Glossary - Game Play  (See Skill Analysis)

• Box Lacrosse/Field Lacrosse/Sixes:  Box lacrosse is a discipline (style) of lacrosse played with 6 players per side (5 runners & 1 goalie), in an enclosed area surrounded by boards & plexiglass (“glass”). Most Leagues allow teams up to 25 players on a roster, able to "dress" up to 18 runners and 2 goalies during a game.  Box lacrosse is best described as a game of quickness and reaction (anticipation; action; reaction).  It is similar to basketball and hockey in terms of it's game play.

• “House” League:  A local lacrosse League that operates in a home centre (town/city), governed by the rules and protocols of the provincial "Association," playing games and practicing with/against other local players throughout the course of a 10-week "season." These leagues are less competitive than “rep league” and focus more on skill development.

• Select League/“Rep” League/Travel League/Try-Outs:  "Select" or rep'" is a travel lacrosse League where the best (most competitive & skilled) players represent their "home-centre," competing against other rep teams in their "Zone" during the regular season, playoffs and tournaments.

• Minor Lacrosse:  Ages 3-16.  Most “Minor” lacrosse Leagues have a few different rules pertaining to game play, compared to “Junior” and “Senior” lacrosse. Age groups are divided by two year intervals (i.e. kids born in 2005 & 2006 play against each other), which ultimately becomes good “preparation” for “Junior” lacrosse (ages 17-21). Minor Lacrosse divisions are as follows: 5U, 7U, 9U, 11U, 13U, 15U, 17U.  

• Junior & Intermediate Lacrosse:  “Junior” eligible lacrosse players are ages 17-21; “Intermediate” lacrosse Leagues can also be played by players ages 17-19.  Players are usually given a certain level of leniency within the rules once they reach this age group, which makes for a more exciting and “tougher” brand of lacrosse.  “A” is the highest level of play, whereas “B” lacrosse, being more tight-knit and locally-oriented, is often a much more physical brand of lacrosse than the faster paced “A” game. 

• Senior Lacrosse/Major Lacrosse/Professional Lacrosse:  Ages 21+. Players are given as much or more leniency than Junior lacrosse players and should be “refereed” like men. Usually it’s not quite as fast-paced, as players are much smarter about how they play, conserving energy where possible and capitalizing on the mistakes of the opponent. As opposed to “forcing” plays that are “low percentage” and running around recklessly, they use experience and veteran savvy to outsmart opponents. That said, “hard-work” is usually the biggest difference in ultimately winning or losing a game. Loose balls and ball possession usually translate into wins and losses.

• Masters Lacrosse:  Ages 35-65. Masters lacrosse is enjoyed by players 35 or older, including Grand Masters aged 45 and older. All CLA (Canadian Lacrosse Associations) rules are the same with the following exceptions: no shoulder pads (with caps) are allowed to be worn, no unnecessary roughness is permitted (“push-checks” only), players have five seconds to pass the ball upon gaining possession, when the ball is near the boards the closest player gets an attempt at the ball with no intentional contact allowed by the opponent (1^st to the ball rule), and lastly, any dangerous shots that hit players are to be penalized as a minor penalty of 2 minutes.

• Registration/Training Camp/Exhibition/Pre-Season/Regular-Season/Playoffs/Post-Season/Tournaments:  After completing a pre-emptive “registration” process (waivers & fees), there are generally 3 aspects to a season (from an administrators perspective): pre-season (exhibition), in-season (regular season) and post-season (playoffs).

• Associations/Organizations/Zones/Home Centres/Leagues:  Lacrosse Associations are governing bodies, structured bureaucratically, beginning nationally (National Sport Organization) with the CLA (Canadian Lacrosse Association), then as a Provincial Sport Organization (i.e. Ontario Lacrosse Association - OLA), then divided into community districts/zones (Community Sport Organization), usually playing in Leagues against whichever teams are in the closest proximity to each other.

• Equipment/Fitting/Illegal Equipment Penalty/Player (“Runner”) & “Goalie” (Goaltender/Net-Minder):  Lacrosse players (“runners”) are required to wear shoulder pads, elbow pads, biceps pads, kidney pads, helmets, gloves and shoes, and if not are at risk of being called for an “illegal equipment penalty” (wearing jewelry is a “game misconduct”). Shoes should not be "street shoes," with most players preferring a high-cut basketball shoe over a low-cut cross-trainer. A "jock" or "jill" (protective cup) is also highly recommended, especially for goalies.

• Helmets & Masks:  Helmets and masks must be CSA (Canadian Standards Association) approved. Face masks must not be altered and only certain styles are approved. Players caught wearing anything not approved are at risk of being ejected from the game.

• Gloves:  Lacrosse gloves are light and flexible and are specifically designed for the freedom required for “stick handling.” The “cuffs” must be tight enough to cover the wrist, but loose enough to allow for unrestricted movement. Hockey gloves can be used but it should be noted that due to the stiffness of the wrist and thumb (less flexibility), they tend to interfere with the finer movements involved with handling of the stick.

• Kidney Pads/Rib Pads/Back Pads:  These pads are not required for non-contact games (Masters) and are a safety precaution for partial contact games of younger players (Peanut). These pads are necessary equipment during contact games because of the vulnerability of the back, kidneys and ribs.

