1. A Player Cannot Interfere with an Opponent Going After the Ball
A player may not interfere in any manner with an opponent in an attempt to keep him from a loose ball, according to rules in most lacrosse leagues and organizations. The exception is when both players are within 9 feet of such loose ball. A player may not, by the use of his body or his crosse, interfere with a player who is in pursuit of an opponent who has possession of the ball. A player may not guard an opponent so closely as to prevent the opponent's free movement when the opponent is not in possession of the ball.
2. Checking an Opponent's Stick and Body Contact is Allowed
When two players are chasing a loose ball, checking the opponent's stick and body contact is allowed within 3 yards of the ball. A teammate is allowed to ride the opposing player using equal pressure in pursuit of the ball. The defending player may stop an attacking non-ball carrier who is not in contention for a loose ball.
3. Illegal Bodychecking
A player is not allowed to bodycheck an opponent after he has thrown the ball to a teammate or taken a shot at the goal. It is illegal to bodycheck an opponent from the rear, above the shoulders or below the waist. A defensive player cannot take a stationary position in order to initiate contact or impair contact. A check from behind is a check made on the back part of the body. When a player intentionally turns his body to create contact with his back, there is no penalty. The officials may at their discretion, review any penalty assessed under this rule. Any player who cross-checks, pushes or charges from behind an opponent into the boards will face a major penalty. This penalty usually applies anywhere on the floor or field. Any player who incurs a total of two-game misconducts for checking from behind in either is generally suspended automatically for the next game of his team in some organized leagues.
4. The Avoidable Bodychecking of an Opponent
Avoidable bodychecking of an opponent, including the goalie, after he has thrown the ball to a teammate or taken a shot at the goal is not allowed. Minor or major penalties may be imposed for the offense.
5. Players and Goalies Must Give Fast Breaking Opponents One Step
A goalie or player must give a fast breaking opponent the opportunity to take one step to gain composure after receiving the ball. But the player or goalie must also, in employing his body check, primarily go after the stick of the fast breaking opponent. Body contact is allowable if incidental, but mere body to body is not allowable. A major penalty or an additional game misconduct is awarded if any blind side check is administered in this situation.
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