Difference Between NCAA and NFHS Lacrosse Rules
The NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) and NFHS (National Federation of State High School Associations) govern lacrosse at different levels, and while they share many similarities, there are key differences in their rules.
1. Governing Bodies & Levels of Play
|
Organization |
Level of Play |
Governs |
|
NCAA |
College Lacrosse |
Men's and Women's College Lacrosse |
|
NFHS |
High School Lacrosse |
Boys' and Girls' High School Lacrosse |
- NCAA rules apply to college athletesand are more advanced.
- NFHS rules govern high school lacrosse, with safety-focused regulations for younger athletes.
2. Stick & Pocket Regulations
|
Aspect |
NCAA Rules |
NFHS Rules |
|
Stick Length (Attack/Midfield) |
40"–42" |
40"–42" |
|
Stick Length (Defense) |
52"–72" |
52"–72" |
|
Pocket Depth |
Ball must be visible above the plastic when viewed from the front |
Stricter pocket depth enforcement |
|
Shooting Strings |
Max of 4 shooting strings within 4 inches of the scoop |
Shooting strings must be within 4 inches of the scoop |
|
Head Width |
Minimum 6 inches at widest point |
Can be slightly narrower than NCAA |
3. Contact & Physical Play
|
Aspect |
NCAA Rules |
NFHS Rules |
|
Body Checking |
More physical play allowed |
Stricter enforcement for safety |
|
Slashing & Cross-Checks |
Less strict penalties |
More protective rules for younger players |
|
Hits to the Head/Neck |
Results in a penalty |
Results in an automatic penalty and possible ejection |
- NFHS emphasizes player safetymore strictly, limiting aggressive physical play.
- NCAA allows more physicalitydue to players being older and more experienced.
4. Game Play Differences
|
Aspect |
NCAA Rules |
NFHS Rules |
|
Shot Clock |
60-second shot clock |
No shot clock (except in some states) |
|
Faceoffs |
Strict "standing neutral grip" enforcement |
Less strict faceoff rules |
|
Overtime Rules |
Sudden victory overtime |
Varies by state; usually sudden victory |
|
Time Serving Fouls |
Stricter penalty enforcement |
Officials may be more lenient with enforcement |
- NCAA enforces a shot clock, requiring faster-paced play.
- NFHS does not have a universal shot clock, making possession control more important.
5. Uniform & Equipment Differences
|
Aspect |
NCAA Rules |
NFHS Rules |
|
Jersey Numbers |
0-99 allowed |
0-99 allowed |
|
Shoulder Pads |
Must be NOCSAE-certified |
Must be NOCSAE-certified |
|
Helmet Fit Standards |
Stricter enforcement |
Strict but varies by enforcement |
- Both leagues require NOCSAE-certified equipment, but NCAA officials inspect gear more strictly.
Which Rules Should You Follow?
- If you're playing high school lacrosse, follow NFHS rulesunless your state modifies them.
- If you're playing college lacrosse, follow NCAA rules.
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