• Arm Guards/Slash Guards/Biceps Pads/Inserts/Shoulder Pads/Chest Pads:  “Checking” in lacrosse takes place on the arms (hands), shoulders, and chest/back. The pads covering these areas must have a cushioning effect to absorb the force of physical contact, and must be hard enough to withstand direct hits from the stick. “Shoulder/Chest pads,” “arm guards (elbow pads)," "biceps pads/inserts,” and “kidney/back pads” are sold separately, or sometimes as one unit with the parts laced together so they can be adjusted to the size of the players.

• Full Equipment/Full Gear/Fully Padded:  Most practices commence with players fully padded, but occasionally coaches will allow players to practice in “helmets & gloves.”

• “Helmets & Gloves”/Light Equipment/“Lights”:  If players have had a high volume week in terms of games and practices, some coaches will give players the liberty of practicing in “helmets & gloves” only, rather than full equipment (goalies are usually still in full equipment).

• Lacrosse Box/Lacrosse Bowl/Arena (See Legend):  The term used in indoor (box) lacrosse referring to the entire “playing surface” on which the game is played. The box is technically the outside area surrounded by boards and glass, like that found in a regular sized hockey arena.  The standard arena floor in North America measures 200 feet (61m) long by 85 feet (26m) wide. 

• Glass (See Legend):  Plexiglass is usually fastened to the top of the boards that surround a box, except for the bench areas. This is the same “glass” you find in hockey rinks around the world helping keep the puck/ball in play, with seamless glass being the highest quality and preferred glass.

• Floor/Playing Surface:  The area enclosed within the “box.” The floor is usually made out of concrete, turf, or wood (parquet).

• Side-Boards (See Legend):  The boards fixated lengthwise along the side of the box.

• Half-Board/Mid-Board/“The Wall” (See Legend):  Referencing half way between the “end boards” behind the goal and the "rag line." Some people also reference the half-board area as the “mid-board” or “the wall,” which is an inherited hockey term that could otherwise be related to informally practicing against a wall (see “wall ball”).

• End-Boards (See Legend):  The boards fixated width-wise behind the back of the net.

• Corners (See Legend):  The area of the floor where the “side-boards” meet the end-boards.

• Out Of Bounds (See Legend):  When the ball bounces outside of the box during the game, the game clock is usually stopped, and whoever touched the ball last before it went out, it becomes the other team’s ball. This is also true on shots that hit the goalie (saves) and go out of bounds.

• Game Clock/Scoreboard/Time-Keeper/Score-Keeper (See Legend):  The clock in an arena/box that shows the time remaining in each period/quarter, as well as penalty times, the score of the game (number of goals for each team) and sometimes shots on goal (aka number of saves for each team), is known as the "game clock."

• Games/Regulation Time/Periods/Quarters/Halves/Intermissions:  Lacrosse “games” in Junior & Senior are usually sixty minutes in total length (aka “regulation time”), divided into 3 “periods” or 4 “quarters,” or less commonly two “halves.”

• Overtime/Extra Time/Sudden Victory:  If a game is tied after "regulation time" "Minor" lacrosse Leagues will usually just end the game as a tie (during the regular season). Extra time is often added for tournaments and provincial/national championships, after an initial round-robin format, where ties are still in effect. In quarters/semis/final games usually “sudden victory” is played; the first goal scored in overtime is the game winner.

• Net/“Cage”/Goal Posts/Cross-Bar/Junction:   Minor - 4’ x 4’; Junior/Senior – 4’ x 4’6”; Professional – 4’ x 4’9.” Lacrosse nets vary in size, with “goal-posts” (area surrounding the net) often varying in diameter from net to net. The post across the top of the net is known as the "cross-bar" and where the cross-bar joins the post is known as the "junction" (it takes a very skilled shot to hit the junction).

• Goal-Line/End-Line (See Legend):  The line that runs from post to post along the ground, across the front of the net. The ball has to completely cross this line in order for the opposing team to be awarded a goal.

• Crease (See Legend)/“Back-In” Rule/“5 Second Rule”/Checking Through The Crease Penalty/Checking In The Crease Penalty:  The “crease” is a nine-foot radius surrounding the net. There are several rules pertaining to the crease which surrounds the goal in box lacrosse. Firstly, when an offensive player has the ball his/her feet and stick cannot touch any part of the crease, or the play is to be whistled down by the referee and it is a loss of possession. If the ball enters the net before the player steps on or over the crease line, a goal is awarded.

• Defensive Zone/Defensive “End” (See Legend):  The area from the rag-line (or centre-line) to the end boards behind the goal/net a team is defending is referred to as the “defensive zone.” The defensive and offensive zone themselves are also known as an “ends.”

• “High” (Up)/“Low” (Down):  Whether in the offensive or defensive zone, “high” (up) is considered away from the goal/net, out towards the outside shooters. “Low” (down) is considered close to the net, by the crease and/or "goal-line-extended."  Adjacent defenders need to communicate who has "high" and who has "low" in order to avoid any miscommunications or breakdowns. 

• Open-Floor:  This is any part of the playing surface (“box”) away from the “boards” area (2 metres away), usually referred to when the ball is in, or approaching, the “neutral zone.”

• Up-Floor/Up The Floor:  Toward the opponent’s goal/net. The direction defensive players should be trying to run immediately after picking up a loose ball.

