Lacrosse FAQs
What is lacrosse and how do you play it?
Box lacrosse is played indoors, on an arena floor. Each player carries a lacrosse stick, and attempts to run, pass, and shoot a lacrosse ball past an opposing goalie into the other teams’ net. Many people believe hockey is lacrosse’s closest relation. However, lacrosse also resembles similar to basketball with a very distinctive offensive and defensive strategies.
- Each team has 5 players and a goalie on the floor at one time.
- Each time the lacrosse ball enters the opponent’s net is a single point. The team with the most points (goals) at the end of the game wins.
- The sport utilizes shot clocks, and each team has 30 seconds to take a shot on the opposing goalie or they lose possession of the ball.
- The game is structured with two (2) 20-minute halves or four (4) quarters. The last two (2) minutes are stop time.
Field lacrosse is played outdoors on field turf or grass. It is usually a five (5) week season with 10-15 games played. Each player carries a lacrosse stick, and attempts to run, pass, and shoot a lacrosse ball past an opposing goalie into the other teams’ net.
- Teams are composed of nine (9) players plus a goalie on the field at one time. There are various positions: attack, middies, defenders, and goalie.
- Each time the lacrosse ball enters the opponent’s net is a single point. The team with the most points (goals) at the end of the game wins.
- There is no shot clock in field lacrosse.
- The game is structured with two (2) 25-minute halves or four (4) quarters. The last two (2) minutes are stop time, only if the score difference is 5 or less.
Why play box lacrosse or field lacrosse?
Box lacrosse is the fastest and most dynamic game on two feet. From improved mental acuity, increased fitness, socialization and team building, lacrosse is the perfect sport for kids to play – and it’s not only fun to play, it’s fun for the parents to watch as well. It’s Canada’s official summer sport, truly Canadian and traditional to this nation.
Field lacrosse rules are different than box lacrosse, as there is no cross checking, no shot clock, increased space and strategic positions on the field. The nets are 6’x6′ and the goalies wear less equipment. It is possible for a team not to touch the ball all game, as possession is key in field lacrosse.
Lacrosse is the fastest growing sport in North America, and will return to the Olympic Games in 2028.
Is there a physical component to lacrosse?
Yes, lacrosse is a physical sport and contact is phased or tiered into the play structure.
- House lacrosse leagues from U5 to U9 has no contact
- Box rep lacrosse leagues from U7 and above has full contact
- Field lacrosse leagues for U9 has no contact; U11 has partial contact; U13 and above has full contact
Body checking, cross checking, stick checks, and picks are techniques used in box lacrosse. In field lacrosse, there are no cross checks and other techniques/rules are slightly modified.
These techniques are taught and utilized at all age groups and levels across lacrosse when the children are younger. There are strict regulations governing how each component is utilized. There is zero tolerance for hitting from behind or head/neck shots. Players are constantly encouraged to play lacrosse with their head’s up. All coaches and trainers must have concussion training fully observing Rowan’s Law.
What type of equipment is required to play lacrosse?
Certain pieces of hockey equipment can be used for lacrosse, however it is recommended that players use lacrosse specific gear. Hockey gloves are not the same as lacrosse gloves! Lacrosse packages including gloves, kidney pads and arm guards can be purchased at a reasonable price from sporting retailers.
Please review the Ontario Lacrosse Association’s equipment requirements:
- Box lacrosse equipment guidelines
- Field lacrosse equipment guidelines
- Women’s field lacrosse equipment guidelines
Can my child play for Milton having never played before?
Yes! First time players at any age can pick up the sport very quickly. A lot of players do not start until they are 11 years old.
Are there boundaries for players and their respective association?
Yes, there are boundaries and players must register in their home association in order to play. Please review the Ontario Lacrosse Association’s boundary document for quick access.
How is the league administered?
Milton Minor Lacrosse Association is administered by the Ontario Lacrosse Association, and is part of Zone 10. Rep/competitive teams play/travel in this Zone 10 loop, house league stays within the association.
How can my child prepare for lacrosse?
New players can practice the basic skills at home with their lacrosse stick – catching, throwing, and cradling the ball. “Wall Ball”, “rebounders” or catch with a parent can help with catching/throwing aspects. “Cradle Babies” or similar homemade devices can help with controlling and cradling the ball while moving.
Lacrosse is a skill like any other – practice leads to perfection!
What are provincials?
The Ontario Lacrosse Festival provincials are a massive season-end tournament, held in Whitby, Ontario during the first week of August. Every competitive team in the province is invited and grouped with 16 teams of equal skill based on their rankings. This tournament is fantastic and the ultimate goal for every lacrosse team in the province. The provincial tournament has multiple vendors, merchandise, activities, scouts, pros, events and great lacrosse at all ages and levels.
How can I help?
Find out more about how you can volunteer with us!
