committed a foul
(c) The goal scorer stick is found to be illegal.
4.10 - OFFSIDE
There is no penalty for offside at this level. All players are free to roam the field.
4.15 - ALLOWABLE BODY CONTACT
Examples of permitted body contact are:
(a) Legal holds – Holding is permitted under the following conditions
(1) An opponent with possession of the ball or within 3 yards of a loose ball may be held from the front or side.
(2) An opponent in possession of the ball may be played with a hold check from the rear if the hold exerts no more than equal pressure. For (1) and (2), a hold check shall be done with closed hand, shoulder or forearm; and both hands shall be on the crosse.
(3) A player may hold the crosse of an opponent with his crosse when that opponent has possession of the ball.
(4) A player within 3 yards of a loose ball may hold the crosse of his opponent with his own crosse.
(b) Legal pushes – A legal push is exerting pressure after contact is made and is not a violent blow. Pushing is permitted from the front or side when an opponent has possession of the ball or is within 3 yards of a loose ball. In this case, pushing shall be done with either closed hands, shoulder, or forearm, and both hands shall be on the crosse.
(c) Positioning yourself against an opponent to gain possession of a loose ball (boxing out an opponent)
(d) Defensive positioning to redirect an opponent possession of the ball (riding a player)
(e) Incidental contact

4.16 - CHECKING WITH CROSSE
In all cases, stick checks must be made with two hands on the crosse and to the crosse of an opponent or his gloved hand on his crosse. An opponent must be in possession of the ball or within 3 yards of a loose ball. Only checks with the crosse listed below are legal:
(a) Lift the bottom hand or the head of the stick, whichever is below the chest area.
(b) Poke the bottom hand or the head of the stick, whichever is below the chest area.
(c) Downward check initiated from below both players’ shoulders.

4.18 - GOAL-CREASE PRIVILEGES AND 4.19 - GOAL-CREASE PROHIBITIONS
No offensive player may enter the crease at any time. Offensive players may reach their stick into the crease to collect a loose ball. Defensive players are allowed to be in or pass through the crease as long as they are not in the crease with the perceived intention of blocking a shot. The only player who can attempt to block a shot is a legally equipped goalkeeper. No opposing player shall make contact with the goalkeeper or his crosse while he is within the goal-crease area.
4.21 - SUBSTITUTIONS PROCEDURES
Only whole-team substitution of all eld players is permitted and shall occur after each goal is scored, or may occur during other dead ball situations. Exceptions are for injury substitutions or when a team does not have enough players for full-team substitution, in which case the coach may keep one or more players on the eld from the previous group. No live ball “on-the- y” substitutions are permitted.

Note: If there is an excessively long period of time without scoring or other dead ball situation (e.g., greater than 2 minutes), the coach on the field or official can suspend play at the rst natural stopping point to allow substitution of field players. The team entitled to possession of the ball at the stoppage will retain possession after the stoppage.

4.22 - RESTARTING PLAY
(A) Post-Goal: The goalie or of cial will remove the ball from the goal and it will be given to the team that was scored on along the goal line extended. The whistle will be blown by the of cial and play will resume.
(B) After a Timeout: Restarts following a timeout shall be nearest the spot where the ball was at the time the whistle was blown or if that the ball is within 15 yards of the goal, it shall be restarted laterally 5 yards from the sideline nearest to the spot of the ball at the time of the whistle.
(C) To Start a New Quarter or Half: The team that is entitled to the ball via alternating possession will start with the ball at mid eld.
4.23 - CHANGE OF GOALS
Teams will not change goals between halves at 8U lacrosse
4.24 - OFFICIAL’S TIMEOUTS
An official may suspend play at his discretion. If a player loses any of his mandatory personal equipment in a scrimmage area or a player is apparently injured, play shall be suspended immediately.
4.25 - TIMEOUTS
There are no team timeouts permitted and the clock shall only stop in the event of injury or at the official’s discretion. Injured players must leave the field until the next scheduled substitution and shall be replaced by another player.
4.30 - ALTERNATE POSSESSION
When the officials cannot determine which team should be awarded the ball or when play is stopped while the ball is loose, possession shall alternate. The referee shall keep track of the alternating possessions.
4.32 - SCRUM SITUATION
In the event that a loose ball cannot be quickly picked up due to 3 or more players in a “scrum” or becomes trapped by multiple sticks, the of cial shall stop play and award the ball via Alternating Possession Rules.