• Rag Lines/Restraining Lines (See Legend):  Two lines that run width-wise and parallel across the top and bottom of the “face-off circle.” These lines act as “restraining lines” during a “face-off,” with players not allowed to cross until the ball has left the "face-off dot," otherwise “possession” gets awarded to the opposing team. Players are allowed to move freely behind the lines until the face-off whistle is blown and before the ball leaves the face-off dot.

• Half Line/Centre Line:  Applicable only in the NLL (National Lacrosse League), the half line is similar to the rag line in that once the ball crosses into the offensive zone that particular team cannot allow it to cross back-over the line, or it is a loss of possession and the other team gains control (at all times). If the other team (on defense) knocks it back-over as a result of incidental contact (not deliberate), play resumes as normal.

• Neutral Zone/Centre-Floor/Half-Floor (See Legend):  The area between the rag lines, where the “face-off circle” is located.

• Referee's Area/Referee's Circle (See Legend):  A half circle between the rag lines, located near the penalty box and score keeper's area. Only team captains are allowed to talk to referees when they are discussing a situation in the "referee's area," usually once the referee's finish their dialogue and make a judgement on a controversial play in the game.

• Far End (See Legend):  The opposite side of the neutral zone (rag line), relative to where the ball is on the floor. Otherwise, generally referred to as the end that is furthest away from one’s own bench.

• Offensive Zone/Offensive “End” (See Legend):  The area from the rag line (or centre-line) to the end boards behind the goal/net that a team is trying to defend. The offensive and defensive zone themselves are also known as an “ends.”

• Player’s “Bench” (See Legend):  There are two player’s benches, one per team, located on the same side or opposite sides, found outside of the box, usually near the neutral zone. This is where “line changes” take place when players are finished their “shift.”

• Face-Off Circle/Face-Off Dot/Foot Lines (See Legend):  The face-off area consists of a small dot within a two-foot circle (collectively known as the “face-off dot”), with a larger circle surrounding it. Running parallel, lengthwise along the face-off dot, are two foot lines which the face-off-takers feet are not supposed to cross, otherwise possession should be awarded to the opposing team (not “called” very consistently by referee’s it seems).

• Balls/India Rubber Ball (Lacrosse Ball)/High Density Foam Ball/Tennis Ball:  Made from authentic Indian rubber (from India), this is a heavy ball relative to its size and at times can spin randomly due to the forces applied to it. The oldest and first rule in lacrosse is that you cannot touch the ball with your hands; the ball itself is filled with history.

• New Ball/“Freshy”/Old Ball/Greaser/Dog Ball:  Lacrosse players should always be encouraged to practice how they play and as such, practicing with new lacrosse balls is ideal. That said, one day of playing “wall ball” is usually enough to turn a “freshy” into a “greaser.”

• Ball Spin/English:  India rubber balls are prone to taking awkward bounces that players will slowly become familiar with, via experience. Sometimes the way a player throws the ball also adds a certain element of spin, either purposely or because of an unorthodox release, which can be tricky to read for goalies and players alike.

• Synthetic Stick (Head, Mouth, Throat, Shaft & Butt-End)/Ball Stop/Wood Stick “Woody”/Twig/Crosse:  A typical synthetic lacrosse stick (otherwise known as a "twig" or "crosse") is typically made up of two pieces, a “shaft” (titanium, composite or wood) and a “head.” The bottom of the shaft is called the “butt-end” and the other end of the shaft where it attaches to the head is known as “the throat.” At the bottom of the inside of a head ("throat") is a soft foam pad known as a "ball stop" (preventing the ball from popping out of the stick upon entry), and at the top of the head it's known as the "mouth," which is where shooting strings are typically found.

• Stick “Pinch”/Stick “Check”/Illegal Stick:  A term used to describe the shape of the head, a “pinch” refers to a more narrow shape. Players will often mold their heads in the oven (4 minutes at 400° - using string to pull the head into a specific shape), but too much pinch can be costly in more ways than one.

• Mesh/"Pocket"/“Diamonds”/Stick Stringing/“Shooting Strings”/"Side Wall"/“Top String”/“Bottom String”/“Tweaking”:  The “pocket” is where the ball sits inside of a stick “head;” high, middle or low; deep or shallow, based on personal preference and consistency. Tightening, loosening and/or double looping (2 “diamonds” per hole versus 1 diamond per hole) the “sidewall strings” that attach along the outside of the stick head (holes) and hold the “mesh” in place, are the most effective ways to shape a pocket (otherwise known as “tweaking” a stick). These strings must be adjusted evenly on both sides in order for a stick to throw consistently accurate; whereas the new Warrior "Warp" stick has various custom pockets that don't require adjusting.  Otherwise, certain individuals are generally known as the stick "guru's" around town, and much time must be spent to figure out the art of stick stringing (stringking.com/ustring).  The first question a good stick stringer should ask is "what style of game do you play?"  

• Hook/Whip:  The amount of hold or pull applied to the ball by the strings tied into the stick. A lot of pull will create more “hook” or hold, which creates a harder shot, and is better for ball protection and throwing stick fakes. Less hook will allow the ball to come out of the stick with a quicker release, usually with less hold on the ball.

• Stick Tricks/Trick Shots:  Stick tricks are outlandish manoeuvres with the stick, done primarily off the floor as a means to practice hand-eye co-ordination and develop a “feel” for the stick. Players that are serious about the game are generally carrying their stick almost everywhere they go.

