What Are the 10 Positions in Lacrosse? Understanding Lacrosse Roles and Responsibilities
Lacrosse, a fast-paced and dynamic sport, features ten distinct positions, each with specific roles and responsibilities. While the precise names and nuances may vary slightly between men's and women's lacrosse, and even between different levels of play, the fundamental roles remain consistent. This guide breaks down the ten key positions, offering a comprehensive understanding of their contributions to the game.
1. Goalkeeper (Goaltender)
The goalkeeper is the last line of defense, positioned in the goal to prevent the opposing team from scoring. This is a crucial role requiring exceptional reflexes, agility, and quick decision-making. They are responsible for blocking shots, controlling rebounds, and communicating with their defensive teammates. Goalkeepers often wear specialized equipment, including a larger protective helmet and larger padded gloves than other players.
2. Defense
Defense players are the first line of defense, protecting the goal from the opposing team's attack. They work to intercept passes, disrupt offensive plays, and force turnovers. Defense players must possess excellent positioning, quickness, and anticipation skills. They often employ physical checks (legal within the rules of the game) to slow down or stop opposing attackers.
3. Long-Stick Midfielder (LSM)
The long-stick midfielder combines defensive and offensive responsibilities. Equipped with a longer stick than midfielders, they transition quickly between defense and offense, contributing to both aspects of the game. LSMs typically focus on disrupting the opponent’s attack but can also contribute to clearing the ball out of their defensive zone and joining the fast break upfield.
4. Close Defense
Close defense players focus specifically on guarding the opponent's top offensive players, usually the attackmen. Their primary role is one-on-one defense; they shadow their assigned attacker, aiming to prevent them from receiving passes or shooting the ball. They're known for their physicality and tenacity.
5. Midfielder (Middie)
Midfielders are crucial for transition, seamlessly shifting between offense and defense. Their responsibilities include controlling the midfield, winning ground balls, and creating scoring opportunities. They are often responsible for both offensive and defensive transitions. They demonstrate speed, endurance, and a strong ability to read the game.
6. Attackman (Attack)
Attackmen are the primary offensive players, responsible for scoring goals. They are typically positioned closer to the goal, utilizing skillful stick work to shoot, pass, and dodge defenders. Their speed, agility, and shooting accuracy are key attributes. Attack players have many creative ways to move the ball around and close to the goal.
7. Face-off Specialist
The face-off specialist takes part in the initial draw that starts each possession. Their primary skill lies in their ability to win face-offs, thereby securing possession for their team. This role requires incredible strength, technique, and quick reactions. This position often gets overlooked, but it is crucial for possession control.
8. Offensive Midfielder
The offensive midfielder is often seen as an extension of the attack. They focus on setting up plays, passing the ball to the attackmen, and creating scoring opportunities. They are usually very skilled stick handlers, possessing creativity and strong passing ability.
9. Clearing Midfielder
This player, especially important in men's lacrosse, is in charge of moving the ball from the defensive zone up field, safely out of the defensive end and starting an offensive transition. They must be able to clear the ball quickly and effectively to start a fast-break opportunity.
10. Wing Players
In some lacrosse strategies and formations, Wing players play a supportive role within the attack. Their responsibilities include helping to control the ball, keeping the flow of the game going on the offensive side. They may also help with assists.
Important Note: The exact number of players on the field simultaneously may vary based on the lacrosse variant (men's, women's, box lacrosse), and the specific strategy of a particular team. However, these 10 positional roles represent the fundamental components of a lacrosse team's structure. Players can also exhibit versatility, playing multiple positions effectively depending on the needs of their team.