Note: Officials should give approximately 4 seconds for players to pick up the ball.

RULE 5: Personal and Ejection Fouls
Personal fouls are those of a serious nature. Personal fouls include either a safety or sportsmanship violation. In keeping with the overarching emphasis on player safety and sportsmanship at the youth level, US Lacrosse expects strict enforcement of the Cross Check, Illegal Body Check, Checks Involving The Head/Neck, Slashing, Unnecessary Roughness, and Unsportsmanlike Conduct rules.
PENALTY: The penalty for a personal foul shall be a stoppage of play, with the foul being explained to the player who then must leave the eld. The offending player may return on the next whole team substitution.
5.2 CROSS CHECK*
5.3 ILLEGAL BODY CHECK*
5.4 CHECKS INVOLVING THE HEAD/NECK*
5.5 ILLEGAL CROSSE*
5.6 USE OF ILLEGAL EQUIPMENT*
5.7 SLASHING*
5.8 TRIPPING*
5.9 UNNECESSARY ROUGHNESS*
5.10 UNSPORTSMANLIKE CONDUCT*
5.11 FOULING OUT *
5.12 EJECTION*
*The definition for each foul is listed in Appendix I.
RULE 6: TECHNICAL FOULS
Technical fouls are those of a less serious nature and involve players being illegally disadvantaged or gaining an unfair advantage over another player.
PENALTY: The penalty for a technical foul shall be a stoppage of play and possession awarded to the offended team.
6.2 CREASE VIOLATIONS/GOALKEEPER INTERFERENCE*
6.3 HOLDING*
6.4 ILLEGAL OFFENSIVE SCREENING*
6.5 ILLEGAL PROCEDURE*
6.6 CONDUCT FOUL*
6.7 INTERFERENCE*
6.9 PUSHING*
6.11 WARDING OFF*
6.12 WITHHOLDING BALL FROM PLAY*
*The definition for each foul is listed in Appendix I.

RULE 7: PENALTY ENFORCEMENT

7.1 - PERSONAL FOUL ENFORCEMENT PENALTY
If a personal foul is committed while the offended team is in possession of the ball, the Slow-Whistle Technique will be applied, if appropriate, after which the foul will be explained to the offending player who then must leave the field. Personal fouls committed in a loose ball situation or when the offending team is in possession of the ball will result in an immediate stoppage of play, with the foul being explained to the player who then must leave the eld. In either case a substitute will replace the offending player immediately.
At no time shall either team play with fewer players than their opponent. The offending player may return on the next whole team substitution.
7.2 - TECHNICAL FOUL ENFORCEMENT PENALTY
Technical fouls committed in a loose ball situation or when the offending team is in possession of the ball will result in an immediate stoppage of play, with the foul being explained to the offending player and the ball awarded to the offended team. If the offended team is in possession of the ball, the Slow-Whistle Technique will be applied, if appropriate, after which the foul will be explained to the offending player and the ball awarded to the offended team, unless a goal has been scored.
RULE 8: Game Termination See Rule 8 in 14U rules.
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
10U BOYS’ LACROSSE
In the event situations or questions arise that are not directly addressed in the 10U Rules, the 14U Rules and Approved Rulings (ARs) shall apply. Please contact US Lacrosse if this occurs or if you would like additional clari cation.
PHILOSOPHY OF 10U LACROSSE
10U lacrosse is where young athletes begin developing fundamental technical skills in lacrosse. The boys entering the sport at this point have a vast difference in their physical and cognitive development and the game they play should be designed to develop a combination of athletic movement skills, and fundamental technical skills for playing lacrosse. The emphasis at this age group is on instilling a love and excitement of playing, while developing the fundamental athletic skills that will be valuable in any future athletic endeavors.
Careful planning must be used to ensure that the environment is inclusive of all athletes, provides multiple opportunities for each athlete to “touch” the ball, encourages experimentation, and a progressive development of existing technical skills. Athletes should be coached to have a “Growth Mindset” by having effort is praised ahead of results.
With respect to the competition at this level, coaches, parents, and officials should emphasize:
- FUN
- Trying new skills in a team setting
- Learning and exploring overall play of the game - Sportsmanship

