High School Rule Changes for 2016 Season

December 30th

There are three rule changes for the 2016 season:

1. New rules restricting shooting and sidewall stringing on the stick (a.k.a. cross).
2. Minor clarifications in face-off rules.
3. A new over-and-back rule to keep the ball in the offensive half of the field after a successful clear.

The Boys Lacrosse Rules Committee also issued five Points of Emphasis for 2016:

1. Contact - Penalties for excessive hits to the head and neck, as well as penalties for hits to defenseless players and blindside hits.
2. Helmet Fitting - Helmets shall meet current NOCSAE standards and be properly fitted for each player
3. Halftime Warm-up - It is recommended that the final three minutes of intermission be used as a team warm-up period.
4. Helmets and Equipment During Pre-Game and Practice Time - Coaches should educate players on the need to be properly equipped at all times.
5. Defending the Crease - It is recommended that coaches not teach nor encourage field players to block the goal when the goalkeeper has vacated the goal crease area.

US Lacrosse has a nice summary and interpretation of these 2016 changes, including the reasoning behind the new Points of Emphasis.  More details on the new rules can be found on the NFHS site as well as a their layman's interpretation of the new rules.