Women's Lacrosse Rules

I. The Playing Area

IA. Field

The field has no measured boundaries, but the following guidelines are generally observed. If these requirements cannot be met, play can continue, provided that personnel from both teams agree.

Lines on the fields should be 2"-4" wide, except the goal line (see below), which is 2" wide. The playing field must be flat and free of glass, stones, and protruding objects. The field's condition is the responsibility of the host institution.

Before the match, captains and umpires decide on boundaries. No marks may be added to, or removed from, the field.

Field dimensions

IB. Goal

The goals are made of two wood or metal posts or pipes, measuring (on the inside) 6' high and 6' apart. They are joined at the top by a crossbar whose inside is 6' off the ground. The goal posts/pipes must not extend beyond the crossbar nor may the crossbar extend beyond the goal posts/pipes. The posts and crossbar must be solid white, orange, or silver and measure 2" in diameter. The goal line is drawn between the two posts, continuous with them and of the same width.

The goal's netting, or mesh, must have holes no larger than 1.5" and be securely attached to the posts and crossbar. The net is also firmly pegged down to a point on the ground 6' behind the goal line. The net should be strung so as to prevent rebounding of the ball

Goals on grass fields should be sunk into the ground and have no back stays. On artificial turf, flat supports or angled ground pipes (that do not cause the ball to rebound) are best. Additional goal supports must be entirely padded with material that limits ball rebound.

The goal circle has a radius of 8.5', measured from the center of the goal line to the outer edge of the goal circle line (which is 2"-4" wide).

Detailed Manufacturer's Specifications for Goals

Goal Circle Rules
Only one player, either the goalkeeper or the person deputizing for her, is allowed in the goal circle at any one time. No other player is allowed to enter or have any part of her body or crosse on or over the goal circle line at any time.

While within the goal circle, the goalkeeper:

must clear the ball within ten seconds after it has entered the goal circle;
may stop the ball with either hand and/or her body as well as her crosse; if she catches the ball with her hand she must put it in her crosse and proceed with the game;
must remove a ball lodged in her clothing, protective equipment, or goalkeeper's crosse, place it in her crosse, and proceed with the game;
may reach out her crosse and bring the ball back into the goal circle provided no part of her body is grounded outside the goal circle.

The deputy:

may only enter or remain in the goal circle when her team has possession of the ball and must immediately leave the goal circle when her team loses possession of the ball;
may only enter or remain in the goal circle when her team has possession of the ball and must immediately leave the goal circle when her team loses possession of the ball;
may go into the goal circle to prevent a rolling ball from crossing the goal line;
while within the goal circle must clear the ball within ten seconds after it has entered the goal circle;
while within the goal circle must remove the ball lodged in her clothing or crosse, place it in her crosse, and proceed with the game.

When the goalkeeper or anyone deputizing for her is outside the goal circle:

She loses all her goalkeeping privileges.
She may only re-enter the goal circle without the ball.
She may propel the ball into the goal circle and then follow it in.
If the ball is inside the circle, she must return to the goal circle to play the ball.

See Penalties for Goal Circle Violations.

II. Participants

IIA. Team and Team Captains

A full team is comprised of twelve players, any number of whom can be on the field of play at the same time. One team member acts as captain, who assists the coach and acts as a team representative on the field.

IIB. Officials

The officials consist of a two or three umpires, a scorer, and a timer. The scorer is responsible for keeping and displaying an accurate score of the game, and is from the home team (though it's recommended that the visitors also have a scorer and score book at the table). The timer is responsible for keeping time in the game and stopping the clock. For a more detailed description of the duties of these officials, please consult the USWLA rulebook.

Inspections
At the beginning of the game, all equipment that is to be used in the game should be inspected by the umpire. Additionally, umpires can call time to inspect any and all equipment at any point during the game.

The umpire can also inspect the crosse of any player by request of an opposing player on the field. For any additional requests for inspection of a crosse that does meet specifications, a penalty for a minor foul is awarded.

If the equipment checks out, the game will start again and the ball will be returned to the player who was in possession of it when time was called. If no one was in possession, the ball will be given to the player who was closest to it when time was called.

If the equipment does not meet specifications, it will be removed and placed at the scorer's table for the remainder of the half. The game will then be restarted with a free position to the opponent who was nearest the ball when time was called.

At half-time or before an overtime period, the equipment can be reinspected to see whether the player can use it in the second half or in overtime. The player can continue to play with new equipment that meets specifications.

If a goal was scored with a crosse that did not meet specifications, the goal won't count. Or, if the player whose crosse was inspected readjusts her crosse after the inspection, the goal will not count and the crosse will be removed from the game. In both cases, a free position will be given to the opposing goalie. Once the game is restarted with the draw, the goal will stand.

If, after a goal is scored but before the game is restarted with the draw, any player besides the shooter is found to have a crosse that doesn't meet specifications, a free position will be taken at the center by the opposing team.

How does the umpire start or stop play?
The umpire uses the whistle to stop and start play. To start play, the umpire also raises an arm above his or her head and moving it down to the side as the whistle is blown.

In the case of a throw, the arm signal to restart the clock is actually the motion of throwing the ball as the umpire blows the whistle.

III. Equipment

It's essential to use the right equipment in lacrosse. Whether you're attack, midfield, defense, or goalie, your equipment can make or break the game. The right stick can make scoring, checking, and cradling easier. The right gloves improve your grip and help you avoid costly mistakes. For the goalie, the right pads mean safety in the crease.

Make sure your equipment adheres to the following specifications. Remember, all equipment from STX follows U.S.W.L.A guidelines.

How Umpires Inspect Equipment

IIIA. The Crosse

The crosse described below is for players other than the goalkeeper. To find out about goalie crosses, go to Just for Goalies.

Field crosses may be synthetic or wooden. The head of the stick is basically triangular and is affixed to the handle in such a way that it is on the same plane as the handle (i.e., not at an angle). For the safety of all the players, the crosse must be free from all sharp or protruding parts or edges.

The pocket of the crosse must be strung with 4 or 5 leather or synthetic thongs, with 8 to 12 stitches cross-lacing and no more than 2 "shooting/throw" strings. MESH POCKETS ARE NOT ALLOWED.

The pocket's tightness should be such that a ball dropped into a horizontally held crosse should remain even with or above the top of the wall. Also, the ball must be able to move freely within the pocket, and not become wedged between the wood and the bridge, or, on a molded stick, within the stop.

Overall length: 35.5"-43.25" (Younger players may use smaller sticks.)

Overall head width: 7"-9"

Head width, 1" above center of stop (molded crosse) or 1" above the bridge (wooden crosse): 2.625"-3" inside or 3"-4" outside

Head length, from center of stop/bridge to top of head: 10"-12"

Head depth (combined measurement of pocket holding ball and the sidewall): no more than 2.5"

Wall thickness, at highest point: 1.25"-4.8" wood/molded or 1.25"-2.75" guard soft/woven

Weight: No more than 20 ounces

What happens if my equipment doesn't meet these specifications on inspection?
Detailed Manufacturer's Specifications for Field Crosses
Detailed Manufacturer's Specifications for Goalie Crosses

IIIB. The Ball

Material: Rubber

Color: Solid yellow

Circumference: 7.25"-8"

Weight: 5-5.25 oz.