AGE AND ELIGIBILITY
Player must be 9 years old or younger on August 31 of the year preceding competition. It is recommended that when multiple teams exist within a program, administrators should consider the physical size, skill, and maturity when selecting teams. At no time should players younger than 8 years of age be permitted to play at the 10U level. Ideally, players should be playing in single age classi cations.
10U BOYS’ GAME FORMAT SUMMARY AND EQUIPMENT
6 v 6 play, 1 goalkeeper plus 5 field players
60 x 35 yard
6 x 6 goals
Helmets, shoulder pads, arm guards, lacrosse gloves, mouth guard, protective cups required
NOCSAE lacrosse balls
No team timeouts

10U BOYS’ RULES OVERVIEW
No body checking but some contact is allowed
Only stick checks permitted are (1) lift checks (2) poke checks (3) downward stick checks below both players shoulders
Faceoffs with no players releasing from wing area
No offsides
Time serving fouls

RULE 1: The Game, Field, and Equipment THE FIELD DIAGRAM
(Go to uslacrosse.org to see the FD)
1.1 - THE GAME
The purpose of each team is to score by causing the ball to enter the goal of its opponent and to prevent the other team from securing the ball and scoring.
1.2.1 - THE FIELD MEASUREMENTS
The playing field shall be rectangular, 60 -70 yards max in length and 35 - 45 yards in width.

Note: There are additional approved eld dimensions speci c to age groups, please refer to Appendix VI.

1.2.6 - CENTER SPOT
The center of the eld shall be marked by approximately a four inch circle, square or X
1.2.1.8 & 1.2.1.9 - TEAM AREAS
The team areas (bench and coaches’ areas) are located on the same side of the field as one another. Each extends 12 yards from their goal line towards the mid line and 3 - 5 yards deep.
1.3B - GOAL CREASES
The goal creases shall be circular and painted on the field or marked with at disc cones, with a radius of 9’ feet.
1.3.1 - GOALS
A 6x6 foot goal with securely af xed netting that will not permit the ball to pass though may be used. A 2 foot drop net is recommended to reduce the height of the goal opening to 4 feet. If a drop net is used it should be constructed of a material that minimizes rebounds to protect the goalkeeper. The goal shall be centered within the goal crease. Programs may opt to utilize 4x4 feet or construct their own goals of a size up to 5 x 5 feet.
1.5.1 - THE BALL
Lacrosse balls that meet the current NOCSAE ND049 standard shall be used in all games.
1.6, 1.7, & 1.8 - THE CROSSE DIMENSIONS, CONSTRUCTION, PROHIBITIONS
See Appendix V - Ball and Crosse Speci cations
1.6, 1.7, & 1.8 - THE GOALKEEPER CROSSE
See Appendix V - Ball and Crosse Specifications

1.9A - FIELD PLAYER EQUIPMENT
All field players shall have (1) A lacrosse helmet that meets NOCSAE ND041 at the time of manufacture and has a permanent, replica of the NOCSAE lacrosse seal appearing legibly on the exterior of the helmet shell, (2) An Intra- oral mouth protector (mouth piece), (3) Protective gloves designed for boy’s lacrosse (4) Shoulder pads designed for boy’s lacrosse, (5) Athletic cleats or athletic shoes, (6) Arm pads designed for lacrosse, (7) A jersey and shorts of the same color(s) as their teammates, (8) Athletic protective cup.
1.9B - GOALIE EQUIPMENT
All goalies shall have (1) A lacrosse helmet that meets NOCSAE ND041 at the time of manufacture and has a permanent, replica of the NOCSAE lacrosse seal appearing legibly on the exterior of the helmet shell, (2) A throat protector designed for lacrosse (3) An Intra-oral mouth protector (mouth piece), (4) Protective gloves designed for boy’s lacrosse (5) Goalie chest protector designed for lacrosse, (6) Athletic cleats or athletic shoes, (7) Athletic protective cup, (8) A jersey and shorts of the same color as their teammates.

Note: Recommended but not required pieces of equipment (1) Arm pads designed for lacrosse and (2) Shin, knee, and thigh pads that may be worn so long as they do not signi cantly increase the size of the limb protected (e.g., no ice hockey, eld hockey, or box lacrosse goalie pads).

RULE 2: GAME PERSONNEL 2.1.1 - NUMBER OF PLAYERS
6v6 Format
6 Players - 1 Goalie and 5 Field Players
Max 2 Long Poles on the eld (47” - 54”)
A team shall begin the game with at least 6 players or it forfeits the game

Note: If no goalies are available or used then both teams should play with 5 eld players and no goalies.

