What is the rule on checking from behind?

A check from behind is a check made on the back of the body (Rule 8.14.1). When a player intentionally turns their body to create contact with their back, no penalty is assessed.

If, in the official's judgment, the player was reckless or endangered an opponent by checking from behind, the official may assess, at their discretion and based on the degree of the infraction (Rule 8.14.2):

• a minor penalty; or
• a major penalty; or
• a major penalty and a game misconduct; or
• a match penalty.

Source: https://lacrosse.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/WL-26-28-Box-Rule-Book_Feb26.pdf