Bounce, dropped from 72" onto
concrete at room temperature: 43"-51"

What happens if my equipment doesn't meet these specifications on inspection?
Detailed Manufacturer's Specifications for Lacrosse Balls

IIIC. Uniforms and Equipment for Field Players

Specifications:

Shoes: Composition or rubber-soled boots or shoes.

Cleats: No spikes; plastic, leather, or rubber cleat-studs

Uniforms: All teammates must be dressed the same, except the goalie Shoes and socks need not be identical

Numbers*: On front of shirt, no less than 3" tall; on back, no less than 6" tall
Each player must have a unique number
Color of number must clearly contrast with shirt color
On patterned shirt, number must be superimposed on a solid block or outlined with a contrasting color

Colors: Coaches will agree on contrasting colors prior to game If both teams wear similar colors, home team will wear pinnies or vests

Undergarments**: Solid color under kilt or shorts
Under the top, same color as top
All players wearing visible undergarments must wear the same color

Mouthpieces: All players must wear a professionally made mouthpiece
Field players may have no protruding tabs

*Any player not listed on the roster and/or in the score book by name and correct uniform number is an illegal substitute.

**This does not apply to medical sleeves.

Other Equipment Allowed:
Close-fitting gloves
Nose guards
Eye guards
Soft headgear
Medically needed protection-must be close-fitting, lightweight, and padded where necessary
Medic-Alert necklace or bracelet-must be taped securely to player
Barrettes-may not endanger other players

Equipment Not Allowed:
Jewelry, except as mentioned above
Barrettes that could cause harm to other players
Anything that could endanger anyone on the field (decided by officials)
Equipment that does not comply with rules or manufacturer's specifications

Note: The umpire may, at any time, rule any decoration as dangerous and remove it from the field of play. The umpire can penalize this as a minor foul. Violating these rules can result in removal of the offending player until correction is made, unless the correction can be made without delay. Play will be restarted with a free position for the opponent.

If a mouth guard or jewelry violation is discovered immediately after a goal, the goal still counts and free position is taken at center circle. If the player is not ready to reenter when play is restarted, she may not reenter until the umpire says she may at a stoppage of play. She will then be placed one step onto the field from the boundary at the center line.

IIID. Uniforms and Equipment for Goalies

The goalkeeper has one of the most important jobs on the field. She's the last line of defense, and as such, her responsibilities are enormous. She's the one who makes the saves, who puts herself in the line of fire for her team. She can make or break a game.

In recognition of the fact that goalies have a tough job, their equipment is much different than that of field players. They wear more protection and use a different stick. The exact specifications for goalkeeper equipment are listed below.

The Goalie Crosse
Uniforms and Equipment
Detailed Manufacturer's Specifications for Uniforms

The Goalkeeper Crosse

Goalie crosses may be wooden or synthetic. The head of the stick is basically triangular and is affixed to the handle in such a way that it is on the same plane as the handle (i.e., not at an angle). For the safety of all the players, the crosse must be free from all sharp or protruding parts or edges.

The pocket of the crosse must be strung with 6 or 7 leather or synthetic thongs, and may be cross-laced or mesh. The ball must be able to move freely within the pocket.

Dimensions of the Goalkeeper Crosse

Overall length: 35.5"-48"

Head width, inside: no more than 12"

Head width, outside: no more than 13"

Head length: 16"

Head depth: unlimited

Weight: No more than 26 ounces

Uniforms and other Equipment for Goalies
For more general information on what is and is not allowed on the field, see Uniforms and Other Equipment for Field Players. For information on goalie-specific equipment, see below.

Optional, depending on institution:

Padding: Arms, legs, and shoulders
Must be the same thickness as legal goalie gloves
May not significantly increase size of these body parts

Gloves: 1" thick padding
No webbing
May not significantly increase hand size as presented to ball

Required: Helmet with face mask
Mouth piece (Protruding tab okay)
Throat protector
Chest protector
Shirt worn over chest protector

What happens if my equipment doesn't meet these specifications on inspection?

Back to Women's Rules

IV. Game Play

IVA. How to Start the Game

Each game half and overtime period is started by a draw at the center line between opposing players. In the draw, the players stand with one foot toeing the center line, holding their crosses in the air, above hip level, lower side to lower side, angle to collar, parallel to and above the center line and back to back, so that the crosses are between the ball and their own team's goal. On the word "ready" the players remain motionless until the whistle is blown, at which time they draw their crosses up and away from one another.

After each goal, the game is started in the same way, except in the case of an equipment violation. All player's feet must be outside the center circle until the whistle is blown.

At the draw, the ball must attain a height higher tan the heads of the players taking the draw. An illegal draw will result in a free position for the opponent.

If both players draw illegally or the fault cannot be determined, a throw is awarded.

For the free position, the player who drew illegally is placed on either side, 4.4 yards away, at an angle of 45 degrees to the center line of her team's goal. For the throw the players remain at the center.

IVB. Scoring

The team who makes the most goals is the winner of the game. A goal occurs when the whole ball passes completely over the goal line, between the posts, and under the crossbar. (For definition of these terms, click here.)

A goal does not occur when:

it is made by a nonplayer
the ball comes off the person of an attacking player
the ball enters the goal after the whistle has blown or the horn sounded
the shooting player followed through over the goal circle with her body or crosse
an attacking player other than the shooter has entered the goal circle
the goalkeeper, while in the goal circle, is interfered with by an attacking player
the umpire has ruled that the shot was dangerous
the ball enters the goal while the attacking team has an illegal player on the field
the ball was shot from an illegal crosse

Note: The goalie's crosse must meet field crosse specifications to score a goal.

IVC. Ties and Playoffs

If, when the clock stops, the score is tied, the following method is suggested:

At the end of the game, each team has a five-minute rest and then a coin toss for choice of ends.
Two three-minute periods of stop-clock overtime will be played. After each three-minute period, the clock will be stopped to allow the teams to change ends with no delay for coaching. The game will be restarted by a center draw. The team that is ahead after six minutes is the winner.
If the teams are tied after six minutes, the teams will have a three minute rest and then switch ends.
The winner will be decided on a "sudden victory," six-minute or less stop-clock overtime, with teams changing ends after three minutes. The game will be restarted with a center draw, and the team that scores the first goal, wins.
If no goal is scored during this time, play will continue with six minute "sudden victory" stop-clock overtime periods, with three minutes in between, until a goal is scored.
For a one-day tournament, it's recommended that teams skip the first six minute overtime and go immediately to "sudden victory."

To eliminate playoff games during the season, leagues should devise a scoring system for standings within the league-e.g., 2 points for a win, 1 point for a tie, and no points for a loss.

