A game for both genders

In high school lacrosse, the boys game is played much differently than the girls game.

The most noticeable difference is intentional physical contact — it is not permitted in the girls game.

Also for the girls game, teams utilize 12 players at a time on the field and the game is played on a larger field, measuring 120 yards long and 70 yards wide. The sticks differ in the girls game too, as mesh is not permitted and the pockets must be strung in the traditional way.

“I'd say the girls game is more skilled across the board,” said Waubonsie Valley/Metea Valley coach Michael Julius said. “It's hard to explain, but they have to have softer hands to cradle, which is more difficult with their sticks.”