NCAA

NCAA women's lacrosse uses a card-based discipline framework distinct from the men's penalty-box model.

Each team has a head coach and assistant coaches in the team area during the game. Coaches may not enter the field of play except when authorized by an official.

A player with an actual or suspected concussion is removed from play immediately and is subject to a graduated return-to-play assessment before being cleared for subsequent training and competition. NCAA medical observers and team medical staff ha...

The game starts with a draw at the center circle; draws also restart play after each goal and to begin each quarter; Two players (typically center midfielders) hold their sticks above the ground at hip level, back-to-back; the ball is placed in the up-pocket of each stick and pushed against the o...

Center circle of approximately 9-meter diameter (varies by published spec) at the center of the field; the draw is taken at the center hash by two opposing midfielders. Up to four other players from each team may stand on the center line outside the draw circle.

Rectangular field, 110 yards × 60 yards (a 70-yard width is also permissible where space allows under the 2026/27 rules); Center line dividing the field into two halves; Two restraining lines, each 30 yards from the goal lines (sometimes referred to as the "30-yard arc" framework)

Cleats are appropriate to the surface. Uniform numerals must be legible and distinct from teammates'; the goalkeeper wears a contrasting color permitting clear identification by officials.

An 8-meter free position is awarded for major fouls inside the 8-meter arc; the offended player takes a free position on the arc 8 meters from the goal; 2026/27 simplification: 8-meter free positions are set up only at the two adjacent hashes on both sides of the center hash — no longer at arbitr...

Four 15-minute quarters (NCAA women's lacrosse adopted the quartered format in recent rule cycles, replacing the prior 30-minute half format); 2-minute breaks between Q1/Q2 and Q3/Q4; 10-minute halftime; The team in possession at the end of Q1 keeps the ball to start Q2; same for Q3 → Q4 (this is...

A goal is scored when the entire ball passes the goal line into the goal, propelled by an attacking player's stick. The official confirms goals on the field; specific goal/no-goal reviewable situations may be reviewed via NCAA video review.