• Manager/Head Coach/Assistant Coach/Coaching Staff/Trainers:  The hierarchy on most teams is as follows: General Manager, Head Coach, Assistant Coaches (Including Team Trainers), Team “Captains,” Players. If no general manager exists then the head coach is the ultimate authority on the team.

• “Chalk Talk”:  If players are having trouble grasping a particular concept, drill or skill, attempting to explain all of the particulars on the floor in order to try and make a drill run smoothly, usually just makes things worse. It’s generally best to just skip the drill and come back to it at a later time, taking the time to explain the particulars during a “chalk talk” session, either after practice, or prior to the next one. Floor time is expensive and should be utilized as efficiently and therefore as effectively as possible.

• Practice/Drills:  Practice makes permanent. How a coach runs a practice will directly translate into the product they see on the floor. Practices should be progressively developed from the pre-season, to in-season, to post-season. A base of skill development (“scaffolding”) and conditioning should also be established in the pre-season, maintained in-season and peak during the playoffs (post-season).

• “Wall Ball”/“Having A Toss”/“Tossing The Rock” (See Stickwork Drill #1):  “Wall ball” is an informal practice session where a player can work on skills that they are currently struggling with, or otherwise make sure that their sticks are throwing the way they like (so there are no excuses during formal practices/games). It can take from 4000 to 40 000 hours to master any skill, and the majority of this time will need to be accumulated away from the arena, practicing against a wall, shooting on a net, at an outdoor box, or “having a toss” with a buddy. Where possible, try to practice the way you play (wear gloves); practice at full speed.

• Motor Skills/Motor “Patterns”/Manipulation Skills/Muscle Memory:  Practicing can otherwise be called refining individual and collective locomotor (movement) and manipulation skills (locomotor and manipulative “patterns” together make up what we call “motor skills”). Variables such as locomotor patterns are often taken for granted, but young players must learn to perform them correctly and therefore efficiently (See ABC’s Of Running) in order to apply them in relevant movement situations. Using one’s hands or feet to manipulate an object is one of the hardest and most mentally demanding skills to learn.

• Fundamentals:  At the most Basic Level, the fundamentals of lacrosse are the skills that are required to realistically play a game of lacrosse: Warming Up, Individual Defense, Scooping (Loose Balls), Cradling (Ball Protection), Basic Transition, Passing & Catching, and Individual Offense. As players become more confident with the fundamentals they can begin to practice and disguise techniques such as: different release points, faking and hitching, for example.

• “Scaffolding”/"Chunking"/Progressive Development/Demonstrating/"Walk Through"/Re-Hashing/Skill Development:  With the introduction of any new drill, the time frame allotted in the practice plan will usually be greater, primarily for demonstration/diagram purposes. Coaches should ask players if they have any questions after providing the drill descriptions, and any substantial clarifications can be further explained at the end of the practice or perhaps during “chalk talk” sessions (avoid fielding too many questions or giving lengthy clarifications, especially with young kids).

• Scrimmage/Controlled Scrimmage/Small-Sided Games (See Games Drill #19):  Scrimmages are shortened versions of games played during practice, or during rep team "try-outs." They can be used as a means of formative assessment (observing the general skill level of the players) or as part of a “scaffolding” technique used to motivate the players (skill application).

• Team “Captains”/Leaders/Veterans/Rookies/Call-Ups:  It is important that a coach/teacher identify and work with their leaders from the get go. Most teams end up with one “Captain” and two “Assistants” who represent the players, but any variation or combination of up to three representatives (i.e. 1 Captain only; 3 Assistants only; 1 Captain, 1 Assistant) is allowed in a game (highlighted on the game sheet) by most Leagues.

• Teammates:  Teammates should trust and respect each other as though they were soldiers fighting together, for their country (team). Teammates don’t need to be best friends off of the floor, but every teammate should be humble and respectful towards the team, if they think that they are going to win a championship.

• Jersey/Sweater/Pinny:  The trend in today’s sporting environment is to wear dark jerseys ("sweaters") at home and white jerseys on the "road"(while traveling). It used to be opposite, but likely the clean white best represents the team while in another team’s home box. Goalies’ jerseys are obviously much larger, with all jerseys made from the lightest weight, most breathable material possible (style is nice too).

• Home Team/Away Team/Road Team/Visitors:  Whether playing “house league” or “rep league” lacrosse, ideally one team is wearing dark jerseys and the other team is wearing light (white) jerseys; something distinctly different. The trend in today’s sporting environment is to wear dark jerseys at “home” and white jerseys on “the road” (while traveling).

• Warm-Ups/Informal Warm-Ups/Formal Warm-Ups (See Game Day Warm Up):  Ideally teams will arrive at least an hour before a game (preferably more), with enough time for 2 warm-ups: Informal (no equipment) & Formal (full equipment). If there is some sort of time constraint or floor availability issue, informal and formal warm-ups can be combined into one warm-up, or, informal warm-ups can take place off the floor, outside of the arena. Informal warm-up is generally used to get the sticks and bodies of players responsive, with a “dynamic warm-up” at the top of the list of priorities. A few basic shooting drills are also usually then done for goalies.

• General Warm-Up:  A series of basic calisthenics (body weight activities), done before dynamic stretches, which are used to get the blood moving (break a sweat) and joints lubricated. During training, this could entail (20m x 4): run forward/backpedal backward (twice), side-shuffle with arm swings (both directions twice), tracking forward/backward (twice), carioca (both directions twice). During practices and games, a general warm-up could also be a simple drill done at 75% of max intensity.