IVD. Timing and Stopping

Playing time is agreed upon before the game by the captains. Usually the maximum time allowed is 50 minutes, or 60 minutes for college play. Halftime duration is also agreed upon by the captains or coaches, but may last no more than 10 minutes. Time out can be taken for illness, accident or injury.

Play should be as continuous as possible. However, the clock is stopped for the following:

The umpire's whistle and arm signal after each goal during the entire game, unless:
� Coaches have agreed prior to game to let the clock run after goals;
� A team is leading by more than 10 goals. Stop clock begins again after the lead is narrowed to less than 10 goals.
The umpire's whistle to stop play in the last two minutes of each half.
Unusual circumstances-for example, broken crosse, lost ball, animal on field, spectator interference, delay of game, to check a crosse, or for warnings or suspensions. In these instances, time out is at the discretion of the umpire.
One time out per team, per half, by request of a coach or player after a goal is scored. Time outs may not be taken during overtime play. These time outs are 2 minutes long, starting from when the umpire calls the time out. Warning horns will sound at 1minute 45 seconds and again at 2 minutes; it is the responsibility of coaches to gather their teams and get them back on the field. A delay in the game will be penalized by free position at the center.
Dangerous weather or field conditions, at the discretion of the umpire. The game in this case may be suspended (to be played on another day) or interrupted (to be played later on the same day), and is considered legal and complete if 80% of the playing time has elapsed. A suspended game will begin again from the beginning, and an interrupted game will begin at the point it was interrupted.

IVE. Stand, Throw, and Out-of-Bounds

A stand occurs when the umpire blows the whistle and no player (except the goalie and her deputy within the circle) may move unless directed by the umpire until the game has been restarted. Any player that moves must return to her original position.

When the ball goes out-of-bounds, the umpire blows the whistle and the players must stand. The player nearest to the place where the ball went out-of-bounds stands 4.4 yards inside the boundary and takes the ball in her crosse. If two opposing players are equally near the ball, a throw is taken. Other players must maintain their same relationship relative to the other players at the time the whistle was blown, except the player with the ball, who must be given one meter of clear space by her opponents. Upon the umpire's signal and whistle, the game may proceed. (Note: Play may not be resumed within 8.8 yards of the goal circle.)

The Throw
The two players must stand with feet and crosses at least l meter (1.1 yards) apart. Each is nearer to the goal she is defending.

The umpire stands 4-8 meters (4.4- 8.8 yards) from the players, and, on the whistle, throws the ball with a short high throw so that the players take it as they move in towards the game.

The throw is taken where the incident occurs (except that no throw may be taken within 8 meters (8.8 yards) of the goal circle or 4 meters (4.4 yards) of the agreed boundaries).

No player may be within 4 meters (4.4 yards) of the players taking the throw. If the throw is inaccurate or is not touched by either player, the throw is taken again.

A throw is taken when:

The ball goes into the goal off of a non-player (see Scoring). In this case, the throw is taken to the side of the goal by the two opposing field players nearest to the goal.
The ball goes out-of-bounds and two opposing players are equally near the ball. (See above.)
There is an incident unrelated to the ball and players are equidistant from the ball (See Accident, interference, or other incident).
A ball lodges in the clothing of a field player or umpire (see Ball lodged in clothing or crosse).
Two players commit offsetting fouls (major and/or minor) (see Major and minor fouls), or, after the attacking team fouls during a slow whistle situation, the game is restarted. After any incident related to the ball, unless caused by a foul, when neither team has possession and two opposing players are equally near the ball (see Accident, interference, or other incident).
Both players draw illegally or it cannot be determined why the draw was illegal.
The game is stopped for any reason not specified in the rules.

IVF. Substitutions

Substitution is unlimited and can be made whenever the ball is not in play. Re-entry is also permitted. If the game is restarted without a player who was removed due to an equipment violation, and no substitute has taken her place, she may return only with the umpire's recognition at a stoppage of play. She will be placed one step into the field from the boundary at the center line.

Substitution procedures are as follows:

The sub reports to the scorer's table and tells the scorer whom she is replacing (name and number).
The sub remains at the scorer's table until she's told, at the next stop in play, to go in.
If the substitution is being made at any time besides at half time, after a goal, or during a team time out, the sub may not reenter until the timer sounds a horn at the first stop in play. Only players who have checked in with the scorer may reenter.
During an injury time out, a substitute may enter provided no time is wasted.
Time out is not taken specifically for substitution, and the time taken for substitution may not exceed 10 seconds.
Substitution may be allowed if a player is suspended due to misconduct. This substitution may take no longer than 1 minute.
The umpire will call all substitutes onto the field simultaneously.
All substitutes must assume the same location as the player they are replacing, and no advantage may be gained by substitution.
There may be no exchange of positions on the field during a substitution unless it occurs after a goal.

If an illegal substitution is made, the umpire will call a time out and remove the illegal player. A free position will go to the opposing team at the spot where play was set to begin again. For breach of this rule simultaneously (Note to client: What does this mean?) the umpire will award a throw at the spot where play was to resume.

If a team has an illegal player on the field before a goal is scored, the player will be removed and a free position will go to the opposing team at the spot where play was set to resume before the discovery of the illegal player. If that spot can't be determined, play will begin at the spot where the ball was upon discovery of the error.

If an illegal player is discovered on the attacking team after a goal is made and before play is restarted, the goal won't count, the player will be removed, and a free position will go to the opposing goalie.

IVG. Special Situations

Ball Lodged in Clothing or Crosse

When the ball lodges:

In the clothing of a field player--A throw is taken with the nearest opponent;
In the crosse of a field player--The crosse no longer meets specifications and must be removed from the game immediately. The umpire will take time-out remove the crosse. (See Umpires' Inspection of Equipment.)
In the goal netting or in the protective equipment, the clothing, or the crosse of the goalkeeper while she is within the goal circle--She removes the ball, places it in her crosse, and proceeds with the game.
In the clothing of an umpire--A throw is taken by the two nearest opponents.

Accident, Interference, or Other Incident

If the game has to be stopped due to an accident, injury or illness, interference, or an incident either related or unrelated to the ball at the time the whistle is blown, the game is restarted in one of the two ways:

If a foul has occurred, a free position is awarded on a spot determined by the umpire.
If no foul is involved in the stoppage of play, the ball is given to the player possessing or nearest to the ball at the time play was stopped. If two players are equidistant from the ball, a throw is taken. Play must not be restarted within 8-meters (18.8 yards) of the goal circle or within 4 meters (4.4 yards) of the agreed boundaries.

Time-out is called at the discretion of the umpire. During time-out, no one from the sidelines may come onto the field without the permission of the umpire and no sideline personnel may come onto the field to coach, nor may any player leave her area of the field to be coached.

If medical personnel or coaches come onto the field to attend an injured player, that player must leave the field until the next stoppage of play. A substitute may take her place. If the player is not replaced she may return--with the umpire's permission--at a stoppage of play. She will be placed one step onto the field from the boundary at the center line. If the injured player is the goalkeeper and there is no other "dressed" goalkeeper on her team, the goalkeeper may remain in the game.

