NCLRA Boys Lacrosse Officiating Manual

Introduction

Welcome to boys lacrosse officiating. This manual provides essential information for new officials to understand the game, enforce rules properly, and manage games effectively. Lacrosse is a fast-paced, physical sport that requires officials to be knowledgeable, positioned correctly, and decisive.

Game Basics

Field Dimensions and Areas

The field is 110 yards long and 60 yards wide. Key areas include:

• Goals: 6 feet by 6 feet, positioned 80 yards apart with 15 yards behind each goal (end line to midfield is 55 yards)
• Crease: 9-foot radius circle around each goal where only the goalkeeper may enter
• Restraining Lines: Located 20 yards from each goal line, creating the offensive and defensive restraining areas
• Midfield Line: Divides the field in half
• Wing Areas: 20 yards by 10 yards on each side of midfield where wing players line up for face-offs
• Substitution Area: The designated box between the benches where players enter and exit

Team Composition

Each team fields 10 players: 1 goalkeeper, 3 defensemen, 3 midfielders, and 3 attackmen. Teams must keep at least 4 players (including goalkeeper) on their defensive half and 3 players on their offensive half at all times when the ball is in play.

Game Duration

Games consist of four 12-minute quarters (may vary by level). There is a 2-minute break between the first and second quarters and between the third and fourth quarters, with a 10-minute halftime between the second and third quarters.

Equipment Requirements

Player Equipment

Required protective equipment includes:

• Helmet with facemask and chinstrap (NOCSAE certified)
• Mouthguard (must be worn properly at all times)
• Gloves
• Shoulder pads
• Arm pads
• Athletic supporter/cup

Sticks

Players use crosses (sticks) that must meet specific requirements:

• Attack and midfield sticks: 40-42 inches long, head width 6.5-10 inches
• Defensive sticks: 52-72 inches long, head width 6.5-10 inches
• Goalkeeper stick: 40-72 inches long, head width 10-12 inches
• Pocket depth: Ball must be visible above the sidewall when looking at the stick from the side

Officials can conduct stick checks randomly throughout the game.

Starting Play

Face-Off Procedures

Games and each quarter begin with a face-off at midfield. Face-offs also occur after every goal.

Face-off positioning:

• Two players crouch opposite each other at midfield with sticks on the ground parallel to the midline
• Stick heads must be to the right of the ball
• Both hands and feet must be to the left of the stick head
• No part of the stick may touch the ball
• Wing players position in the wing areas, and all other players stay behind the restraining lines until possession is gained

Starting the face-off: The official blows the whistle and simultaneously says “Down,” then after a brief pause says “Set,” followed by a whistle to start play. Players may not move until the whistle sounds.

Basic Rules and Violations

Personal Fouls (1-3 minute non-releasable penalties)

These serious infractions involve dangerous or overly aggressive play:

• Slashing: Swinging stick at an opponent’s body or stick in a reckless or violent manner
• Tripping: Using the stick or body to trip an opponent
• Cross-checking: Using the handle of the stick between hands to make contact with an opponent
• Unnecessary roughness: Excessive or violent contact
• Unsportsmanlike conduct: Actions deemed unsportsmanlike, including arguing, taunting, or inappropriate language
• Illegal body check: Checking an opponent from the rear, at or below the waist, at or above the shoulders, or after the player has released the ball
• Illegal crosse: Using a stick that doesn’t meet specifications

Technical Fouls (30-second releasable penalties)

These are less serious violations:

• Holding: Impeding an opponent’s movement with hands or stick
• Interference: Impeding the movement of an opponent not in possession of the ball
• Pushing: Pushing an opponent from the rear or when not in possession of the ball
• Offside: Failing to maintain the required number of players in each half of the field
• Warding off: Using free hand or arm to hold off a defending player
• Stalling: Failing to advance the ball or keep it in play to run out the clock (get-it-in rule applies when leading)
• Crease violation: Attacking player stepping in or on the crease

Out of Bounds

When the ball goes out of bounds, the team that did not touch it last gains possession. After a shot on goal that goes out of bounds, the player nearest to the ball when it crosses the boundary is awarded possession.

Officiating Mechanics

Three-Person Crew System

Most games use three officials working together:

Referee: Positioned behind the goal being defended, primarily responsible for calling offsides, monitoring the crease, and tracking loose balls. Moves from end to end as play transitions.

