Men's Field Lacrosse 101

Men's Field Lacrosse is a team game played by up to ten players: a goalie, three defensemen, three midfielders, and three attackmen. The object of the game is to shoot the ball into the opponent's goal and to keep the other team from scoring.

The game begins with a face-off. The official blows the whistle to begin, as each face-off player tries to control the ball. The players on the wings may run after the ball when the whistle sounds, however, those in the defensive area must wait until there is possession or the ball goes over the restraining line.

To stop the opposing team from scoring, defensive players use good positioning and team systems to defend their net. In younger divisions, there is limited body contact. The emphasis is to play team defense, turn the ball over, and move into offense quickly to create scoring chances. The field lacrosse game relies on controlled possession that limits turnovers.

Canada plays Field Lacrosse under the World Lacrosse rules that govern the world, national, and provincial championships. Field Lacrosse is played outdoors on a 110 m x 60 m field. Teams consist of ten players - one goalie, three defenders, three midfielders, and three attackers. Field Lacrosse differs from box lacrosse in the style of play and strategy. There is no shot clock, thus the game is more strategic and relies heavily on possession and control of the ball.  Offense and defense are played with six players versus six players with the defensive team also having a goalie. Play is structured with a reliance on systems and plays to generate offense.