Back to Women's rules

V. Major Fouls

Major fouls include:
Rough and reckless checking
Slashing fouls
Crosse in opponent's face
Hooking opponent's crosse
Blocking
Obstructing the free space to the goal
Remaining in 8-meter arc
Setting pick outside of opponent's view
Detaining
Tripping
Forcing crosse through opponent's
Charging
Dangerous follow-through
Dangerous shooting
Shooting from indirect free position
Checking on younger teams
Repeated violation of minor fouls

VA. Rough and reckless checking

A player may not roughly or recklessly check or tackle another player's crosse or reach across an opponent to check her crosse when she is level with or behind her.

The direction of all checks must be away from a seven inch sphere around the head. A crosse may be checked toward the body only if the check or tackle is controlled and the crosse does not go into this sphere. However, a player may reach into the sphere to make a safe check or tackle.

A players' crosse may not may hit or cause her opponent's crosse to hit the opponent's body.

VB. Slashing fouls

Players may not slash. If a check makes contact with player's head or slashing occurs, the whistle is blown immediately and a yellow or red card must be given. If slashing occurs in the critical scoring area, a slow whistle is in effect; however, when the scoring play is over, a yellow or red card must be given.

VC. Crosse in opponent's face

A player may not hold her crosse within the sphere around the face or throat of an opponent. Neither may a player hold, whether cradling or not, the head of her crosse in front of her face or her teammate's face, within the sphere, or close to her own or her teammate's body, thereby making a legal and safe check impossible.

VD. Hooking opponent's crosse

A player may not use the webbed area of her crosse to hook the bottom end of an opponent's crosse.

VE. Blocking

A player may not block her opponent; that is, she may not move into the path of an opponent without giving that player a chance to stop or change direction.

Body-to-body contact is either charging or blocking. Crosse-to-crosse contact is either a legal or illegal check. Body-to-crosse contact is either detaining, blocking, or no call.

VF. Obstructing the free space to the goal

A player may not, with any part of her body, guard the goal outside the goal circle in such a way that the free space to the goal (between the ball and the goal circle) is obstructed, denying the attack the opportunity to shoot safely and encouraging shooting at a player.

This positioning applies only if initiated by a defender who is not intentionally marking, within a stick's length, the player in possession. It does not apply if she is drawn into the free space to the goal by an attacking player. This call should be made only if the player with the ball is looking to shoot. If she is being double- or triple- teamed and she has no opportunity to shoot the goal, the call should not be made.

VG. Remaining in 8-meter arc

While defending within the 8-meter arc, a player may not remain in that area for more than 3 seconds, unless she is marking an opponent within a stick's length.

The defense is not exempt from the 3-second and/or the obstruction of the free space to goal rule by virtue of double-teaming/multiple-teaming a non-ball attack player in the arc. The 3-second count will continue against the original nonmarking defense player within the arc until there is again only one defender on the non-ball attacker.

A defensive player, who is marking an unmarked opponent standing directly behind the goal circle is exempt from the 3-second rule, but is must obey the obstruction of the free space to goal rule.(See diagram).

A defense player who is marking an unmarked opponent standing directly behind the goal circle cannot be penalized for the 3-second rule when drawn into a double or multiple team by the attacking non-ball players.

The 3-second rule is in effect when the team in possession of the ball crosses the ball over the center line into their attacking half of the field.

VH. Setting pick outside of opponent's view

If a player sets a moving or stationary pick outside of an opponent's line of sight which doesn't allow enough time or space to stop or change direction and, as a result, contact occurs, it is considered a major foul.

VI. Detaining

A player may not detain an opponent at anytime by holding, tagging, or pushing against the opponent's body, clothing, or crosse with her arm, leg, body, or crosse. A player may not hold her crosse in a way that restrains or holds a player back.

VJ. Tripping

A player may not trip an opponent, deliberately or otherwise.

VK. Forcing crosse through opponent's

A player in possession may not try to force her crosse through an opposing crosse in such a way as to cause her own crosse to contact her body.

VL. Charging

No player may charge, barge, shoulder, or back into an opponent, or push an opponent with the hand or body.

VM. Dangerous follow-through

At no time may a player propel the ball or follow through with her crosse in a way that is dangerous or uncontrolled. When violation of this rule occurs, the whistle is blown immediately and a yellow or red card must be given.

VN. Dangerous shooting

A player may not shoot dangerously or without control. A dangerous shot is judged by its distance, force, and placement.

A shot should not be directed at the body of a field player or goalkeeper, and especially should not be directed towards the head or neck. This wouldn't apply if the player had moved into the path of the ball. A shot may be uncontrolled even if it misses the goal.

Any shot taken without regard to the positioning of other players is dangerous. Penalty for a dangerous shot is a free position for the goalie.

VO. Shooting from indirect free position

A player may not shoot from an indirect free position.

VP. Checking on younger teams

Players on 7th grade and lower teams may not check the crosse of an opponent. Crosse-to-crosse contact is not necessarily a violation of this rule.

VQ. Repeated violation of minor fouls

Repeated violation of minor fouls should be penalized as major fouls. Any minor foul done in a dangerous manner may be penalized as a Major Foul. During a slow whistle situation, if there are additional major or minor fouls by the defense, the attack will be awarded the ball at the 8-meter hash mark nearest to the most recent foul at the end of the unsuccessful scoring play.

VI. Minor Fouls

The penalties for minor fouls are outlined in the penalty section. Minor fouls are as follows:

Guarding a ground ball with the foot or crosse.
Checking or tackling an opponent's crosse when trying to get possession of the ball. This applies only if it were possible for the opponent to have received the ball.
Guarding the crosse with an arm. If one hand is removed from the crosse, the free hand may not be used to ward off an opponent, deliberately or otherwise, with or without contact. Nor may elbows be used to protect the crosse.
Touching the ball with the hand, unless the player doing so is a goalie in the goal circle or when the ball is lodged in clothing or crosse.
Using the hand or body to keep the ball in the crosse, e.g., squeezing the head of the crosse.
A player allowing any part of her body to impede, accelerate, or change the direction of the ball to her team's distinct advantage. However, if the goalkeeper blatantly attempts to stop a shot on goal by playing the ball off her body while outside the goal circle, it will be considered a Major Foul.
Throwing the crosse, in any circumstance.
A player taking part in the game when she is not holding her crosse.
Drawing illegally--either by drawing too soon, when no attempt is made to draw up and away, or the player taking the draw moves after the umpire says "ready" and before the umpire's whistle.
Stepping into the center circle before the whistle on the center draw before the whistle.
Playing with a crosse that does not meet specifications.
Adjusting the strings/thongs of her crosse after an official inspection of her crosse has been requested during the game. The crosse must then be removed.
Unreadiness to start play after a 2 minute team time out (see Duration of play) or following half time.
A player who takes part in the game when she is wearing jewelry or when her uniform does not meet specifications (see Uniforms and equipment ).
Illegal substitution.
Requesting, for a second time, the inspection of any crosse that meets specifications. (See Umpire's inspection of equipment).
Moving before the whistle starts play, i.e. false start.
Intentionally delaying the game. This includes a failure to stand when the whistle is blown to stop play (creeping), the failure to move 4 meters away on a free position, and/or any type of behavior which in the umpires' opinion amounts to delay.
The failure to properly wear a mouth piece.
Deliberately causing the ball to go out of bounds.
Scoring a goal with a crosse that does not meet field crosse specifications.