2.1.3 - COACHES
If a certified of cial is used, coaches are restricted to their sideline and may roam the entire length of the eld but not through the opposing team’s bench area or the timer’s/penalty area.
2.1.5 - OFFICIALS
Officials are not required for this level of play. However if officials are used, then only 1 certified of cial is necessary per field of play.
2.7 - TIMEKEEPER
If officials are used in a game they shall assume all timing responsibilities. If offcials are not used then the head coaches shall designate a timekeeper.
2.8 - SCORE KEEPER
US Lacrosse does not recommend a visual score be kept, but a score book can be utilized to maintain statistics on the game for the purposes of tracking player development.


RULE 3: Time Factors 3.1 - LENGTH OF THE GAME
A competition will consist of (4) 8-minute running time quarters, with a 2 minute break between each quarter.
3.4 – OVERTIME
Overtime shall not be played at 10U
RULE 4: Play of the Game 4.1 - COIN TOSS
A coin-toss will be used to determine rst alternating possession or choice of goal.
4.2 - PLAYER LINE-UP
Before the start of play the of cial shall bring all the players on both teams in lines facing each other at the center of the eld, with their left sides toward the goal they are defending, and explain any special ground rules, emphasize safety, fair play, and sportsmanship. After the lineup, all the players other than the starters will return to their team areas.
4.3 - FACING OFF
Play shall start at the beginning of each period and after each goal with a faceoff at the center spot. The of cial will conduct a faceoff with one player from each team.
2017 US LACROSSE 10U RULES
4.4 - POSITIONING OF PLAYERS AND STARTING PLAY
A team shall place one face-off player at the center of the field and con ne at least 2 players behind each goal line extended. Goalkeepers are con ned to their crease during a face-off. All players are released when possession is gained or the ball crosses a goal line extended.
4.6 - OUT OF BOUNDS AND BALL POSSESSION
Play shall be stopped immediately when the ball goes out of bounds. On a shot that goes out of bounds, possession is awarded to the team of the in-bounds player closes to location of the ball when it went out. When the ball goes out of bounds, for any other reason other than a shot, it is awarded to the team that did not touch the ball last. In all non-faceoff starts and restarts, all players must be at least five yards from the player starting with the ball.
4.7 - BALL CAUGHT IN CROSS OR EQUIPMENT
If at any point the ball becomes stuck in a players crosse or equipment, the play shall stop immediately and award the ball to the opposing team.

Note: Neither situation above applies to a designated goalkeeper if he is within his goal-crease area at the time the ball becomes stuck. In this case, a defensive player shall be awarded the ball laterally outside the goal area.

4.8 - GOAL SCORED
A goal is scored when a loose ball passes completely over the goal line and into the goal.
4.8.1 - GOAL NOT SCORED
(a) When from a shot that was released after time had expired in a period.
(b) A player from the attacking team has committed a foul
(c) The goal scorer stick is found to be illegal.
4.10 - OFFSIDE
There is no penalty for offside at this level. All players are free to roam the eld.
4.15 - ALLOWABLE BODY CONTACT
Examples of permitted body contact are:
(a) Legal holds – Holding is permitted under the following conditions
(1) An opponent with possession of the ball or within 3 yards of a loose ball may be held from the front or side.
(2) An opponent in possession of the ball may be played with a hold check from the rear if the hold exerts no more than equal pressure. For (1) and (2), a hold check shall be done with closed hand, shoulder or forearm; and both hands shall be on the crosse.
(3) A player may hold the crosse of an opponent with his crosse when that opponent has possession of the ball.
(4) A player within 3 yards of a loose ball may hold the crosse of his opponent with his own crosse.
(b) Legal pushes – A legal push is exerting pressure after contact is made and is not a violent blow. Pushing is permitted from the front or side when an opponent has possession of the ball or is within 3 yards of a loose ball. In this case, pushing shall be done with either closed hands, shoulder, or forearm, and both hands shall be on the crosse
(c) Positioning yourself against an opponent to gain possession of a loose ball (boxing out an opponent)
(d) Defensive positioning to redirect an opponent in possession of the ball (riding a player)
(e) Incidental contact

