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BOX LACROSSE INFORMATION

WHAT IS BOX LACROSSE

The game originated in Canada, where it is the most popular version of lacrosse. It is played between two teams of five players and one goalie each.  Traditionally the game is played on an ice hockey rink once the ice has been removed or covered. There are more similarities to hockey and basketball than field lacrosse. The video on this page shows youth box lacrosse games along with former players, and coaches discussing the benefits of box lacrosse.  (NOTE:  We play a modified version of box lacrosse with more rules around checking.   Players wear the same equipment as field lacrosse players, except for the goalie.)

Like traditional lacrosse, the objective of box lacrosse is to score more goals than the opposing team by shooting the ball into the opponent's goal. The enclosed space leads to fast transitions between offense and defense, making the game high-scoring and exciting.

Overall, box lacrosse emphasizes speed, agility, teamwork, and quick decision-making, while providing a more intense and physical experience compared to the outdoor version.

FIELD AND BOX LACROSSE DIFFERENCES

  • Box has 1 goalie and 5 runners (all runners are like field lacrosse midfielders)
  • Box is played in a hockey rink - without the ice - it may be covered with turf, or it may be concrete
  • No longpoles allowed in box lacrosse
  •  Smaller net in box lacrosse (4'x4' vs 6'x6')
  • Game play is in 3 15-minute periods
  • Players are substituted frequently - every 3 minutes or so - due to the fast pace.  12U/14U change on the fly & 10U rotates every 2 min.
  • No cross checking.  No boarding or forceful checking of players into boards.  
  • Interference rule:  No contact when ball is loose or automatic change of possession.  So no "man-ball" when the ball is loose.
  • 2 min & 5 min penalties. 
  • Scrum Rule:   10U only
  • No minimum passes to have a "hot" ball at any level

BENEFITS OF BOX LACROSSE

  • Conditioning, box is a very fast paced game
  • High number of touches
  • Builds creativity and stick skills
  • Great preparation for field season

LEAGUES IN THE TWIN CITIES

There are a few league options in the Twin cities.  Game play is an hybrid field/box combination (no cross-checking, no shot clock).

The season runs late February through mid-April.