Quick Explanation of Cross-Checking in Men’s Lacrosse
Cross-checking occurs when a player uses the shaft of their stick between their hands to push, check, or hit an opponent. It’s a dangerous move and is illegal across all levels of the game, though the strictness of enforcement varies depending on the age and competition level.
Key Points:
• Definition: Using the shaft of the stick to check or hit an opponent.
• Penalty: Cross-checking typically results in a 1-2 minute releasable penalty.
• Enforcement Variations: Refs are stricter at youth levels, more lenient at professional levels.
Detailed Explanation:
1. Definition:
• In men’s lacrosse, a cross-check is called when a player uses the portion of the stick between their hands to push or strike an opponent. This differs from a legal body check, which requires the defender to use their body or the controlled part of their stick (the part with one hand on it) to make contact.
2. Legal Body Checks vs. Cross-Checking:
• Legal Body Check: A check where contact is made with the body or using the hands on the stick in a controlled manner.
• Cross-Check: Involves extending the arms and pushing the opponent with the shaft, which can cause injury due to the force involved.
3. Penalty for Cross-Checking:
• Most commonly, a cross-checking foul results in a 1-minute releasable penalty, meaning the offending player is sent to the penalty box, and the team plays one man down for the duration or until the opposing team scores.
• More severe cross-checks—especially those involving targeting the head or neck—may result in 2-minute non-releasable penalties, or even ejections depending on the severity of the hit.
4. Different Levels of Enforcement:
• Youth Lacrosse: Referees are highly vigilant about protecting younger players, strictly enforcing the cross-check rule. Any push or check involving the stick shaft is likely to result in an immediate whistle.
• High School and College Lacrosse: Cross-checks are still called frequently but referees may allow a bit more physicality, especially if the contact is marginal or done within the context of play. However, excessive force or high hits will be penalized.
• Professional Lacrosse: At the pro level, officials are often more lenient with cross-checks, particularly in defensive plays. The referees may allow more aggressive play as long as the cross-check does not pose a significant injury risk or appears too forceful.
Conclusion:
Cross-checking is an illegal move at every level of men’s lacrosse, but how rigorously it is enforced depends largely on the level of play. From youth leagues where safety is paramount to professional leagues where physicality is part of the game, understanding how cross-checks are called is key for both players and coaches in managing risk and staying competitive.
