Lacrosse Positions, Explained by Game Format

Positions describe responsibilities, not fixed personality types. A quieter player can learn midfield, and an energetic player can learn defense. Start with the format and the team’s actual assignments.

The main responsibilities

Attack generally supports scoring and creating chances near the opposing goal. Midfield often connects play between areas of the field. Defense works to limit scoring opportunities and support teammates. The goalkeeper defends the goal and helps organize play.

Those descriptions are an introduction. Player counts, movement restrictions and the way coaches arrange roles vary between boys’ field, girls’ field, box, sixes and youth formats. Use the applicable official field diagrams and rules rather than assuming one lineup applies everywhere.

Ask what this team expects

Ask a coach where the player should start, what their first responsibility is when possession changes and whom they should communicate with. A simple assignment is easier to learn than several new tactical terms at once.

Choosing or trying a role

Consider what the player enjoys, what they want to learn and which opportunities the team provides. Trying goalkeeper requires appropriate equipment and qualified instruction. Do not assume that playing midfield first is required for every beginner.

A useful sideline observation

Watch one role for a few possessions and note how that player helps without the ball. Teams do not universally switch ends after every goal; use the format’s rules for direction changes and restarts.

Read our position-exploration worksheet for questions to bring to practice. Rotating responsibly can help a player understand teammates’ work as well as their own.