Goalie Pads Gloves

Equipment Required for Men's Lacrosse

Lacrosse is a team sport that owes its origins to the early Native Americans. The sport was used to develop strong, young warriors in preparation for future combat with other tribes. Lacrosse originated in the early 12th century and was called different names by different tribes. The earliest known documentation of Lacrosse was made by Jesuit Missionary Jean de Brebeuf in the early 1600's. The sport was later modernized by William George Beers in the mid-1800's.

There are ten players on a Lacrosse team, and each player uses a stick officially called a "crosse" – more commonly called a lacrosse shaft or handle. There are two types: a long crosse (or long stick), which is between fifty-two and seventy-two inches long, is used by players called "defenders". The other crosse is called a short crosse (or short stick), which is used by midfielders and attackers, it is between forty and forty-two inches long.

The goal keeper uses a shaft similar in length to a long crosse, between forty and seventy-two inches long, but the head of the stick can be up to a foot wide because it is used to block shots. The goal keeper should wear extra padding as well as a throat guard. A goal keeper is the only member of the team that does not have to wear shoulder pads.

Players must wear lacrosse helmets with attached face masks, chin straps, and mandatory mouthpieces that are bright enough to be seen through a face mask. Players also wear elbow pads. A chest protector is worn, but only by the goalies of each team. There are back and rib pads, as well as slash guards that help prevent injuries from "slashing"; a personal foul where one player hits another with a Crosse.

Lacrosse shoulder pads are similar to shoulder pads worn in football except that they are lighter, and have an extension that runs down the bicep for added protection. The lacrosse gloves worn by players should be unaltered and have a snug fit. The fit of the gloves is important, as they help avoid hand injuries. Cleats and athletic supporters are also required in lacrosse.

In men's Lacrosse, a rubber ball is used which weighs approximately five ounces and is approximately eight inches in diameter. The goal is six feet high and six feet wide.

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