4.16 - CHECKING WITH CROSSE
In all cases, stick checks must be made with two hands on the crosse and to the crosse of an opponent or his gloved hand on his crosse. An opponent must be in possession of the ball or within 3 yards of a loose ball. Only checks with the crosse listed below are legal:
(a) Lift the bottom hand, shaft, or the head of the stick, whichever is below the chest area.
(b) Poke the bottom hand, shaft, or the head of the stick, whichever is below the chest area.
(c) Downward check initiated from below both players’ shoulders.
4.18 - GOAL CREASE PRIVILEGES AND 4.19 GOAL-CREASE PROHIBITIONS
No offensive player may enter the crease at any time. Offensive players may reach their stick into the crease for the sole purpose of collecting a loose ball. Defensive players are allowed to be in or pass through the crease as along as they are not in the crease with the perceived intention of blocking a shot. The only player who can attempt to block a shot is a legally equipped goalkeeper. Additionally, no opposing player shall make contact with the goalkeeper or his crosse while he is within the goal-crease area.
4.21 - SUBSTITUTIONS PROCEDURES
Only whole-team substitution of all eld players is permitted and shall occur after each goal is scored, or may occur during other dead ball situations. Exceptions are for injury substitutions or when a team does not have enough players for full-team substitution, in which case the coach may keep one or more players on the eld from the previous group. No live ball “on-the- y” substitutions are permitted.
Note: If there is an excessively long period of time without scoring or other dead ball situation (e.g., greater than 2 minutes), play can be suspended at the rst natural stopping point to allow substitution of eld players. The team entitled to possession of the ball at the stoppage will retain possession after the stoppage.
4.22 - RESTARTS FOLLOWING A TIMEOUT
Restarts following a timeout shall be nearest the spot where the ball was at the time the whistle was blown or if that the ball is within fteen yards of the goal, it shall be restarted laterally five yards from the sideline nearest to the spot of the ball at the time of the whistle.

4.23 - CHANGE OF GOALS
Teams will change goals between quarters at 10U lacrosse
4.24 - OFFICIAL’S TIMEOUTS
An official may suspend play at his discretion. If a player loses any of his mandatory personal equipment in a scrimmage area or a player is apparently injured, play shall be suspended immediately.
4.25 - TIMEOUTS - No team timeouts permitted at 10U. 4.30 - ALTERNATE POSSESSION
When the officials cannot determine which team should be awarded the ball possession shall alternate. The referee shall keep track of the alternating possessions.
4.32 - SCRUM SITUATION
In the event that a loose ball cannot be quickly picked up due to 3 or more players in a “scrum” or becomes trapped by multiple sticks, the of cial shall stop play and award the ball via Alternating Possession Rules.

Note: Officials should give approximately 4 seconds for players to pick up the ball.

RULE 5: PERSONAL FOULS
Personal fouls are those of a serious nature. Personal fouls include either a safety or sportsmanship violation. In keeping with the overarching emphasis on player safety and sportsmanship at the youth level, US Lacrosse expects strict enforcement of the Cross Check, Illegal Body Check, Checks Involving The Head/Neck, Slashing, Unnecessary Roughness, and Unsportsmanlike Conduct rules.
PENALTY: The penalty for a personal foul shall be suspension from the game of the offending player for 1, 2, or 3 minutes, depending on the of cial’s judgment of the severity and perceived intent of the personal foul. The ball shall be given to the team fouled.
EXCEPTION 1: The penalty for personal fouls 5.3 ILLEGAL BODY CHECKS (to a defenseless player) and 5.4 CHECKS INVOLVING THE HEAD/NECK are automatically 2 or 3 minute non releasable fouls.
5.2 CROSS CHECK*
5.3 ILLEGAL BODY CHECK*
5.4 CHECKS INVOLVING THE HEAD/NECK*
5.5 ILLEGAL CROSSE*
5.6 USE OF ILLEGAL EQUIPMENT*
5.7 SLASHING*
5.8 TRIPPING*
5.9 UNNECESSARY ROUGHNESS*
5.10 UNSPORTSMANLIKE CONDUCT*
5.11 FOULING OUT*
5.12 EJECTION*
*The definition for each foul is listed in Appendix I.
RULE 6: TECHNICAL FOULS
Technical fouls are those of a less serious nature and involve players being illegally disadvantaged or gaining an unfair advantage over another player.
PENALTY: The penalty for a technical foul shall be either a 30-second suspension of the offending player from the game (if the team fouled had possession of the ball at the time the foul was committed) or simply the awarding of the ball to the team fouled (if the team fouled did not have possession of the ball at the time the foul was committed).
EXCEPTION: A loose-ball technical foul by Team B followed by a personal foul by Team A during the play-on will result in both players serving penalty time.
6.2 CREASE VIOLATIONS/GOALKEEPER INTERFERENCE*
6.3 HOLDING*
6.4 ILLEGAL OFFENSIVE SCREENING*
6.5 ILLEGAL PROCEDURE*
6.6 CONDUCT FOUL*
6.7 INTERFERENCE*
6.9 PUSHING*
6.11 WARDING OFF*
6.12 WITHHOLDING BALL FROM PLAY*
*The definition for each foul is listed in Appendix I.
RULE 7: Penalty Enforcement
In 10U running time games, penalties will also be running time, and will begin with the next whistle resuming play. The running time penalty clock will stop for all timeouts and at the end of periods.
7.1 - PERSONAL FOUL ENFORCEMENT PENALTY
The penalty for a personal foul shall be suspension of the offending player from the game for 1, 2, or 3 minutes, depending on the official’s judgment of the severity and perceived intent of the personal foul. A body or stick check to the head, neck, or a body check hit to a defenseless player shall be a 2 or 3 minute, non releasable, personal foul.