Umpire: Works on one side of the field from restraining line to restraining line, focusing on body positioning, stick work, and fouls in the midfield area.

Field Judge: Works the opposite side of the field from the Umpire with similar responsibilities.

Positioning Principles

• Maintain a position that allows you to see the entire play
• Stay ahead of play when possible but avoid interfering
• Use the “trail” position when following play to the goal to see through players
• Communicate constantly with your crew using eye contact and hand signals
• Never turn your back on live play

Signaling

Clear, decisive signals are essential. Use standard lacrosse officiating signals for all calls:

• Point in the direction of possession after whistle
• Use the appropriate penalty signal and point to the penalty box
• Indicate the player number and team color when calling penalties
• Use verbal communication to support signals (“Blue ball,” “White’s ball,” etc.)

Penalty Administration

Time-Serving Penalties

Releasable penalties: Player may leave the penalty box if the opposing team scores. Most technical fouls are 30-second releasable.

Non-releasable penalties: Player must serve the full penalty time regardless of goals scored. Personal fouls are typically 1-3 minute non-releasable.

Penalty Procedure

1. Blow the whistle to stop play and signal the foul
2. Indicate the offending player’s number and team
3. Award possession to the non-offending team
4. Direct the penalized player to the penalty box
5. Report the penalty to the scorer’s table (number, team, type of foul, time)
6. Restart play with a whistle once ready

Man-Down/Man-Up Situations

When a team has one or more players in the penalty box, they play shorthanded (man-down). The opposing team has a man-up advantage. Monitor these situations carefully as physical play often increases.

Special Situations

Simultaneous Fouls

When both teams commit fouls simultaneously, if the fouls are equal in severity, the penalties offset and play resumes with a face-off. If one foul is more severe, that penalty is enforced and possession is awarded accordingly.

Coach Communication

Communicate with coaches professionally and briefly. If a coach is persistently arguing or being disruptive, issue a warning. Continued misconduct can result in unsportsmanlike conduct penalties or ejection.

Injury Situations

Stop play immediately if a player is seriously injured or if a helmet comes completely off. For minor injuries, stop play when the injured player’s team gains possession. Ensure the player receives appropriate attention and does not return to play until cleared.

Game Management

Pre-Game Responsibilities

• Arrive early and meet with your crew to review mechanics and responsibilities
• Inspect the field and goals for safety hazards
• Check in with coaches and confirm they have legal equipment
• Conduct stick checks as needed before the game
• Review any special ground rules specific to the venue

Communication and Presence

• Use a firm, clear voice when making calls
• Establish credibility through confident positioning and decision-making
• Stay calm and composed, especially during contentious moments
• Work cooperatively with your crew and support each other’s calls
• Avoid over-explaining calls; make the signal and move on

Game Control

• Call fouls consistently throughout the game
• Don’t let rough play escalate; address it early with firm calls
• Manage the pace of play; don’t delay restarts unnecessarily
• Keep players away from you during stoppages
• Be aware of score and time remaining to anticipate stalling or desperate play

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Over-officiating: Don’t call ticky-tack fouls that don’t affect play; let players play
• Poor positioning: Staying too close or too far from play limits your effectiveness
• Inconsistent calling: Establishing your standard early and maintaining it throughout
• Getting emotional: Never argue with players or coaches; remain professional
• Watching the ball only: Monitor off-ball activity where many fouls occur
• Failing to communicate: Use your voice and signals to manage the game
• Blowing the whistle without a call: Always know what you’re calling before you blow the whistle

Study and Preparation

Successful officiating requires ongoing preparation:

• Study the rulebook thoroughly and review rule changes annually
• Watch lacrosse games (in person or on video) to learn game flow
• Attend officiating clinics and training sessions
• Work games at various levels to gain experience
• Seek feedback from experienced officials and mentors
• Stay physically fit to keep up with the pace of play

Conclusion

Boys lacrosse officiating is challenging but rewarding. Your role is essential to ensuring fair competition and player safety. Focus on learning the rules, improving your positioning, and developing good judgment. With experience and dedication, you’ll grow more confident and capable in managing games at all levels.

Remember: Be fair, be consistent, and be professional. Good luck!