A Parent and Player’s Guide to the Different Types of Lacrosse

Lacrosse is a thrilling, fast-paced sport that combines elements of agility, strategy, and teamwork. As one of the oldest North American sports, its popularity has grown worldwide, with multiple versions tailored to different playing environments and skill sets. For parents and new players, understanding the types of lacrosse can help you choose the right format to play or watch. Here’s a rundown of the four main types: field lacrosse, box lacrosse, women’s lacrosse, and SIXES.

1. Field Lacrosse: The Classic Outdoor Game

Field lacrosse is the traditional form of lacrosse, played outdoors on a large field with 10 players per team, including a goalie, three defenders, three midfielders, and three attackers. The spacious field and larger roster make this version ideal for strategic plays and fast-paced movement across longer distances.

Key Features:

• Field Size: Typically 110 yards long by 60 yards wide, about the size of a soccer field.
• Team Composition: 10 players on the field per team.
• Gameplay: Players focus on both offense and defense. Midfielders, or “middies,” are the most versatile players, covering the entire field and often playing both offense and defense.

Who It’s For: Ideal for players who enjoy running and a blend of teamwork, strategy, and speed.

2. Box Lacrosse: The Indoor, High-Intensity Version

Box lacrosse is the indoor version of the game, played in hockey-style arenas on a smaller field with walls surrounding the play area. Each team has six players on the floor, including the goalie. Because of the confined space and walls, the game is faster and more physical than field lacrosse, with plenty of quick passes, shots, and close-contact play.

Key Features:

• Field Size: Roughly 180 feet long by 80 feet wide, similar to a hockey rink.
• Team Composition: Six players per team, including a goalie.
• Gameplay: Focuses on quick, powerful shots and high-pressure defense. Players need quick reflexes and the ability to make fast decisions.

Who It’s For: Great for players who enjoy intense, high-speed, and physical gameplay.

3. Women’s Lacrosse: Emphasis on Skill and Speed

Women’s lacrosse is similar to field lacrosse but has specific differences in rules, equipment, and play style, emphasizing skill, speed, and precision. With 12 players per team, including a goalie, women’s lacrosse places greater emphasis on finesse and passing.

Key Features:

• Field Size: Similar to men’s field lacrosse, with slightly different positioning and rules.
• Team Composition: 12 players per team.
• Gameplay: Played with limited physical contact, focusing on skillful stickwork and passing. Players must maintain a lighter cradle to control the ball due to the shallower pocket.

Who It’s For: Ideal for players who appreciate skill-based sports with an emphasis on precision, teamwork, and finesse.

4. SIXES Lacrosse: Fast, Small-Sided Play

SIXES lacrosse, also known simply as “SIXES,” is a newer, small-sided version of the game created to increase speed and scoring. It’s played on a smaller field with six players per team, including the goalie. The game emphasizes speed, skill, and non-stop action, making it an exciting, fast-paced version perfect for all levels.

Key Features:

• Field Size: Smaller than traditional field lacrosse, allowing for faster transitions.
• Team Composition: Six players per team, including a goalie.
• Gameplay: Features a 30-second shot clock, quick transitions, and minimal stoppages, which keep the action constantly moving.

Who It’s For: Perfect for players who want a fast, continuous game with lots of scoring. It’s also an excellent training format to build agility and quick decision-making skills.

Finding the Right Fit

Each type of lacrosse offers unique aspects that can appeal to different players:

• Field lacrosse is ideal for players who thrive in outdoor, strategic environments.
• Box lacrosse offers a more intense, close-contact experience indoors.
• Women’s lacrosse is perfect for those who enjoy skill-based play with less physical contact.
• SIXES lacrosse is a great introduction to the sport, focusing on speed and constant action.

For parents and players new to lacrosse, exploring each format can help find the best fit, whether it’s for competitive play or recreational enjoyment. Whichever type you choose, lacrosse is a fantastic way to develop teamwork, athleticism, and a love for the game.