• Dynamic Stretches:  A series of movements that eventually takes all of the working muscles through their active range of motion (ROM). A proper dynamic warm-up should be done prior to the initiation of any form of exercise (using sport specific movements), after a general warm-up.

• Cool Down/Static Stretches:  At the end of a hard practice, training session or game, players should be given 2-3 minutes to cool down (light jog or easy drill done at 75% effort), which helps flush the lactic acid out from muscles and also lower a players heart rate. “Static stretches” usually follow, which are intended to hold muscles in a series of elongated positions for an extended period of time (30 seconds is best practice), ideally addressing all of the major muscles groups. They should be done following any form of exercise (ideally directly after); otherwise in the morning, at night before bed, or at one’s leisure; in order to prevent injury and increase flexibility.

• Roster/Line-Up/“Dressed”/Line-Up Sheet:  Line-Up Sheets are usually printed in thick cardstock paper, with written out line/unit combinations and posted in the dressing room after informal warm-up on game days.  In certain instances players may find out days prior to the game, or even after “formal warm-up.” Depending on the calibre of the League, some coaches will use the line-up as a means to communicate with players (positive and negative reinforcement). In the higher levels of lacrosse there are also players on the team that are not necessarily in the line-up on any given night. These players must still dress for warm-ups and prepare as though they are going to play, as occasionally the unexpected happens and these players may be needed, added to the line-up just prior to the start of the game.

• Lines/Drill Lines:  Depending on the game plan, coaches will list on the Line-Up Sheet what “lines” and units they think are best suited against a particular opponent, or to practice with. In a Two-Way transition system for instance, this might be three lines of five players, with subs and special teams. In the Offense-Defense System it might list two units of either offense or defense, alongside the typical special teams.

• Special Teams/Units:  A group of players designated to perform certain duties during certain situations in the game. Power-play and short-handed are two of the most notable “special teams” used during the game due to their frequency of use, but other special teams include: “Ball Back Team,” “Face-Off/Loose Ball Team” and last minute defensive/offensive units.  Most special teams have two units, otherwise it usually depends on how tired one group is versus the other, or the situation, with the first unit being the most relied upon. If the 2^nd unit is playing better than the 1^st unit during a game, or over a stretch of games, it should be considered whether to make them “starters,” or to change the line-up entirely.

• Starters/Back-Ups:  All positions on the different special team units usually have a starter and back-up. The different special team units include: power-play, short-handed, “face-off/loose ball team.”  Other special teams/units are usually put together on the spot (i.e. “Ball Back” teams). Power-play & short-handed 1^st units usually also double as “6-on-5” last minute offensive/defensive "units" as well. Sometimes players that are playing exceptionally well during the game might also be added to a unit late in a game, while players having a bad night might be removed. All players should know exactly where they are on the line-up sheet prior to a game or practice, and be held accountable if their unit is called and they aren’t on the floor. If players who are called to be on the floor are too tired to go out, they should let the coach know as soon as possible, ideally before or after the unit is called.

• Playing Time/“PT”:  The amount of time a player is on the floor during a game. Usually the marquee players on a team will get more playing time, as they are often on multiple “special teams.”

• Sitting Players/Benching Players/Challenging Players/“Cleaning Up The Bench”:  In order to establish authority and credibility as a coach, as well as “accountability” amongst players, coaches need, at times, to adjust the amount of “playing time” and “responsibilities” of individual players. “Sitting” or “benching” players is ultimately a reduction in playing time or responsibility. This is considered negative reinforcement as a coach, but is sending a direct message (making a point) that a certain action or series of actions, on or off the floor, is detrimental to the team and will not be tolerated.

• Huddle/Cohesion:  Before the start of each game or period, and during time-outs, players often “huddle up” as a team or as special units. Coaches may or may not be involved, as sometimes players are able to huddle up during other sorts of stoppages, if the opportunity presents itself. Huddles usually discuss and reinforce game plans, or someone (e.g. captain) says something motivational and/or timely, assessing the current situation.

• Game Sheet:  Most formal games of lacrosse are scored on a “game sheet;” as well as the game clock. Date, location, time, team names, coach names, rosters, referee names (signatures upon game conclusion); goals, assists, penalties, and the times at which they occur, all appear on a standard game sheet sanctioned by a hypothetical Association.

• Even Strength/5-On-5/Illegal Substitution Penalty:  When teams have the same/equal amount of offensive and defensive players out on the floor (in play) at any given time, they are said to be playing at “even strength.” If there are not equal numbers on the floor, usually there is a player in the “penalty box” or a team has “pulled” the goalie.

• Referees/Officials/Rules:  Referees’ major responsibilities are to moderate the “flow” of the game, call penalties, “minor interference,” and shots on goal (“re-sets”); aside from awarding “goals” and “assists.” Coaches and players need to get a feel for how “tight” the game is being called and adjust their game according to the precedents that have been set. Good referees will also give instructions to players during games like “lay-off” or “shorten-up” if they feel cross- checks or slashes are getting too aggressive, which they should then call a penalty for if the player doesn’t desist.

• 30 Second Shot Clock (See Legend):  A team has 30 seconds to get a shot on goal once they’ve obtained clear possession of the ball, otherwise the play is stopped by the official and ball possession is awarded to the other team.

