Understanding Slashing in Men's Lacrosse: What You Need to Know
In men's lacrosse, one of the most serious fouls that players must avoid is slashing. Slashing occurs when a player swings their crosse (stick) at an opponent with reckless abandon or with the intention to injure. In this article, we’ll dive into the rule surrounding slashing, what constitutes a slash, and the penalties associated with this dangerous foul.
What is Slashing?
According to the National Federation of High School Lacrosse rulebook, slashing is defined as:
"Swinging a crosse at an opponent’s crosse or body with deliberate viciousness or reckless abandon, regardless of whether the opponent’s crosse or body is struck."
In simple terms, slashing doesn’t always require the player to make contact with the opponent’s crosse or body. The mere act of swinging the stick recklessly or violently is enough to draw a penalty.
How Does Slashing Look in Practice?
Slashing can take several forms, and it's essential to understand the different types of swings that are considered illegal:
Two-Handed Axe or Baseball Bat Swing:
This is the most common type of slashing, where the player swings their crosse with both hands, often in a full arc like an axe or baseball bat. This motion is typically reckless and can lead to dangerous contact with the opponent’s body or crosse.One-Handed Swing (Youth Leagues):
At the youth level (U15 and below), any one-handed swing, regardless of whether it makes contact, is an automatic slashing foul. Even if the player swings gently and does not hit the opponent, it is still considered a slash. This rule is in place to prevent improper techniques and to teach younger players the right way to check.Target Areas:
A slash can be directed at any part of the opponent's body, including:Gloves: Even if the swing connects only with the gloves, if it is violent or reckless, it can be called as slashing.
Helmet: Striking the opponent's helmet with the crosse is a dangerous move and will certainly be called as slashing.
Back, Head, or Front Body: Any area of the body is vulnerable to slashing if the swing is reckless or violent.
What Does Slashing Look Like in Action?
Here's a breakdown of what slashing might look like in a game:
Legal Checks: A legal check might involve the crosse hitting the opponent’s stick or gloves in a controlled manner. This is common in more experienced players who know how to use their stick to stop an opponent’s play.
Illegal Slashing: However, if a player winds up and delivers a hard two-handed swing to the back of an opponent (especially when they are not expecting it), that is a clear slashing foul.
Even if the swing doesn't make contact with the opponent, reckless or violent swings can still be penalized.
Penalties for Slashing
Slashing is classified as a personal foul, meaning it is a serious infraction that can result in a time penalty. Here’s what typically happens when a slashing foul is called:
Time Penalty:
The offending player will receive a one-, two-, or three-minute penalty in the penalty box. The severity of the penalty depends on how hard or reckless the swing was. If the slashing was particularly vicious or dangerous, a three-minute penalty or ejection might be imposed.
Flag Down and Goal Situation:
If a team commits a slashing foul and they score a goal while the flag is down, the goal is counted. However, the player who committed the slashing will still serve the penalty.
The game continues with a short-handed face-off for the team of the player who committed the slash.
In Youth Leagues:
As mentioned, slashing is strictly penalized in youth leagues, particularly when players swing their sticks one-handed. In these leagues, slashing can often be called even if there is no contact, simply to teach younger players the correct way to use their stick.
The Difference Between Youth and High School/College Slashing Rules
While slashing rules are largely consistent across lacrosse levels, there are some key differences when it comes to youth lacrosse:
In high school and college lacrosse, skilled players often make one-handed swings that are designed to strike the ball or the crosse. In these levels, players typically have the control and experience to execute these swings safely.
At the youth level, the focus is on teaching proper techniques, such as poke checking or lift checking (lifting the crosse from under an opponent’s stick). These techniques are safer alternatives to the violent swinging motion associated with slashing.
Coaching and Avoiding Slashing
To avoid slashing penalties, it’s essential for players to learn and practice legal checking techniques. Coaches emphasize using poke checks and lift checks as part of defensive play, teaching players how to effectively disrupt their opponents’ sticks without resorting to reckless swinging.
Additionally, younger players should be coached on the dangers of using a two-handed swing, especially in non-contact situations, to avoid unnecessary penalties and injuries. Teaching players to control their sticks and only use checks that are part of the game is key to preventing slashing fouls.
Conclusion
Slashing is a serious foul in lacrosse that can lead to dangerous situations on the field. It is defined as any reckless or violent swinging of the crosse, regardless of whether the opponent is struck. Whether you're playing at the youth, high school, or college level, it’s crucial to understand the rules surrounding slashing and the importance of controlling your stick. By practicing proper checking techniques and avoiding reckless swings, players can help ensure a safer and more fair game for everyone.