NOTE: The penalty for an exceptionally violent personal foul may be expulsion.

Upon suspension of play for a personal foul, the of cial will explain the foul to the offending player, who then will leave the eld and report immediately to the penalty area. The ball shall be awarded to the fouled team and the offending player may re-enter the game when his penalty time has expired or a goal has been scored.

7.2 - TECHNICAL FOUL ENFORCEMENT PENALTY
The penalty for a technical foul will be shall be either:
a) Award of the ball to the offended team if the foul occurred during a loose ball situation or when the offending team had possession of the ball.
b) Suspension from the game of the offending player for 30 seconds if the foul occurred when the offended team had possession of a live ball.
Upon suspension of play for a technical foul, the of cial will explain the foul to the offending player who, if it is a time serving technical foul, will then leave the eld and report immediately to the penalty area. The ball shall be awarded to the fouled team and the offending player may re-enter the game when their penalty time has expired or a goal has been scored.
7.8 - SLOW-WHISTLE TECHNIQUE
Personal fouls and technical fouls will be enforced using the Slow- Whistle Technique if appropriate.
RULE 8: Game Termination See Rule 8 in 14U rules.
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
12U BOYS’ LACROSSE
In the event situations or questions arise that are not directly addressed in the 10U Rules, the 14U Rules and Approved Rulings (ARs) shall apply. Please contact US Lacrosse if this occurs or if you would like additional clari cation.
Philosophy of 12U Lacrosse
12U lacrosse is where young athletes are honing their technical skills and begin building the tactical skills needed in lacrosse. The boys entering the sport at this point have a vast difference in their physical and cognitive development and the game they play should be designed to reinforce fundamental technical skills and practical tactical applications for playing lacrosse. Essentially, they are preparing to be competitors.
Careful planning must be used to ensure that the environment is inclusive of all athletes, provides multiple opportunities for each athlete to “touch” the ball, encourages experimentation, and a progressive development of existing technical skills. Additionally, the technical skills they are honing, are now being applied to the tactical aspect of the game. Athletes should be coached to have a “Growth Mindset” by having effort praised ahead of results.
With respect to the competition at this level, coaches, parents, and of cials should emphasize:
- FUN
- Using technical skills in game situations
- Exploring and applying new tactical skills - Sportsmanship

AGE AND ELIGIBILITY
Player must be 11 years old or younger on August 31 of the year preceding competition. It is recommended that when multiple teams exist within a program, administrators should consider the physical size, skill, and maturity when selecting teams. At no time should players younger than 10 years of age be permitted to play at the 12U level. Ideally, players should be playing in single age classi cations.
12U BOYS’ GAME FORMAT SUMMARY AND EQUIPMENT
10 v 10 or 7 v 7
110 x 60 yard eld (10 v 10) or 60 x 35 yard eld (7 v 7)
6 x 6 goals
Helmets, shoulder pads, arm guards, lacrosse gloves, mouth guard, protective cups required
NOCSAE lacrosse balls
2 Team timeouts per half

