What stick checks are allowed at 12U?

Under the 2026 boys youth rules, a stick check at 12U must be an attempt to dislodge the ball, aimed at the opponent's stick or the gloved hands holding it. It's only allowed when the opponent has the ball or is within 3 yards of a loose ball (or a ball in flight).

At 10U and 12U, stick checking is limited to:

• Lifting the bottom hand or the head of the stick, whichever is below the chest
• Poking the bottom hand or the head of the stick, whichever is below the chest
• A downward check that starts below both players' shoulders

One-handed checks are a penalty at 10U and below. At 12U they're permitted.

Personal fouls:

• Slashing: swinging the stick at an opponent's stick or body with deliberate viciousness or reckless abandon, whether or not it makes contact, or striking the opponent's body when trying to dislodge the ball
• Cross-checking: hitting an opponent with the part of the handle between your hands