VII. Goal Circle Fouls

A field player may not enter or have any part of her body in the goal circle at any time, unless she is deputizing for the goalkeeper or enter or remain in the goal circle illegally as a deputy

Neither the goalkeeper nor her deputy may allow the ball to remain in the goal circle for longer than 10 seconds. Nor may they, when inside the goal circle, reach the goal circle to play the ball in the ground with a hand.

When any part of her is grounded outside the goal circle, the goalie may not draw the ball into her goal. The goalie also cannot step back into the goal circle when in possession of the ball or, when outside the goal circle, throw any part of her equipment to her deputy.

See Goal circle rules and Penalties for goal circle violations.

VIII. Misconduct and Suspensions

A player must not:

conduct herself in a rough, dangerous, and/or unsportsmanlike manner;
persistently cause infringement of the rules;
deliberately endanger the safety of an opposing player; or
exhibit any type of behavior which in the umpire's opinion amounts to misconduct.

Additionally:

A non-participating team member must remain in her team area throughout the game.
A coach must not stand near or walk in from the opposing bench, and must remain behind the level of the scorer's table extended.
The umpire has the power to, without warning, suspend the further participation of and/or send from the field any player, coach, or team follower guilty of flagrant or repeated violation of the rules, dissent, misconduct, or abusive language.
If a team leaves the field and refuses to play, score of the game shall stand, providing the team remaining on the field was ahead when they left. Otherwise, the score of the game will be 1-0 in favor of the team remaining on the field.
If a suspended player, coach or person officially connected with the team refuses to leave the area, the official may declare a forfeit. The score of a forfeited game will be 1-0 in favor of the non-offending team.

See Penalties for misconduct and suspensions.

IX. Penalties

The penalty for fouls is either a free position or the issuance of cards. In the event two players commit offsetting fouls, a throw is taken.

The penalty for repeated major fouls and any unsportsmanlike acts of a violent nature by a player occurring anywhere on the field could be administered at the 8-meter arc of the offending team. Time out is taken. The free position is taken by the closest player on the field to the center hash mark. No players are moved except one taking the free position and as necessary to clear 8-meter arc. Play is resumed with the whistle.

IXA. Free Position

Placement of Players
All players except the goalkeeper (who, while within the goal circle, may adjust her position) must "stand" when the whistle blows. The umpire indicates where the player taking the free position is to stand

No player or her crosse is allowed within 4 meters (4.4 yards) of the player taking the free position; if anyone is within this distance she must move to a position indicated by the umpire.

For major fouls anywhere on the field, the offending player will stand 4 meters (4.4 yards) behind the player taking the free position (unless the offending player is a goalkeeper who committed a goal circle foul; see Placement of players in special situations: goal circle fouls). This also applies to the goalkeeper or her deputy whether she is within or outside the goal circle. A verbal caution or warning may be given. (See Issuance of Cards.)

For minor fouls, the offending player will stand 4 meters (4.4 yards) away in the direction from which she approached before committing the foul. This applies to the goalkeeper if she is wholly outside the goal circle.

No free position may be taken closer to the goal circle than 8-meters (8.8 yards) except by the goalkeeper, who may be awarded a free position inside the goal circle. (See Placement of players in special situations: goal circle fouls.)

Resumption of Play
The player awarded the free position takes the ball in her crosse. On the arm signal and whistle from the umpire, the game is restarted and the player may run, pass or shoot.

The exception to this is the player taking an indirect free position, who may not shoot until the ball has been played by some other player. (See Placement of Players in Special Situations: Minor Field Fouls in the Critical Scoring Area.)

Placement of Players in Special Situations
In the critical scoring area, outside the 8-meter arc: For a major foul by a defense player, the free position will be taken on the spot of the most recent foul. All players' bodies and crosses must be cleared sideways from the penalty lane, relative to their position at the time of the whistle. The goalkeeper in the penalty lane may clear back into the goal circle if she did not foul.

In the 8-meter arc: For a major foul by a defense player which occurs in the 8-meter arc, all players' bodies and crosses must be cleared from the 8-meter arc and penalty lane, if necessary. The goalkeeper may clear back into the goal circle if she did not foul. All players must take the shortest route out.*

The player who fouled will move to a hash mark near the spot of the foul, on the 8-meter arc. The player who fouled moves to the meter fan directly behind the player taking the free position.

For a major foul by a defense player which occurs outside the 8-meter arc, and the scoring play ends inside the 8-meter arc without an additional foul occurring, the free position will be taken on the spot of the foul either by the player who was fouled or the attack player nearest the spot of the foul. All players' bodies and crosses must be cleared sideways from the penalty lane relative to their position at the time of the whistle.

For a major foul by an attack player (except a dangerous shot; see Major Fouls: Shooting Dangerously) the free position must be taken at least 8 meters (8.8 yards) from the goal circle. If the goalkeeper was fouled within the goal circle, the free position is taken within the goal circle and the offending player must go 4 meters (4.4 yards) behind the goal circle.

* In taking the shortest route out of the arc, the arc is cleared relative to one position inside the arc. The intent of clearing the arc is not to further penalize the defense. In other words, if a defense player is ball-side of an offensive player when the whistle is blown, the defense is entitled to a ball-side position on the arc, not necessarily at hash mark. If a defensive player is not ball-side when the game is stopped, she is not entitled to that position on the arc.

Minor fouls
Outside the 12-meter fan
The placement for all minor fouls shall be the same as for anywhere on the field and the penalty lane will not be cleared.

Inside the 12-meter fan
For a minor foul by a defense player occurring in the 12-meter fan when the slow whistle rule is not in effect, the player fouled will move to the nearest spot on the 12-meter fan. All other players shall remain in their same positions, with the exception of the fouling defense player. She must move 4 meters from the player taking the free position, relative to their position at the time of the foul. This is an indirect free position and no shot may be made by the player taking this free position until the ball has been played by some other player.

For a minor foul by an attack player, the player fouled will take the free position on the spot or within the provisions of rules outlined in Placement of players, above. No free position may be taken closer to the goal circle than 8 meters (8.8 yards), unless the goalkeeper has been fouled within the goal circle.

Umpires are encouraged to hold their whistle in the event that a Minor Foul is committed by a defense player at a time when the attack player may have the opportunity to shoot.

Goal Circle Fouls
The penalty for an illegal deputy is the same as the penalty for a major foul. The free position will be awarded to the attack at the 8-meter center hash mark, the deputy will be put 4 meters behind, and the goalkeeper may NOT clear back into the goal circle. (See Goal Circle Fouls.)

