Blog: Ace

What is Lacrosse?

It originated in North America, and the objective is to score as many goals as possible using the small pocket at the end of the lacrosse stick to shoot and pass the ball. You cannot pick up the ball. A match lasts 80 minutes — four 20-minute quarters.

To release the ball from your possession, an opponent can hit your stick or charge into your body. The playing area is similar in size to a football pitch, and you can play behind the goalkeeper’s goal

How many players are there in each team?
Each team comprises a goalkeeper, three defenders, three attackers and three midfielders. Midfielders are allowed anywhere on the pitch, but each team must have a minimum of three players in its defensive half throughout the match

What constitutes a foul?
Penalties are split into two categories — personal fouls (slashing and illegal head checks) and technical fouls (tripping and obstructions). Fouls are up to the referee’s indiscretion, and he will sin-bin players who illegally try to win back possession

How did you get started?
My family have been involved since I was born, and my cousin and uncle played for England. I have been playing since I was six

How would I start?
Contact the English Lacrosse Association on www.englishlacrosse.co.uk or on 0161 834 4582. There are lacrosse development officers in the country who travel to local schools to promote the sport. The best way for children to start is by joining a club and playing pop lacrosse

What is pop lacrosse?
A non-physical form of lacrosse that introduces young children to the sport — similar to the concept of touch rugby. The players use plastic lacrosse sticks and rubber balls, play on smaller pitches, and no contact is allowed

What is the attraction of the sport?
The sport is very fast and competitive, and I enjoy the physical element

Are there any disadvantages?
The sport is mainly confined to the northwest of England. There are not many clubs in the south

What skills are needed?
Hand-eye co-ordination, good stick control, speed, strength, awareness, stamina, alertness and communication within a team

What is the first thing a beginner would have to learn?
Catching and throwing the ball using the lacrosse stick

What is the best way to improve your game?
Stand about five metres away from a brick wall, throw the ball against it and try to catch it with the lacrosse stick

What is the most important thing a beginner would have to learn?
Playing with both hands. At the highest level, players need to catch and throw with their weak hand as well as their stronger one

How common are injuries?
Broken bones do happen, but are uncommon. It is a contact sport, so cuts and bruises are normal

What equipment would a beginner need?
A helmet, gloves and a lacrosse stick. Chest pads and other protective clothing are available but optional

How much does it cost?
A new helmet would cost about £100, sticks are between £50 and £100, and gloves cost about £70

How often do you compete?
During the season — between September and April — I compete most weekends and train twice a week

What advice would you give to somebody thinking of taking up lacrosse?
Do not be afraid of the ball. Be confident when going into a challenge, because if you hesitate, you are more likely to get injured

by Ace on 08:44 on 18th February 2010