How is a lost helmet handled in boys lacrosse in 2027?
Rule- Boys lacrosse
- USA
- NFHS
- High school
- Grades 9-12
- Varsity
- Boys and girls lacrosse
- NFHS lacrosse rules
- 2027 rules
- Officials
2027 NFHS boys lacrosse changes:
- Definition (Rule 4-24-8): a player has lost his helmet when it's dislodged far enough that the chinstrap is no longer on the chin.
- Timing: play is suspended immediately (official's timeout) when a helmet comes off, whether the ball is live or dead.
- Opponent contact (Rule 6-5-2y): if an opponent made illegal contact before the helmet came off, the player is not charged with an illegal procedure for losing it.
- Returning (Rule 4-9-2p): a player who leaves the field because of a dislodged helmet must stay off until the next dead ball. Coming back earlier is a substitution violation. If he's on the attacking team and a goal is scored, the goal is disallowed.
Already in place since 2026 (Rule 6-5-2y): losing a helmet is an illegal procedure, unless it's caused by an opponent's direct contact to the head.
2027 boys points of emphasis:
- player safety
- properly worn equipment
- the second flag down
- the NFHS Authenticating Mark on game balls
Updated 21 Oct 2026