The penalty for all other goal circle fouls by the defense shall be an indirect free position taken 12 meters (13.1 yards) out to either side, level with the goal line. The offending player, except the goalkeeper, shall be placed 4 meters from the player taking the free position. The goalkeeper remains on the spot of the foul, or, if she was within or partially within the goal circle, she remains inside the circle.

The penalty for goal circle fouls by the attack shall be a free position taken by the goalkeeper or her deputy within the goal circle.

Special circumstances surrounding free position placement
If any foul prevented an almost certain goal, the umpire can order the goalkeeper out from between such a free position and the goal.

The free position for the defense may not be taken within 8 meters (8.8 yards) of the goal circle except in the case of the goalkeeper, who may be in the goal circle if she was fouled within the goal circle. The penalty for a dangerous shot shall be a free position taken by the goalkeeper within the goal circle. The player who fouled is placed 4 meters behind the goal circle.

Implementation of the Slow Whistle
A slow whistle is a held whistle with a signal flag thrown. A slow whistle is in response to a major foul by the defense in the critical scoring area when an attack player is on a scoring play. If the scoring play is unsuccessful, the foul is then penalized.

A slow whistle is in effect in the following instances:

when an attack player in the critical scoring area is on a scoring play and is fouled by the defense committing a Major Foul but retains possession of the ball; or
when an attack player in the critical scoring area is on a scoring play and a Major Foul is committed against an attack teammate without the ball.

Exceptions:

The umpire immediately blows the whistle when there is an obstruction of the free space to goal.
The umpire may, at any time following the flag, blow the whistle to halt potentially dangerous play.

A scoring play is a continuous effort by the attacking team to move the ball toward the goal and to complete a shot on goal. The scoring play is over when:

A shot is taken.
The attacking team loses possession of the ball. A bounce pass is not considered loss of possession.
The attacking team passes or carries the ball behind the level of the goal line a second time.
The attacking team stops the continuous attempt to score, or the player with the ball is forced by the defense to lose her forward momentum.
The attacking team fouls.

Enforcement of the slow whistle
If a scoring play ends without a goal being scored, the umpire will blow the whistle, and will award a free position to the fouled player or the attack player nearest the spot of the foul.

The offending or nearest defense player is penalized according to the penalties for major fouls. The next nearest defense player may move to 4 meters (4.4 yards) relative to the player with the ball. All players and their crosses must move out of the penalty lane until play is restarted.

During a slow whistle situation, if additional major or minor fouls are committed by the defense, the attack will be awarded the ball at the 8-meter hash mark nearest to the most recent foul at the end of the unsuccessful scoring play. The goalkeeper may return to her goal circle if:

She has moved outside and made interception or any legal play on a slow whistle, thus ending the scoring play.
She has moved outside the circle and gained possession of ball on an out-of-bounds slow whistle, thus ending the scoring play.
She has moved outside the goal circle on a slow whistle and is fouled by the attack ending the scoring play.
She is in the arc when the whistle blows, she has not fouled, and the arc is to be cleared.
She is in the penalty lane when the whistle blows, she has not fouled, and the penalty lane is to be cleared.

If, during a slow whistle situation, the attack player or one of her teammates commits a foul, it will be treated as an offsetting foul and a throw will be taken. The throw must be taken out to the side of the field and midway between the two occurrences, but no closer than 8 meters (8.8 yards) from the goal.

IXB. Issuance of Cards

Due to Delay of Game
The first violation of the minor foul of intentionally delaying the game should be followed by a green card given to the team captain. A change of possession takes place if applicable for the minor foul.

On the next delay of game the umpire will show a green and yellow card to the offending player and award the appropriate penalty. The offending player may remain in the game.

Any subsequent delay of game offense results in a green and red card being given to the offending player and the appropriate penalty being awarded. The player receiving the green/red card must leave the field for 3 minutes of elapsed playing time. A substitute may take her place. The official timer will be responsible for timing 3 minutes and indicating to the umpire when the player may return. If the player is removed with less than 3 minutes remaining in the half, suspension will carry over to the second half or overtime period.

Time-out must be called to administer a card.

Due to Misconduct and Suspension
The penalty for misconduct and suspension fouls is the same as for all major fouls. In addition to awarding a free position, the umpire may issue any number of verbal cautions and/or issue a yellow or red card. Time out must be called administer warnings and suspensions.

The umpire may warn the offending player by showing a yellow card. The player receiving the yellow card must leave the field until the next stoppage of play. A substitute may take her place. If the player receiving the yellow card is the goalkeeper and there is no other "dressed" goalkeeper for her team, the goalkeeper may remain in the game.

The umpire will, on further offenses, suspend the player from further participation in that game. The suspension will be noted by showing a red card. A suspended player may be replaced by a substitute but no player may reenter the game except as noted in the rules for substitution.

In the event a coach or team follower is warned or suspended, play is restarted within one minute, with a free position going to the opponent nearest the ball when play was stopped. The suspended team follower or coach must leave the area (including the spectator area) of the game.

In the event the umpire cannot identify which member of the coaching staff or other person associated with the team is responsible for the misconduct, the head coach will be assessed the penalty.

In the event that any team follower is to be warned or suspended, the head coach will be assessed the penalty.

X. College Restraining Line Rule

XA. Synopsis of the Rule

The restraining line rule is for use in College play ONLY.

The restraining line is at each end of the field, 27 meters (30 yards) from the goal line. The line should be solid and extend fully from one side of the field to the other.

Seven attack players are allowed over the line in their offensive end. Eight defense players are allowed over the line in their defensive end. Players may exchange places during play, but players must have both feet out before another teammate can enter.

Any part of the foot over the line is considered a violation. Players may reach over with their stick to play the ball as long as no part of the foot is over the line.

The restraining line remains in effect at all times during the entire game. Violation of the restraining line is considered a major foul. The umpire will indicate a violation by raising his or her arm straight up over the head.

XB. Rules Affected

The following rules would be affected by the addition of the restraining line rule:

The Field
A solid line, 27 meters (30 yd.) upfield from each goal line, will extend across the width of the field. (See diagram.)

Scoring
A goal is not scored when the ball enters the goal at a time when the attacking team has more than seven players over the restraining line.

Team Fouls
A team must not have more than seven players over the restraining line in their offensive end nor have more than eight players over the restraining line in their defensive end.

Penalties For Major/Minor/Team Fouls
If the attack fouls, the closest defender below the restraining line is awarded a free position 4m ahead of the line. Closest attack from below the restraining line is placed on the restraining line 4m behind the player taking the free position.

If it cannot be determined where the foul occurred or which attack player was last over the line, the closest defender below the restraining line will take the free position in the center of the field, 4m ahead of the line. The closest attack from below the restraining line is placed on the restraining line 4m behind the player taking the free position.

If the attack has possession of the ball the whistle should sound as soon as the violation occurs.

