Lacrosse is a high energy and exciting sport to play so it is no surprise that kids are joining up in droves. Lacrosse has elements of a lot of different sports like American football and even hockey but the game play is completely unique. Similar to other sports, most positions use the same basic equipment with a few exceptions:
Attackmen – Usually the best stick handlers on the team, they are responsible for the offence and must be highly adept at dodging using either hand. They only play defense if the opposing team is trying to clear the ball from their defensive zone. They use the basic load out of equipment.- Defensemen – These players have to be aggressive and enjoy physical contact because they are the main things stopping the Attackmen’s advance. They use a stick that is slightly longer than the Attackmen to give a bit of an advantage. Except for the stick the basic equipment load out is the same.
- Goalie – Often a former ice hockey or soccer goalie because they have to be able to track a rubber ball going upwards of 100 miles per hour. In addition to the basic equipment load out a goalie uses a larger stick, a chest protector and throat guard.
- Midfielders – Thought of as the most important position because they must play both offense and defense plus it is a great place to start as a new player. They use the standard equipment load out.
The basic load out of equipment for Lacrosse consists of:
- A Stick – One of the most common mistakes a new player can make is to buy an expensive stick. The most expensive sticks are designed with an experienced player in mind so the head is a lot narrower. This will make it harder to catch and throw for new players.
- Helmet – With all of the bodily contact and use of sticks, having a little extra protection for your head just makes sense. Wear your helmet and avoid those concussions!
- Shoulder Pads – They act as shock absorbers to keep you from experiencing neck or spinal damage from the often violent contact with other players.
- Arm Pads – A good idea to help avoid bone bruises and possible breaks
- Gloves – They may seem unimportant but your hands get really beat up during Lacrosse and finger breaks are not uncommon.