How To Become A Lacrosse Official
Lacrosse is one of the fastest-growing team sports in the United States. The need for officials for the girls games has never been higher, and the sport offers opportunities to officiate throughout the year.
Things To Consider
Physical Demands
Lacrosse is generally officiated by two officials on a football or soccer size field. Officials are moving constantly, and there are limited opportunities to rest while play is going on. Officials typically run from 3-5 miles during a competitive lacrosse game and games are outdoors in all types of different weather.
Mental Demands
Lacrosse officials work with different partners throughout the season. During each game, the official will shift their responsibilities, so knowledge of the entire game and each position is critical. Lacrosse officials are very close to the players and coaches and must be able to focus and ignore distractions. Communication with your partners, coaches and players is critical to being able to officiate this game successfully.
Training
Lacrosse officials are required to attend training and development every year. You will have to learn the positioning and the rules for the game you are officiating. You must also finally pass an on-field evaluation prior to being certified.
Equipment
At minimum an official must have:
- A short sleeved striped official shirt
- Black shorts, black socks and belt
- A black piped hat or black hat
- A whistle
- 1 or 2 penalty flags
Estimated Cost: $100-$200 depending level. Once you join a local organization, there may be discounts or veteran officials to help you get geared up at a reduced cost.
Game Fees
Game fees vary widely depending on where you are in the country and what level you are officiating. Youth game fees range from $45 – $60 and $55 – $95 for high school games. To maximize your income, you can work summer and fall tournaments and multiple games in a day.
Certification
As the sport of lacrosse grows and evolves, so do the rules and procedures at all of levels of the game. The purpose of the US Lacrosse Officials Certification Program is to develop knowledgeable and prepared lacrosse officials at every level of the game.
In order to achieve this, an official must:
- Undergo continued standardized training in order to stay current in the game
- Always consider the level of play when officiating
- Promote the safety of the participants
- Promote fair play and sportsmanship
- Work to improve their skill level as an official by moving up to higher levels of certification.
If interested in becoming and official please reach out to either Jim Formato or Ralph Calucci