What Is a Faceoff in Lacrosse? Restart and Possession Rules
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TL;DR
The faceoff determines possession at the beginning of a period and after a goal. Two specialists clamp, rake or direct the ball while teammates sprint to the loose ball once released.
How the restart works
The players place their sticks and bodies in the permitted position, and the official starts the play. A whistle controls the release and players must respect the neutral area.
Winning the ground ball
A player may clamp the ball, rake it backward or use body position to protect it. Wings support the play by reading the bounce and arriving legally at the right time.
Faceoff specialist role
Teams may use a specialist with quick hands and strong balance. Rule changes can affect how a specialist clamps or exits, so coaching must follow the current code.
Penalties
Illegal hand position, movement before the whistle and withholding the ball can create a violation. Officials may award possession or penalize the offending team.
Related lacrosse terms
See the crease, the X position, attackman and women’s lacrosse positions.
Sources
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