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1-
History & Object
2- The Essentials
(Offense & Defense, Scoring, Etc.)
3- Field Diagram and Positions
4- Fouls
5- Glossary
of Lacrosse Terms
Field of Play
Women’s lacrosse field dimensions
vary, and natural boundaries or visible
guidelines are used to determine the
perimeter of the playing area. Common
characteristics include:
Restraining line: Divides
area where a maximum of seven offensive
players and eight defensive players
(including the goalkeeper) are allowed;
otherwise, a team foul is called.
Goal: Points are scored when
the ball passes through this six-foot
by six-foot square.
Critical scoring area: Unmarked
area 15 meters in front and to the
side of the goal, and 9 meters behind
it. Includes the “fan” and
the “arc.” Defenders must
allow free
space to goal when the offense
is inside this area. Also, penalties
within this area have special consequences.
Twelve-meter fan: 12-meter
semi-circle used in the administration
of minor fouls. Also called the “fan.”
Eight-meter arc: Line inside
which defenders must be within a stick's-length
of their attackers. Used to administer
a free shot. Also called the
“arc.”
Hash marks: Five marks on
the eight-meter arc used for a free
shot. Play resumes from the
closest hash mark to the foul.
Goal circle: Circle that
surrounds the goal and indicates the
area in which only the goalie can
enter. Also called the “crease.”
Center circle: Circle in
the middle of the field where a draw
is held.
Team substitution area: Area
where substitute players may enter
the field on-the-fly.
Positions
Two teams compete with 12 players
each: a goalkeeper, 5 attackers, and
6 defenders (can also be categorized
as goalkeeper, 3 attackers, 5 midfielders,
and 3 defenders).
Attackers
Attackers include
the first home, second home, third
home, and two attack wings. The first
home 
is highly skilled with the stick
and is relied upon to score. The second
home 
is a versatile playmaker who must
get open to set up scoring opportunities.
She possesses a great shot and knack
for finding an open teammate. The
third home 
is an all-around player who is a key
to transition from defense to offense.
She must be able to quickly change
from an offensive mindset to marking.
The attack wings 
are often involved in finishing a
fast break. These speedsters need
to be strong passers and shooters.
They are often first to gain possession
off a draw.
Defenders
Defenders include
the point, coverpoint, third man,
center, defense wings, and goalkeeper.
The point 
marks the first home. Decision-making,
positioning, and shot blocking are
key skills. The coverpoint 
is usually the best one-on-one defender
who relies on speed and footwork to
mark the second home. The third
man 
is a multi-dimensional athlete whose
primary duty is disturbing the attack
in the midfield. On defense she looks
to intercept passes and quickly pick
up an open attacker. Also has occasional
scoring opportunities. The center
 is a pivotal player in transition
from defense to offense. She also
controls the draw. The defense
wings 
need to match the speed and endurance
of the attack wings and possess a
good outside shot. The goalkeeper
attempts to save each shot with
her stick, but can also use any body
part to keep the ball out of the goal.
Lightning-fast reflexes, quick decisions,
and courage are required to stop a
barrage of high-velocity shots.
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