Which rules apply to high school boys and girls lacrosse in 2027?

Both boys and girls high school lacrosse are played under the NFHS rules for 2027. Each rules book includes options that a state association may adopt, so things like the boys shot clock and the girls possession clock vary by state.

Boys 2027: the NFHS rules committee approved 16 changes, including:

• a 70-second shot clock (state option)
• a 20-second rule to advance the ball, replacing the 10-second count
• a clearer definition of a lost helmet
• stuck balls as a withholding technical foul
• required field lines
• site administration responsibility for fields and equipment
• fluorescent green or yellow balls from 2029

Girls 2027:

• a 90-second possession clock (state option)
• tighter pocket and stick standards and inspection
• an updated injured-player rule
• any player may take the free position after a minor foul
• stick switching on the field is a minor foul
• white home jerseys from 2031

Youth lacrosse (14U and younger) uses separate USA Lacrosse youth rules, which build on the NFHS rules.