By Abby Strusowski and Regina Volpe -- STAFF WRITERS In lacrosse, like any other sport, the object is to score the most goals. Including the goalkeeper, there are 12 players on the field for women and 10 players for men for each team. The positions are attackers, defenders, midfielders and goalkeeper.
Listen up lax bros, here’s what you need to know to play with your sticks:
Clamp: when two players hold the ball in the netted part of their sticks.
Clear: when the ball is moved from the defensive half to the offensive half of the field.
Head: the netted top part of the stick.
Cradling: technique where the player twists the stick while running in order to keep the ball in the head.
Face-off: at the beginning of each period or after a reset; opposing players clamp the ball in between each other and fight for possession.
Feed: another name for an assist.
Ground ball: ball is on the ground (shocker, right?).Poke check: not when someone pokes you on Facebook; when a defender tries to get the ball from the other team and uses their stick to knock the other player’s stick in order to get the ball loose.
Scoop: the act of picking up a ground ball – not ice cream.
Spin move: when an offensive player is trying to evade the defense and channels their inner Michelle Kwan.
Penalties include tripping, unsportsmanlike conduct, illegal body checks, slashing and cross-checking.
Slashing: hitting another player with the stick
Cross-checking: using the portion of the stick in between a player’s hands to hit another player’s stick
Frequently Asked Question
Q: What’s the difference between men’s and women’s lacrosse?
A: Men’s lacrosse allows for a much more physical game. Cue Olivia Newton-John’s “Let’s Get Physical.” They wear more padding and helmets, whereas, women’s lacrosse does not allow body checking and they do not have to wear helmets or padding. Different sticks are used in women’s lacrosse. The men’s team has a deeper net, allowing for a rougher play style. Therefore, the women’s game encourages more passing while the men’s game focuses more running for long distances. As mentioned, there are 10 players on the field for men’s and 12 players for women’s.
Fun fact: Shuart Stadium is one of the largest lacrosse venues in the area due to the fact that it was once a football stadium.
The lacrosse season has only just begun. Now go forth with your newfound knowledge and cheer on the Pride!