If the attack is offsides, but the defense gains possession of the ball before the foul can be called, the umpire may hold whistle and not penalize the offsides if the defense is able to maintain the advantage and clear over the restraining line to go on attack.

If the defense fouls and the attack with the ball is outside the critical scoring area when the violation is called, the attack will be awarded a free position at that spot, the closest defender will go 4m behind and the defender closest to the restraining line will move back onside.

If the defense fouls and the attack with the ball is inside the critical scoring area when the violation is called, the attack will be awarded a free position at the top center of the 12-meter fan. The closest defender will go 4m behind, the defender closest to the restraining line will move back onside, and the penalty lane will be cleared.

If the defense fouls and the play ends with another major foul by the defense inside the 8-meter arc, penalize this foul, not the offside foul. If the major foul is outside the 8-meter arc, but inside the 12-meter fan, penalize this foul, not the offside foul. If the major foul is outside the 12-meter fan but inside critical scoring area, penalize the offside foul; that is, move the free position up to the top center of the 12-meter fan and clear lane.

Violation of the restraining line by the defense may be a held whistle; the umpire must evaluate whether the attack is on a scoring play/maintaining advantage. The umpire may tell the defense to move back onside during the held whistle.

XC. Game Situations

The following are situations that may occur during a game when the restraining line rule is in effect. The rulings in this section should be considered official decisions.

Both the attack and the defense are offsides.
RULING: A throw is awarded for offsetting fouls. The player on each team who is closest to the restraining line should be moved back onside. The umpire should pick one player from each team closest to the spot where the play ended, below the restraining line, to take the throw. The umpire should avoid taking the throw too close to the restraining line.

The umpire is holding whistle on an offsides by the defense because the attack is on a scoring play. The attack shoots on goal but follows through over the goal circle, thus committing a goal circle foul.
RULING: A throw is awarded for offsetting fouls. The defense player closest to the restraining line should be placed back onside. The umpire should pick one player from each team and administer a throw. The throw should not be taken within 8-meters of the goal circle.

The ball is below the restraining line with the attack in possession. Defense causes a turnover but the whistle then sounds for an offsides foul by the defense. Where is the free position taken?
RULING: If the ball is outside the critical scoring area, the free position is awarded at that spot. If the ball is inside the critical scoring area, the free position is awarded at the top center of the 12-meter fan. The nearest attack player is moved to the spot of the free position and the nearest defender is placed 4 meters behind. The defender closest to the restraining line will move back onside.

The goalkeeper has moved outside her goal circle to play the ball behind goal and within the critical scoring area, when offside is called on the defense. Is the goalkeeper allowed to return to the goal circle, as the free position is to be awarded to the attack at the top of the 12-meter arc?
RULING: The goalkeeper may move back into her goal circle as long as she has not committed any other foul. This situation is similar to the goalkeeper being allowed to return to the goal circle on a slow whistle.

The goalkeeper is outside the critical scoring area when offside is called on the defense.
RULING: The goalkeeper may not return to the goal circle-no matter where the free position is to be taken.

The attack shoots and scores a goal. The umpire immediately realizes that the attack is offsides.
RULING: The umpire should sound her whistle, have everyone stand, and indicate no goal. The closest defense player below the restraining line is awarded a free position 4 meters ahead of the line. The closest attack player below the line is placed on the restraining line 4 meters behind the player taking the free position.

XD. Umpiring Suggestions

The following suggestions are offered by umpires who used the restraining line during the fall intercollegiate season.

In the three umpire system, any of the three umpires may make the offsides call. During play, the deep trail umpire (either A or B) is in the best position to monitor the restraining line. Consider setting up on or slightly below the line and turning so you can see the line as well as the area around goal.
In the two umpire system, the trail official should monitor the restraining line.
The trail umpire must be prepared to quickly transition downfield to become lead, should the defense gain possession of the ball. Fast breaks happen much more often, as there are now four players already downfield who are usually ahead of the umpires when the ball changes possession.
The attack is being called for offsides. The trail official, after making the call, should move ahead of the play, allowing one of her partners to set up and administer the free position.
When counting players for each team, count the four players behind the line rather than the seven players over the line. Count the attack players first and then the defense, or, if the attack and the defense have paired up, count four sets rather than eight individuals.
The players behind the restraining line do not always line up along the line. Be sure to look all the way back downfield when counting. Be aware that they also go to the sideline to talk with their coach.
All non-participating players must remain in their bench area. Do not allow them to stand along the boundary area. At times it can be very difficult to tell who is in the game and who is on the sideline. This can be critical when counting players behind the restraining line.

XI. Glossary

A-B-C-D-E-F-G-H-I-J-K-L-M-N-O-P-Q-R-S-T-U-V-W-X-Y-Z

BLOCKING occurs when a player moves into the path of and comes into contact with a player possessing the ball, without giving that player a chance to stop or change direction. When a player is running to receive the ball, a "blind side" defense player must give her enough time and/or space to change her direction.

BODY CHECKING is a technique whereby a defender follows each movement of an opponent's body and crosse with her body without actual body contact, causing the opponent to slow down, change direction, or pass off.

CHARGING occurs when the player in possession pushes into, shoulders, or backs into an opponent who has already established her position (but who is not necessarily stationary), making bodily contact with her.

CLEAR is any action taken by a player within the goal circle to pass or carry the ball out of the goal circle.

CLEAR SPACE indicates the space between players which is free of crosses or any parts of the body.

CRITICAL SCORING AREA is an area at the end of the field where the attacking team is shooting for the goal. Its boundaries are approximately 15 meters (16.3 yards) in front of the goal circle to 9 meters (10 yards) behind the goal circle and 15 meters (16.3 yards) to each side of the goal circle. No extra lines will be marked on the field; therefore, the critical scoring area; therefore, this area will be called at the discretion of the umpire (See diagram).

CROSSE CHECKING is an extension of body checking whereby the defender attempts to dislodge the ball from her opponent's crosse by using controlled crosse-to-crosse contact.

DEPUTY is a player on the defensive goalkeeper's team who may only enter or remain in the goal circle when her team is in possession of the ball and the goalkeeper is out of the goal circle.

DIRECTLY BEHIND THE GOAL CIRCLE is an area that lies between two lines which extend perpendicular and behind the goal lines extended, tangent to the goal circle (see Remaining in 8-meter arc).

8-meter ARC is an area in front of each goal circle. The area is inscribed by 2 lines which extend at 45 degree angles from the intersection of the goal circle and the extended goal line; the lines are connected by an arc marked 8-meters from the goal circle.

FIELD PLAYER is any player other than the goalkeeper, i.e., a defense or attack player whose primary responsibility encompasses an area outside the goal circle and to whom no special privileges have been awarded, according to the rules.

FREE SPACE TO GOAL is a path to the goal within the critical scoring area. This space is defined by two lines extending from the ball to the outside of the goal circle. No defense player will be penalized if positioned below the extension of the goal line. The free space to goal as defined above is the determinant for the foul of Obstructing the free space to the goal.

