Lacrosse guide
Lacrosse faceoff and draw explained
A faceoff starts play in boys' and men's lacrosse with the ball on the ground between two sticks, and a draw starts play in girls' and women's lacrosse with the ball held between two stick heads and pulled into the air. This guide explains both.
The short answer
A faceoff (boys' and men's lacrosse) and a draw (girls' and women's lacrosse) are the two ways play starts and, in many cases, restarts. Both are a small contest for the ball between two players at the center of the field. They look different and are won with different skills, so it helps to know which one your child's team uses.
The boys' faceoff
In standard boys' rules, two players crouch at the center of the field, each with the stick head flat on the ground on either side of the ball. When the official blows the whistle, each player tries to win the ball by pinning it, pulling it back or pushing it forward. The other players, including two wings for each team who stand along the sidelines, wait behind their restraining lines until someone gains possession or the ball crosses a line, then rush into play.
Some teams use a specialist for this job, often called a faceoff specialist or "FOGO" (short for faceoff, get off), who takes the faceoff and then leaves the field if the team wins. Common technique names include the clamp (trapping the ball under the head of the stick), the rake (pulling the ball back toward oneself) and the jam (driving the ball forward). Youth programs often teach only the basics.
The girls' draw
In standard girls' rules, two players stand at the center, each holding the stick horizontally, with the ball resting between the heads of both sticks at about waist height. When the whistle blows, both players pull their sticks up and away so that the ball lifts into the air. The ball is then caught by one of the players around the center, who stand outside the draw circle and move in only after the ball is released. The most common name for the player taking the draw is the center.
The draw rewards timing, coordination and quick reactions. Because the ball goes up in the air, teammates positioned around the circle are key to winning possession, and good teams practice these set-ups together.
Side-by-side comparison
| Question | Faceoff (boys' / men's) | Draw (girls' / women's) |
|---|---|---|
| Where is the ball? | On the ground between two sticks | Held in the air between two stick heads |
| How is it won? | Clamp, rake, jam or a quick pass to a wing | Controlled pull-up and a catch by a teammate or the center |
| Who is involved? | Two faceoff players plus wings along the sidelines | Two centers plus teammates around the circle |
| When is it used? | Start of periods and often after goals (standard rules) | Start of halves and often after goals (standard rules) |
Youth leagues often modify how and when these restarts are used, so check your league's rules. Our boys vs girls lacrosse differences guide shows how they fit into the bigger picture.
One more thing to know: the center of the field is a busy place, and officials pay close attention to the start of play because it sets the tone. If a restart seems to take a long time, that is usually the officials making sure both players and the surrounding players are set correctly. Younger divisions often relax the details so that games keep moving, and some skip faceoffs or draws altogether in favor of simply giving a team the ball.
Over time you will recognize patterns, such as which team has a skilled faceoff player or a strong draw circle. Winning the first possession helps a team get an early shot, but it never decides a game on its own, and many goals come from ground balls, turnovers and good defense.
A note about sticks at the start
During a faceoff or draw, sticks are close to players' faces and hands, so the rules about technique matter. Officials may stop the restart if a stick comes up too high or too close. This is part of why both versions teach players to keep the stick controlled, and it is a good reminder for young players to listen to their coach about what is allowed.
Common whistles at the start of play
- Early movement. Moving before the whistle is a violation in both versions.
- Illegal grip or position. A stick or hand placed incorrectly can lead to a restart.
- Pushing in from the wings. Players who enter the area before they are allowed to may be penalized.
- Illegal touches. In the draw, touching the ball with the hand or interfering before it is released is a foul.
The exact calls depend on the level and the officials. For other common whistles, see lacrosse fouls and penalties explained.
How kids can practice
A faceoff or a draw is a skill that is easiest to learn with a partner and a coach nearby. At home, a child can work on the movements that help: balance in a crouch, quick hands, and for draws, wrist control and timing. Beyond that, practicing with a teammate during team sessions is the best way to learn. Always keep it relaxed and keep the equipment the coach recommends in use, because both versions involve sticks near other players' faces and hands.
- Start by learning the position and posture, without the whistle.
- Add a slow-motion version with a partner, focusing on control.
- Practice with the team's wings or circle players to learn the full routine.
- Only then try game-speed repetitions, if the coach says it is appropriate for your child's level.
What parents can watch for
The first few seconds after the whistle are exciting, and it is tempting to cheer loudly. Try to hold the noise until the ball is in play so players can hear their teammates, and be understanding when a child struggles. Many players do not take faceoffs or draws at all, and not winning one is rarely a big deal. If your child is interested, ask the coach about the role and what it requires, and follow the tips from our sideline etiquette guide to keep game days positive.
Questions to ask your coach
- Does our league use faceoffs or draws after every goal, or only at the start of periods?
- Are there special rules for wings or circle players at this age?
- Who takes our faceoffs or draws, and how do players earn a turn?
- Is it safe for my child to try this position, given their gear and skill level?
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Sources and further reading
- Boys' Game Overview US Lacrosse
- Girls' Game Overview US Lacrosse
- Lacrosse Encyclopaedia Britannica
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Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a faceoff and a draw in lacrosse?
A faceoff is used in boys' lacrosse and starts with the ball on the ground between two sticks. A draw is used in girls' lacrosse and starts with the ball held between two stick heads and lifted into the air.
What is a FOGO in lacrosse?
It stands for faceoff, get off, and describes a player who takes faceoffs and then leaves the field if their team wins the ball.
Who takes the draw in girls' lacrosse?
The center takes the draw in standard rules, while teammates stand around the circle to try to catch the ball.
Do youth lacrosse games use faceoffs or draws after every goal?
It varies by league and age group, so ask your coach or league.
Can beginners learn to take faceoffs or draws?
Yes, with a coach and a partner. Start with posture and slow practice before adding speed.