Rules
The rules in most sports, including lacrosse, primarily serve two purposes – to help keep games fair and safe. Rules help govern the games and the equipment used in the games.
US Lacrosse works collaboratively with the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) and the NCAA to write the rules for lacrosse, and the organizations often work together on rules development and player safety efforts.
As the 2021 lacrosse season draws ever closer and optimistically, players of all ages return to play, it’s important to note that there are some equipment guidelines that players, parents, coaches and officials should keep in mind. Use of required and certified equipment ensures the highest levels of safety for all participants.
Lacrosse Balls
The use of protective equipment is an important element in many sports, including lacrosse, to ensure the safest possible environment for players and to reduce the risk of injury.
Some protective lacrosse equipment – helmets and chest protection for men’s and women’s goalies, helmets and chest protection for men’s field players, and eyewear and optional headgear for women - have a required performance standard that must be met in order to be certified for play. Other equipment, such as mouthguards and gloves, have no standard.
US Lacrosse has produced and released two boys' Rules Interpretation videos for the 2021 season. One video highlights the significant rules changes and points of emphasis for the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), and the second video highlights the significant changes to the US Lacrosse youth rules.
2021 NFHS Boys' Rules Interpretation Video
SPARKS, Md. — US Lacrosse has announced updates to its box rules and points of emphasis for 2019. The points of emphasis for 2019 relate to abuse of officials, illegal body checking and boarding, helmets and penalties.
US Lacrosse has produced and released two girls' Rules Interpretation videos for the 2021 season. One video highlights the significant rules changes and points of emphasis for the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), and the second video highlights the significant changes to the US Lacrosse youth rules.