GREEN CARD is presented to the captain indicating a team caution for delay of game. The green card is a warning that the next team offense results in a yellow card to the offending player.

GROUNDED refers to any part of the goalkeeper's (or her deputy's) body touching the ground outside the goal circle for support while she attempts to play the ball from inside the goal circle.

INDIRECT FREE POSITION is the penalty awarded for a minor field foul by the defense inside the 12-meter fan. The player taking the free position may run or pass, but may not shoot until another player has played the ball. Played means, in this case, any action by the player taking the indirect free position whereby the ball leaves that player's crosse and is touched by another player. The ball is also played when the crosse of the player taking the indirect free position is checked crosse-to-crosse by a defense player. In this instance, the ball does not have to be successfully dislodged from the crosse to be "played."

LOWER SIDE OF CROSSE refers to the wood on a wooden crosse or the right side of a plastic crosse, as viewed with the pocket facing away.

MARKING is guarding an opponent within a stick's length.

PENALTY LANE is the path to the goal that is cleared when a free position is awarded to the attacking team inside the critical scoring area in an area in front of the goal line. The path is defined by the imaginary parallel lines that extend from the width of the goal circle. All other players must clear this lane when a free position is awarded in front of the goal.

PICK is a technique in which a player without the ball, by her positioning, forces the opponent to take another route. To be legal, a pick must be set within the visual field of the opponent and allow enough time and space to stop or change direction.

RED CARD is given to an offending player who is suspended and must leave the game.

SCORING PLAY is a continuous effort by the attacking team to move the ball toward the goal and to complete a shot on the goal. The scoring play is over when:

a shot is taken;
the attacking team loses possession of the ball;
the attacking team passes or carries the ball behind the level of the goal line a second time;
the attacking team stops the continuous attempt to score
the player with the ball is forced by the defense to lose her forward momentum; or
the attacking team fouls.

SLASHING is the swinging of a crosse at an opponent's crosse or body with deliberate viciousness or recklessness, even if the opponent's crosse or body is not struck.

SLOW WHISTLE is a held whistle, with flag thrown, once the attack has entered the critical scoring area and is on a scoring play.

SPHERE is an imaginary area of 18 cm. (7", or the average crosse width) which surrounds a player's head.

TOEING THE LINE refers to the placement of the foot up to, but not on, the center line.

12-METER FAN is a semi-circular area in front of each goal circle which is bounded by an arc 12-meters (39' 4") from the goal circle.

WITHIN A STICK'S LENGTH is less than or equal to the combined length of a crosse's and an arm's length. It is the distance a player must be from her opponent to be actively marking this opponent.

YELLOW CARD is presented to a player who committed a foul, warning that the next offense results in a red card.

XII. Detailed Manufacturer's Specifications

XIIA. Field Crosses

Construction
Basic materials: aluminum/titanium/graphite (handle only), fiberglass, gut, leather, nylon plastic, rubber or wood. (Recessed m' screws may be used to affix the head to handle.)

Head
The head of the stick shall be triangular in concept and shall be affixed to the handle such a way that it shall basically be in the same plane as the handle.

Pocket
The pocket of the stick shall be strung traditionally--i.e., four or five thongs (leather or synthetic materials) with 8-12 stitches cross lacing (NO mesh), and no more than 2 "shooting/throw" strings.

Other
The crosse shall be free of all sharp protruding parts or edges, and shall, in every way, provide for the safety of all players

Dimensions

Overall length: 9m. (35 1 /2") minimum, 1.1m. (43 1/4") maximum.

Head: Overall width: 23cm. (9") maximum, 18cm (7") minimum. Width measured 2.54cm. (1") above center of the stop in a molded crosse or 2.54cm. (1") above the bridge in a wooden crosse, shall be 6.7cm. (2 5/8") to 7.6cm (3") (inside).
Width measured 2.54cm. (1") above center of the stop in either a wooden or molded crosse shall be 7.6cm. (3") to 10.1cm (outside).
The head width is measured perpendicular to the extension of the length: 25.4cm. (10") to 30.5cm (12") from center of stop or bridge to the top of the head.

Walls: Wood or molded crosse 3.2cm.(1 1�4") to 4.5cm. (1 4/5") (measured at highest point). Guard soft or woven. 3.2cm. (1 1�4") to 7.0cm. (2 3/4") (measured at highest point of wall).

Depth: Combined measurements of pocket containing the wall with either wood or plastic wall shall not exceed 6.3cm. (2 1�2") (diameter of ball).

Weight: 20 oz. maximum

XIIB. Goals

Basic material: wood or pipe
Width and height: 6' by 6' inside measurements
Posts: 2" wide; white, orange or silver; wooden or pipe
Net materials: cotton, nylon, metal mesh (not recommended), synthetic
Net size: 1 1�2" mesh

The netting should be attached to the posts and cross-bar and to a point no more than 6' behind the center of the goal. The net should be anchored at the base.

The use of three-sided goals sunk firmly into the ground with no back stays is recommended. If possible, the netting should be supported from within by a back stay at each end of the cross-bar.

Any structure supporting the net between the goal should allow the goalkeeper to move freely in the back part of the goal circle. No supporting braces should be placed in the corners of the goal which would prohibit a score, i.e., ball wholly crossing the line.

If the side and bottom supports of the entire length of the goal are exposed they must be padded, unless they have flat supports or angled ground pipes which prevent the ball from re-entering the playing area after hitting the ground pipes.

XIIC. Ball

Basic material: solid rubber

Color: solid yellow

Circumference: 20 cm. (7 3/4") to 20.3 cm. (8")

Weight: 142 gm. (5 oz.) to 149 gm. (5 1/4 oz.)

Bounce test : must have a bounce of not less than 1.1m. (43") nor more than 1.3m. (51") when dropped from 1.8 meters (72") onto concrete at a temperature of approximately 18 C. (65 F.) - 23 C. (75 F.).

XIID. Uniforms

All goalkeeper's protective equipment should be close fitting and not overly increase the size of the body parts. Goalkeeper's glove may not contain any webbing.

Only equipment that complies with the specifications will be considered acceptable for the game of women's lacrosse.

XIIE. Goalie Crosses

The crosse must be free of all sharp or protruding edges and must, in every way, provide for the safety of all players.

Construction: Basic materials are aluminum, titanium, graphite (handle only), fiberglass, gut, leather, nylon, plastic, rubber, or wood. Recessed metal screws may be used to affix the head to the handle.

Head: Triangular in concept and affixed to the handle in such a way that it will basically be in the same plane as the handle.

Head width: As measured on a line perpendicular to the extension of the handle, inside measurement is 30cm (12") maximum and outside is 32.5cm (13") maximum. Length of head must be 40cm (16") and the depth is unlimited.

Pocket: Strung traditionally with six or seven thongs (leather or synthetic materials). Must be cross lacing or mesh.

Dimensions: Overall length: .9m (35 1�2") minimum, 1.22 (48") maximum.

Weight: 26 oz. maximum.