• Re-Sets/“Multiple Re-Sets”:  A “re-set” of the 30 second shot-clock happens predominantly after a shot on a goal, but also: when there is a “dead ball,” a “turnover,” when the ball goes out of bounds, on a “10 second” call, a “shot clock” violation, or any other possession related call.

• Situation/Scenario:  Players on both offense and defense should always know what the “situation” is before stepping onto the floor. It could be power-play, short-handed, “multiple re-set” or a number of other potential “scenarios.”

• Face-Off/Draw (See Games Drill #5):  The start of the game, the start of each period, and after every goal, the play begins with a face-off (also known as a “draw”). Each face-off begins with two players at the “face-off dot” (inside of the rag/restraining lines), with their right shoulder’s facing their own “goal/net,” their sticks flat on the ground, and their stick “pockets” in a back-to-back position. The ball is then placed between the two sticks (without touching & straight - not tilted) and on the whistle players must pull back, with their feet and arms, using their body weight, quick reactions, and artful stick manoeuvres to try and work the ball free, gaining possession for their team.

• Face-Off Stance:  Face-off-takers should be strong, flexible, with quick hands & reactions, endurance, agility and “pursuit.” The stance a player chooses is an individual preference but a well-balanced position with weight (centre of mass) slightly over the ball (crouched), feet hip-width apart, parallel, and hands spread wide, is best practice. The stance of a player should also not reveal (disguise) their intended move/tactic, as multiple moves (clamp, half-clamp tie-up, screw-driver plunger, etc.) are usually needed based on teams making “adjustments” to the other team’s face-off tendencies.

• Face-Off Team/Loose “Ball Team”:  A special team unit made up of a team’s best ball handlers and/or players with the best work ethic and loose ball skills. Most teams will “dress” more defensive “personnel” than offensive players overall and thus “ball teams” are usually made up of mostly, if not all, defensive players (plus they are usually tougher players). Certain situations in the game, though, might also affect which personnel is on the loose ball team, including being down a few goals late in a game and if the other team has a premiere face-off-taker; “adjustments” are usually quite frequent.

• Whistle/Cadence (See Games Drill #5):  The cadence of a referee is the words and actions they use before blowing the whistle for a face-off. Down, set, “whistle” being the normal routine. Referees are instructed to not be predictable in the pace of their cadence, but the best face-off-takers are great at anticipating the referee’s cadence. It helps if the face-off-taker looks at the referee while facing off.

• Trapping:  The first motion of the face-off-taker has to be a pulling back motion, and if not, possession should be awarded to the opposite team (which doesn't always happen). Referees will often give a warning to “pull” before making the call, but if players don’t pull back and simply push forward putting all of their weight overtop of the ball, a “trapping” call is at risk of being made.

• Possession:  When there is a loose ball on the floor, technically neither team has "possession" of the ball in that moment. Every player should theoretically have an equal opportunity to pick up a loose ball.  If this fact is not honoured, then possession is usually awarded to the player that is interfered with (see "minor interference").  Often big "scrums" for the ball will develop as players continue to "keep the ball alive, in an effort to retain possession of the ball (especially off of face-offs). 

• Withholding The Ball:  Lacrosse players are great with their use of deception and at times are able to quickly trap (withhold) the ball against their body while fending off a double-team for example, in order to maintain possession (gain an advantage). Some will even try to put their thumb on the ball while one-handed cradling. They may also withhold the ball under their foot in a scrum against the boards, or under their stick or body on a face-off. There are many situations, but if deliberate, and caught by the eye of the referee, all are a loss of possession.

• “9-Feet”/3 metres (See Defense Drill #16A):  If at any point during a lacrosse game possession is awarded to the opposing team, players on the defensive side of the ball carrier need to give that player “9-feet” of space before the referee will start the play.

• Minor Interference:  Every player should theoretically have an equal opportunity to pick up a loose ball. If this fact is not honoured, then possession is usually awarded to the player that is interfered with. However, some players that are bigger and/or faster than other players can also use these attributes to obtain a legal advantage while corraling a loose ball. For instance, a bigger player may use his/her body to “box-out” their opponent from a loose ball if they get to it first. If a speedy player is obstructed by a bigger player who has not yet established their position, then possession should be awarded to the speedy player who is illegally obstructed with.

• Pushing-Off/Warding-Off/Free-Arm:  A player in possession of the ball is not allowed to use a “free-arm” to “push-off” or control the direction/movement of an opponent. The result of this sort of play is usually a loss of possession, with the defining factor usually being visible extension of the arm. A free-arm is only allowed to absorb contact from an opponent.

• Goal/"Snipe"/Score:  A “goal” is when the ball enters the net, or goes completely across the goal-line. The last player on the “scoring” team to touch the ball prior to it entering the net is awarded the goal. A really nice looking (or accurate) goal is otherwise known as a "snipe."
  

• Stinging A Corner/Painting a Corner/"Tucking" It In:  When a player "scores" a goal with a very hard and accurate outside shot it is otherwise known as "stinging" or "painting" the corner. When a shot hits a "top corner" on an inside shot it is also known as "tucking" it in the top corner, named after lacrosse legend John Tucker who was famous for these sorts of goals "in tight."

• Assist/Apple:  An assist (“apple”) is awarded to either one or two players, assuming they were one of the two last players to touch the ball before their teammate scored a goal. If a defender plays or possesses the ball in between this time, assists shall not be awarded.

