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Which kinds of body contact are allowed in men’s lacrosse?

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In men’s lacrosse, body contact is a regulated part of the game used to disrupt an opponent's progress or dislodge the ball. The following forms of contact are permitted:

  • Blocking: It is legal to hit the ballcarrier with the shoulder in an attempt to knock them down or throw them off-balance.1
  • Stick Checking: Defensive players are permitted to poke the ballcarrier in the body with their sticks or slap at the opponent's stick to dislodge the ball.1

While these actions are allowed, the sport strictly prohibits dangerous play. Serious fouls that result in penalties include tripping, slashing, and unnecessary roughness, as well as any blocks deemed illegal by the officials.1