Difference Between Lacrosse And Field Hockey
Many people often confuse lacrosse with field hockey, and vice versa. While the two games have some similarities, they are quite different in many aspects. Lacrosse and field hockey are both popular sports played in the United States, with a growing fan base. This article takes a comprehensive look at the difference between lacrosse and field hockey.
Overview of Lacrosse
Lacrosse is a field sport that originated in North America, specifically among the Indigenous people. Today, it is played internationally and has become one of the fastest-growing sports globally. It is played with a small, solid rubber ball and a long-handled stick called a crosse, which has a netted pocket at the end. The objective of the game is to score by shooting the ball into the opponent's goal.
Overview of Field Hockey
Field hockey is also a field sport that originated in Western Europe in the mid-1800s, and it is also played internationally. It is played with a hard ball and a stick with a flat side, which is used to hit the ball. The objective of the game is to score by hitting the ball into the opponent's goal.
Equipment
The equipment used in both lacrosse and field hockey is quite different. In lacrosse, players use a crosse or stick, which has a netted pocket, to catch, carry, pass, and shoot the ball. The crosse is made of lightweight materials like aluminum or graphite, and the pocket is made of synthetic mesh. Other protective gear includes helmets, shoulder pads, elbow pads, gloves, and mouth guards.
On the other hand, field hockey players use a stick made of wood or composite materials with a flat side to hit the ball. Protective gear includes a mouthguard, shin guards, gloves, and a helmet for goalkeepers.
Game Play
Lacrosse and field hockey have different rules and gameplay. In lacrosse, each team has ten players, including a goalkeeper. Players use the crosse to pass, catch, and shoot the ball. The game involves a lot of running, dodging, and stick-checking, which is hitting the opponent's stick with your stick to dislodge the ball. The game is divided into four quarters, with each quarter lasting for 15 minutes.
On the other hand, field hockey has two teams of eleven players each, including a goalkeeper. Players use the stick to hit the ball and try to score. The game involves a lot of passing, dribbling, and tackling, where players try to take the ball away from the opponent. The game is divided into two halves, each lasting for 35 minutes.
Court and Field
The court or field of play for lacrosse and field hockey is different. In lacrosse, the playing area is called a field and measures 110 yards long and 60 yards wide. The field is divided into halves by the midfield line, and there are two goals on each end of the field, and the crease is a circular area around the goal.
On the other hand, field hockey is played on a rectangular field that measures 100 yards long and 60 yards wide. There are two goals on each end of the field and a shooting circle within which goals can be scored. The circle is 16 yards from each goalpost.
Conclusion
While lacrosse and field hockey may be similar in some aspects, such as being field sports, they are quite distinct from each other in terms of equipment, game play, and rules. Both sports require different skill sets and training, and each has its own unique challenges. Whether you are a fan of lacrosse or field hockey, watching these sports is a thrilling experience that will keep you at the edge of your seat.
