How long can my son's stick be, and what are the pocket rules?
Rule- USA
- USA Lacrosse
- Boys youth lacrosse
- 12U
- Ages 11-12
- USA Lacrosse Boys Youth Rules
- 2026 rules
- Parents
Stick (crosse) lengths for 12U in the 2026 boys youth rules:
| Stick | Length |
|---|---|
| Short stick (field player) | 40-42 in. |
| Long pole | 52-72 in. |
| Goalkeeper | 40-72 in. |
Long poles are limited to 3 on the field in 7v7 and 4 in 10v10, not counting the goalkeeper's. Having too many is a technical foul.
Head and pocket (Appendix B):
- The head must be at least 6 in. wide between the sidewalls at the widest point.
- The pocket must be fully attached to the head and sidewalls, with no gap big enough for a ball to pass through or get wedged.
- Pocket depth: with a ball in the pocket, the top of the ball must not sit below the bottom edge of the sidewall. This doesn't apply to goalkeepers.
- The handle can be no more than 3.5 in. around.
- No sharp edges or protrusions.
An illegal crosse is a personal foul. This rule is enforced at 12U and 14U only.
Added 21 Oct 2026