Play Lacrosse

Understand the time factors and scoring. Know the four player positions. Learn the basic rules and then start with some simple drills to develop the basic skills to begin playing.

The Game

Lacrosse is played with 2 teams of 10 players each. The object of lacrosse is to score by delivering a 2 1/2” diameter, 5oz. solid rubber ball into the goal of your opponent, and to prevent the other team from getting the ball and scoring. The ball can be carried, thrown, or batted with the crosse (stick), or rolled or kicked.

Games usually consist of four 15-minute quarters – 60 minutes per game. The length of a box or field lacrosse game is 60 minutes, with 4 quarters lasting 15 minutes each. High School games are 12 minute quarters. Women's lacrosse matches are divided into halves, and range in length from 50 to 60 minutes. Youth lacrosse games last from 8 or 12 minute quarters to three 20 minute periods.

The Field

A lacrosse field is a flat grass or turf rectangle, 60 yards by 110 yards, with lines designating the midfield, attack areas, and the crease. Click here to see the layout and dimensions of a lacrosse field.

The Rules

The rules of lacrosse are not particularly complicated. The rules for indoor lacrosse are different than outdoor. High school ru les and girls rules vary as well. Click here for an official rule book.

Player Positions

You play lacrosse in one of four positions – Attack, Midfielder (Middie), Defenseman, and Goalie. Each plays a different role and uses equipment specific to the role.

Attack: Generally restricted to the offensive end, attack’s job is to score goals.

Midfield: Middies cover the entire field playing both offense and defense.

Defense: Generally restricted to the defensive end, the defenseman's job is to defend the goal.

Goalkeeper: The goalie protects the goal and stop the opponent’s team from scoring.

Equipment

If you play sports like hockey and football, you know equipment can be expensive. Click here to see the equipment used in lacrosse and how to evaluate it.

Don’t miss the Lacrosse Hall of Fame. Every year exceptional players and coaches in the sport are recognized for contributing to lacrosse.

Learn how to play lax today and become part of the fastest growing game in America.

Experts teach you how to play lacrosse. Lacrosse is a combination of basketball, soccer and hockey that requires coordination and agility, quickness and speed rather than brawn. It’s an exhilarating, fast-paced sport called “The Quickest Sport on Two Feet” for a good reason.

Sprints up and down the field, abrupt starts and stops, and precise passes are all routine in men's and women's lacrosse. Not to mention 100 mph shots fired past you or at you.

It’s also the oldest sport in North America with a history that spans centuries. Having originated with Native Americans, some called the sport "the little brother of war" because it was considered excellent military training. The history of lacrosse will help you understand the nature of the game.

Besides a US Lacrosse Quick Guide to learn lacrosse basics, go watch a game and sign up for instructional play with an ever expanding list of lacrosse clubs, clinics, and summer camps.