The goal of the recreational league is to teach and foster development of the sport through instruction in both practice and game situations. Teams usually practice twice a week and play games on Saturdays using Sundays as an optional game make-up day. Practice locations and times are approved via a permitted application process thru St. Mary's County Recreation and Parks as well as private Home Owner Associations.
All division play is in accordance with USA Lacrosse Official Rules for Girls and Women’s Lacrosse. The complete rules can be viewed athttps://www.usalacrosse.com/girls-and-womens-rules. Modifications to these rules are rare and made only upon review and approval of all three counties. An abbreviated list of 12U rules follows as reviewed and approved by tri-county representatives.
From US Lacrosse - 12U lacrosse is where young athletes are honing their technical skills and begin building the tactical skills needed in lacrosse. The game they play should be reinforcing fundamental technical skills and practical tactical applications for playing lacrosse. With respect to the competition at this level, coaches, parents, and officials should emphasize: - Fun - Using technical skills in game situation - Exploring and applying new tactical skills - Sportsmanship
Players: 8v8 or 12v12, depending on size of field used. If one of the teams is unable to field a goalkeeper, both teams must play without a goalkeeper and adhere to those rule guidelines.
Field Size: 60-70 yards x 35-45 yards (cross field) or 110-140 yards x 60-70 yards
Equipment: NOCSAE lacrosse ball; USL specifications for sticks and pockets; eyewear required
Goal Size: 6x6
Play of Game: A draw is used to start play. A four-goal mercy rule can be applied and modified checking is allowed.
Game Duration – two 20-minute running clock halves, with a 5-minute halftime. Clock only stops for injuries. One (1) two-minute timeout per team. No overtime.
