In lacrosse, an illegal screen or interference is a foul that occurs when a player illegally obstructs the movement of an opponent, typically to help a teammate gain an advantage. While screens are an important part of the game, allowing players to set up plays and free up teammates, they must be executed within the rules. Understanding what constitutes an illegal screen and how to avoid it is essential for maintaining a clean and effective game.
An illegal screen occurs when a player uses their body to block or obstruct the movement of an opponent in an illegal manner, typically to prevent the defender from guarding their teammate. The screen must be set in a way that adheres to certain rules for it to be legal. If a player sets the screen improperly—such as making illegal contact with the defender or positioning themselves incorrectly—it results in a penalty for interference.