Lacrosse field lines

Lacrosse is one of the fastest sports on two feet, so understanding what all the field markings mean is vital. Luckily, lacrosse field lines are exactly what we’re going to cover in today’s article. Check out our full selection of lacrosse field and training accessories to see more options.

In this article, we’ll cover:

There are eight different types of lines on a lacrosse field. From the crease to the sideline, there are multiple different rules for each line. Some rules will be shared, like going out of bounds on the sideline or end line, but other lines have vastly different rules.

The end lines mark the ends of the field behind each goal. If the ball is passed or carried past this line then the ball will be given to the other team. However, if a ball is shot passed this line then it will be given to the closest team to the ball, allowing teams to maintain possession on offense. 

The midfield line marks the center of the field. This is where every faceoff is taken and it marks where offsides are called. Each team must have 3 attackers on the offensive side and 4 defenders (3 defenders plus the goalie) on the defensive side. If not enough players are on each side the referee will give the ball to the other team and throw a flag for a 30-second penalty. The midfield line also marks how far the offense can take the ball. After clearing the ball, if the offensive team carries or passes the ball past the midfield line, the referee will go over and back and award the opposing team the ball at midfield.

The side lines mark the sides of the field perpendicular to the midfield line. If the ball is passed or carried passed this line then the ball will be given to the other team. However, if a ball is shot passed this line then it will be given to the closest team to the ball, allowing teams to maintain possession on offense. 

The restraining lines are the lines between the end line and the midfield line. Also referred to as the box, the restraining lines have multiple roles during a game. During a faceoff, the attackers and defenders must stay behind the restraining line until a midfielder picks up the ball. When a defender gains possession of the ball they get 20 seconds to clear the ball to the opposing team's restraining line. Also when the offensive team gains possession off of a penalty they are not allowed to start with the ball inside the restraining lines.

Goal line extended is an imaginary line that extends the goal line to the sidelines. This is only used for coaching, there are no rules that involve the goal line extended. This line is used to teach defenders when to turn and to remain in the correct position.

The crease is the circle surrounding each goal. The crease is there to protect the goalie, offensive players are not allowed to enter it with or without the ball. The defense is allowed to enter it briefly but is not allowed to intentionally block a shot. When the goalie saves a shot they get 4 seconds to either pass the ball or leave the crease. While the goalie has the ball in the crease, no other player is allowed to make contact with the goalie.

The substitution area is the 10-yard wide box near the players' bench at midfield. This is where both teams will substitute players. Players can substitute in and out of the field on the fly without a whistle to stop play. However, teams need to make sure that they have no more than 10 players on the field and that they do not break offside rules.

The wing area is located between the restraining line and the sideline. This is where most possessions will start after a penalty and is used as a marker for players to know where they are on the field. There are no penalties for crossing this line.

Where is the restraining line in men's lacrosse?

The restraining lines are the lines between the end line and the midfield line. Approximately 20 yards from the midfield line.

How do you lay out a lacrosse field?

A lacrosse field is 110 by 60 yards with the restraining linds starting 20 yards from midfield and 10 yards from the sideline. The front of the goal is located 15 yards from the end line and is surrounded by a crease with a 6-yard diameter.

What is the restraining line in women's lacrosse?

The restraining line in women’s lacrosse works the same way as the midfield line in men’s lacrosse. Its role is to keep players onside and only 7 offensive players are allowed by it.

What is the two-point arc in lacrosse?

The two-point arc is a pro-exclusive rule for the PLL. Just like basketball, anything shot beyond the two-point arc is worth two points if scored.

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Lacrosse is one of the fastest sports on two feet, so understanding what all the field markings mean is vital. Hopefully, after this article, we have furthered your knowledge of all the field markings in lacrosse! Check out our full selection of lacrosse field and training accessories to see more options.