• Points/Statistics:  Different Leagues keep (record) different “statistics” both on the game sheet and informally, ranging from just goals and assists, wins and losses; successful loose balls, forced turnovers and total saves (shots on goal).

• Shots On Goal/Saves/Stops:  When a player takes a “shot at the net,” it will either go into the net for a goal, miss the net, or the ball will hit the goalie for what is known as a “save” (or “stop”). When a goalie successfully gets their body or stick in front of a shot and it happens to then goes out of bounds, the team that shot the ball retains possession. Most Leagues don’t formally keep track of “shots on goal” until Junior or Senior level lacrosse, it is usually a very telling statistic about the nature of a game.

• Dead Ball:  When play is stopped for a face-off, a penalty or a “time-out,” it is known as a “dead ball.” “Major” penalties cannot be released from the penalty box until a dead ball occurs.

• Shift/“Double-Shift”:  Shifts usually last approximately 30 seconds on average (Offense-Defense) unless there is a re-set on the shot clock for whatever reason, or if playing a Two-Way transition system (45-60 seconds). At the end of a shift, teams will attempt to “execute” a full line change in order to get rested players and/or players with certain skill-sets on the floor.

• Effort/“Hard Work”/Hustle/Conditioning/Endurance/Fitness/“Good Shape”/Fatigue/Training Status/Nutritional Status (See Cardio Skills Analysis):  Lacrosse players are expected to be giving 100% effort at all times while on the lacrosse floor, otherwise they should be looking to line change. If players look sluggish, aloof, or are generally having a bad game, “nutritional status,” “fitness” and/or mental focus are usually the main culprits.  Players might blame their stick (which is legitimate for beginners), or being “hurt,” or this or that, but they should not be allowed/encouraged to make "excuses," only challenged (nutritional log?) to be better (unless legitimately injured).

• Line Change/“Subbing”/Utilizing The Bench/Bench Order (See Transition Drill #3B):  A line change is when one or more players substitute off of the floor, switching with another player on the “bench” of the same team. After a “shift” of on average 45 seconds (in Minor lacrosse), players should look to “change” unless a “fast-break” is happening, at which point players may need to stay on the floor to help either prevent or create, a scoring opportunity.

• Offensive Door/“Front Door”:  The door on the player’s bench that is closest to the opposing team’s goal/net.

• Bench Assist (See Goaltending Drill #3B):   A defender that runs “hard to the bench” beating an opponent off of the floor, and creating a fast-break opportunity that leads to a goal, is informally referred to as having created a “bench assist” and should be praised/encouraged by the coaches and teammates alike. Even if no goal is scored, this concept still requires great attention. It works both ways, as offensive players running hard to the bench can also eliminate fast-breaks and thereby prevent goals against.

• Defensive Door/“Back-Door”:  The door on the player’s bench that is closest to a team’s own goal/net.

• Short Change (See Legend & Defense Drill #15A):  Whether headed to the “offensive zone” or the “defensive zone,” the short change is the side of the player’s bench (door) that is closest to the zone the player is attempting to get to (1st & 3rd Period/Quarter). For Instance, offensive players can utilize the short change to try to get breakaways off of a quick change by a defender, gaining 10 metres in transition, from one door to the other. Defenders are able to get on the floor quicker on a short change, which allows them more time to pressure up in an attempt to run time off of the opposing team’s shot clock.

• Long Change (See Legend & Defense Drill #15B):  Whether headed to the offensive zone or the defensive zone, the long change is the side of the player’s bench (door) that is furthest from the zone the player is attempting to get to (2nd Period/4th Quarter). Offensive players have increased responsibility to defend against “reverse transition” when defensive players have the long change. Defensive players should utilize this fact and try to take chances in transition while also attempting to get “offensive specialists” “caught” and having to play defense.

• Bench-Side (See Legend):  The area close to the “side board” that the players’ bench is located on. The general team rule for line changes is that players should always keep the ball away from the “bench side” in order to not risk an illegal substitution penalty or potentially getting double-teamed by an opponent coming off of the bench.

• Far-Side (See Legend):  The side-board furthest away from a player, relatively speaking, otherwise generally referred to as opposite of the “bench side.” Outlets should always be present on the “far side” of the floor (away from the bench-side) when "Breaking Out" in transition; offenders should cover the far side when defending against reverse transition.

• Strong-Side/3-Player Side (See Offense Drill #11):  The side of the floor that has the most offensive players on it (right-handed or left-handed); usually 3 players (sometimes 4). 

• Weak-Side/2-Player Side (See Defense Drill #12A):  The side of the floor that has the least offensive players on it (lefts or rights), usually 2 players. 

• Same-Side/Near-Side:  Multiple members of the same team on one side of the floor together, are considered to be on the “same-side.” The near-side is considered the closest side-board relative to the player, and can also refer to the closest (“near side”) end-board.

• Opposite-Side:  Teammates that are on opposite sides of the floor relative to each other (see proper floor sides).

• On-Ball/Ball-Side:  The side of the floor that the ball is located on. The opposite of “off-ball,” otherwise known as the “ball-side.”

• Off-Ball/“Back-Side”:  The side of the floor that the ball is not located on. The opposite of “on-ball,” otherwise known as the “backside” of the play.