12U BOYS’ RULES OVERVIEW
No body checking but some contact is allowed
Only stick checks permitted are (1) lift checks (2) poke checks (3) downward stick checks below both players shoulders
Faceoffs with 1 player releasing from wing area for each team
Offsides is a technical foul at this age level
RULE 1: The Game, Field, and Equipment THE FIELD DIAGRAMS
(see uslacrosse.org for TFD)
1.1 - THE GAME
The purpose of each team is to score by causing the ball to enter the goal of its opponent and to prevent the other team from securing the ball and scoring.
1.2.1 - THE FIELD MEASUREMENTS
The playing eld shall be rectangular, 110- 120 yards max in length and 60 - 70 yards in width, if playing 10 v 10 or 60 -70 yards max in length and 35 - 45 yards max in width ,if teams are playing 7 v 7 the Cross eld dimensions shall be. The boundaries of the field shall be marked with contrasting colored lines so that boundaries are easily identi able. All lines on the eld shall be between 2 - 4 inches in width.

Note: There are additional approved eld dimensions speci c to age groups, please refer to Appendix VI.

1.2.6 - CENTER SPOT
The center of the eld shall be marked by approximately a four-inch circle, square or, X.
1.3B - GOAL CREASES
The goal creases shall be circular and painted on the eld or marked with at disc cones, with a radius of 9’ feet.
1.3.1 - GOALS
A 6x6 foot goal with securely af xed netting that will not permit the ball to pass though may be used.
1.5.1 - THE BALL
Lacrosse balls that meet the current NOCSAE ND049 standard shall be used in all games.
1.6A, 1.7A, & 1.8A - THE LACROSSE STICK
See Appendix V - Ball and Crosse Speci cations
1.6B, 1.7B, & 1.8B - THE GOALIE LACROSSE STICK
See Appendix V - Ball and Crosse Specications
1.9A - FIELD PLAYER EQUIPMENT
All field players shall have (1) A lacrosse helmet that meets NOCSAE ND041 at the time of manufacture and has a permanent, replica of the NOCSAE lacrosse seal appearing legibly on the exterior of the helmet shell, (2) An Intra-oral mouth protector (mouth piece), (3) Protective gloves designed for boy’s lacrosse (4) Shoulder pads designed for boy’s lacrosse, (5) Athletic cleats or athletic shoes, (6) Arm pads designed for lacrosse, (7) A jersey and shorts of the same color(s) as their teammates, (8) Athletic protective cup.
Note: Rib pads are recommended but not required pieces of equipment.

1.9B - GOALIE EQUIPMENT
All goalies shall have (1) A lacrosse helmet that meets NOCSAE ND041 at the time of manufacture and has a permanent, replica
of the NOCSAE lacrosse seal appearing legibly on the exterior of the helmet shell, (2) A throat protector designed for lacrosse (3) An Intra-oral mouth protector (mouth piece), (4) Protective gloves designed for boy’s lacrosse (5) Goalie chest protector designed for lacrosse, (6) Athletic cleats or athletic shoes, (7) Athletic protective cup, (8) A jersey and shorts of the same color as their teammates.

Note: Recommended but not required pieces of equipment (1) Arm pads designed for lacrosse and (2) Shin, knee, and thigh pads that may be worn so long as they do not signi cantly increase the size of the limb protected (e.g., no ice hockey, field hockey, or box lacrosse goalie pads).

RULE 2: GAME PERSONNEL 2.1.1 - NUMBER OF PLAYERS
(A) 7v7 Format
7 Players - 1 Goalie, 2 Defense, 2 Middies, and 2 Attack
Max 3 Long Poles on the eld (52” - 72”)
A team shall begin the game with at least 7 players and must keep a legally equipped goalkeeper on the eld at all times, or it forfeits the game.
The first starting attack player shall be the In-Home.
(B) 10v10 Format
10 Players - 1 Goalie, 3 Defense, 3 Middies, and 3 Attack
Max 4 Long Poles on the eld (52” - 72”)
A team shall begin the game with at least 10 players and must keep a legally equipped goalkeeper on the eld at all times, or it forfeits the game.
The first starting attack player shall be the In-Home.
2.1.3 - COACHES
Coaches are not permitted on the eld of play at 12U. They shall stay con ned to their designated coach’s box on the sideline.
2.1.5 - OFFICIALS
US Lacrosse recommends at least 2 certified of cials on the field for every competition.
2.7 - TIMEKEEPER
The head coaches shall designate a timekeeper.
2.8 - SCORE KEEPER
Scorekeeping is a local level decision but US Lacrosse does not recommend keeping score at this level.
RULE 3: TIME FACTORS 3.1 - LENGTH OF THE GAME
A competition will consist of (4) 10-minute stop time quarters, with a 2 minute break between each quarter and a 5 minute half time.
3.4 - OVERTIME
In the event of a tie at the end of the regulation game, play shall be continued, after a two-minute intermission, with sudden-victory overtime. In sudden-victory overtime, the teams shall play periods of four minutes each until a goal is scored. The game ends upon the scoring of the rst goal. There will be a two-minute intermission between sudden-victory periods.
RULE 4 : PLAY OF THE GAME 4.1 - COIN TOSS
A coin-toss will be used to determine rst alternating possession or choice of goal to defend to start the game.
4.2 - PLAYER LINE-UP
Before the start of play the of cial shall bring all the players on both teams in lines facing each other at the center of the eld, with their left sides toward the goal they are defending, and explain any special ground rules, emphasize safety, fair play, and sportsmanship. After the lineup, all the players other than the starters will return to their team areas.
4.3 - FACING OFF
Play shall be started at the beginning of each period and after each goal by facing the ball at the Center Spot.
4.4 - POSITIONING OF PLAYERS AND STARTING PLAY FOR 7 X 7 PLAY
When a team has all of its players on the eld, it shall place one face-off player at the center of the eld. One wing player shall be located in bounds with at least one foot resting on a sideline. Two defenders shall be located behind their own goal line extended
and two offensive players shall be behind their opponents goal line extended. Goalkeepers are con ned to their crease during a face- off. Goalies, defensive, and offensive players are released from their con ned areas once possessive has been gained or the ball crosses either goal line extended.
When the whistle sounds to start play, the player in the wing areas shall be released. All other players are con ned to their areas until a player of either team has gained possession of the ball, the ball goes out of bounds, the ball crosses GLE, a whistle stops play for a time- serving foul or a whistle restarts play after a non-time-serving foul; when any of these events occur, the faceoff has ended.
During the faceoff in all penalty situations, there must be three players in the defensive area and two players in the offensive area. Exception: When a team has two players in the penalty area, a player may come out of his defensive area to take the faceoff but must remain onside.

4.6 - OUT OF BOUNDS AND BALL POSSESSION
Play shall be stopped immediately when the ball goes out of bounds. On a shot that goes out of bounds, possession is awarded to the team of the in-bounds player closest to location of the ball when it went out. When the ball goes out of bounds, for any other reason other than a shot, it is awarded to the team that did not touch the ball last.
4.7 - BALL CAUGHT IN CROSS OR EQUIPMENT
If at any point the ball becomes stuck in a players crosse or equipment, the play shall stop immediately and award the ball to the opposing team. Note: Neither situation above applies to a designated goalkeeper if he is within his goal-crease area at the time the ball becomes stuck. In this case, a defensive player shall be awarded the ball laterally outside the goal area.
4.8 - GOAL SCORED
A goal is scored when a loose ball passes completely over the goal line and into the goal.
4.8.1 - GOAL NOT SCORED
(a) When from a shot that was released after time had expired in a period.
(b) A player from the attacking team has committed a foul
(c) The goal scorer stick is found to be illegal.
4.10 - OFFSIDE
(1) A team is considered offside when during 7 v 7 - a team has more than four players in its offensive half of the eld (between the centerline and the end line) including players in the penalty box, or more than five players in its defensive half of the eld (between the centerline and the end line) including players in the penalty box.
(2) A team is considered offside when during 10 v 10 - a team has more than 6 players in its offensive half of the eld (between the centerline and the end line) including players in the penalty box, or more than 7 players in its defensive half of the eld (between the centerline and the end line) including players in the penalty box.
4.11 - ADVANCING THE BALL
(a) Over the Midline (20 seconds) - Upon gaining possession of the ball inside the defensive half of the eld, a team shall advance the ball beyond the center line within 20 seconds or there will be an immediate turnover.

(b) Into the Goal Area (10 seconds) - Upon the ball being possessed in a team’s offensive half of the eld, a team shall advance the ball into the goal area within 10 seconds or there will be an immediate turnover. Additionally, once the 10-second count has been satis ed and an offensive team carries, passes or propels the ball over the midline (except on a shot) it will result in an immediate turnover.
Once started, both the 20 and 10 counts will continue until:
The opposing team gains possession.
A clearing team player in possession of the ball steps on or over the line.
The of cial sound the whistle to stop play for any reason.
The ball physically touches anything in the Goal Area.
Play-on