• Top-Side/Overtop:  Towards the middle of the floor (Inside Lane). For the majority of the game, defensive players try to maintain top-side positioning (forcing offensive players underneath) and offensive players try to take control of it.

• Board-Side:  Close to the side-boards relative to the "imaginary line" that distinguishes a player being on their proper floor side; otherwise known as the Outside Lane, back-side of the play, or the “back-door.”

• East-West/Side-To-Side (See Legend):  In reference to game play, most often either to the angle on which a pick is being set, or the direction in which a player is carrying the ball. East-west refers to a lacrosse play that moves in the direction of side-boards to side-boards. Teams need to get the ball moving east-west effectively in order to consistently score goals.  East-west (inside-out) picks are usually also the most effective in terms of getting teammates open in "the middle."
  

• North-South/Downhill/Turning "The Corner" (See Legend):  North-south refers to game play, most often either the angle on which a pick is being set or the direction in which a player is carrying the ball. Also known as going "downhill," it is a lacrosse play that moves in the direction of “end-boards” to end-boards. On offense getting north-south with the ball after beating a defender top-side is known as "turning the corner" and is pivotal in regards to getting quality inside shots.

• Underneath:  The opposite of top-side, going "underneath" refers to an offensive player trying to beat a defender one-on-one towards the board-side (Outside Lane). Off-ball cuts underneath are also known as back door cutting.

• Goal-Line-Extended (GLE):  A line (real or imaginary) a few metres in front of the end boards, that moves outwards from the goal posts, out to the side boards. A high percentage of "quick stick" goals happen from a player receiving a pass while standing at or near GLE, especially off of a “fake shot.”

• Minor Penalties/Major Penalties/Misconducts/Gross & Match Penalties:  2-minute “minor penalties” are released after 1 goal against and 5 minute “majors” are released after 2-goals against, otherwise penalties are released when the penalty time expires (except in multiple penalty scenarios).

• Drawing Penalties/Drawing Calls/Diving:  If a player knows they are being “over-checked,” some will take “dives” or otherwise make a check look over-aggressive, in order to “draw a penalty” or “minor interference” call from the referee. It is usually obvious when this happens during a game, but sometimes referees will instinctively make a call when they may perhaps have had a bad view of what actually happened. Players who dive often usually end up with a bad reputation and some referees will even give them an unsportsmanlike penalty or delay of game penalty, if they think it is excessive.

• Trading/Coincidental Penalties:  If a defensive “egg and spooner” can create a “coincidental penalty” situation somehow, it is usually considered a good “trade” for the team. If a regular defender can entice a premiere goal scorer (play maker) into punching (roughing) them, and create a scenario where they are removed from the game to serve a penalty; again this is a good job (trade) by the defender.

• Delayed Penalty/Slow Whistle:  If a defending player commits a minor or major penalty against an opponent in possession of the ball, the official raises their hand and does not blow the whistle until a shot is taken, the 30 second shot clock expires, a goal is scored, or possession is lost.

• Wrap-Around Penalty:  This is a unique penalty to box lacrosse and is similar to being “on the back” in field lacrosse. As soon as the defender takes one hand off of their stick and places it on the offender’s back (key criteria), followed by a one-handed wrap-around slash, the player is at risk of being called for this penalty. A good defender can still make this play, but the defining factor is if the defender puts their hand on an opponent’s back for leverage while performing the check, throwing a wild slash. This can also be called a holding penalty, depending on the result of the check, so players need to be very careful when taking one hand off their stick on defense.

• Illegal Cross-Checking Penalty/Checking From Behind Penalty/Slashing Penalty/High Sticking Penalty:  Cross-checking and slashing are the two most basic manoeuvres used for defense in box lacrosse, but both can also be called penalties if not performed correctly. Cross-checks are legal if they are done between the opponent’s waist and shoulder. Anything above the shoulder is a “high-stick” and anything below is called an “illegal cross-check;” both are penalties.

• Butt-Ending Penalty:  Using the end of the shaft of the “stick” in a jabbing motion. The “butt-end” has to be completely visible for the ref to make this call, otherwise it is a tactic that can be craftily used when “turning & grabbing,” on defense.

• Spearing Penalty:  A violent stabbing motion, usually directed at the head or gut of an opponent, not to be confused with a “poke check,” which is a more controlled movement similar to a spear.

• Holding Penalty:  When a player impedes the progress of any player using their arms/legs, or by “holding” their stick, (with or without the ball), they fit the criteria for a holding penalty.

• Hooking Penalty:  The act of using the stick in a way that enables a player to restrain an opponent’s body/motion. If the action is stick-on-stick (see clamping) it is usually permitted. Players must gauge the precedents set forth by the referee and play accordingly.

• Tripping Penalty:  When a player intentionally puts their stick or body in a position that causes an opponent to trip. If the player is tripped and doesn’t completely fall, a penalty might still be assessed. Most often this penalty happens when a player’s stick gets caught in an opponent’s legs, when they stick their leg out as an opponent runs by, or when a defender ducks as a ball carrier dodges them.

• Elbowing Penalty:  The use of an extended elbow in a way that may or may not cause injury. Usually this call is made on an elbow that is directed at the head of an opponent or on an attempted “body-check” gone wrong.

• Head-Butting Penalty:  The action of a player using their head to attempt to make contact with another player. If done accidentally during a “bull rush” or through incidental contact (accident), no call should be made. It is usually very obvious when a player has the intent to throw a “head-butt.”