Training
Becoming a great lacrosse official requires continuous learning, practice, and dedication. Our training program is designed to equip new officials with the fundamental skills needed to succeed while also providing experienced referees with opportunities to refine their mechanics and stay up-to-date with rule changes.
2025 Training Classes
Our structured training program covers all aspects of officiating, from basic mechanics to advanced game management techniques. Whether you’re new to officiating or looking to improve, these sessions will prepare you for the upcoming season.
Weekly Training Breakdown
Each session includes instructional slides, video reviews, and on-field drills to reinforce core officiating principles.
Week 1 – Introduction to Officiating
- The game and rules overview
- Key definitions
- Field setup, goal, ball, and equipment
- Officials’ uniform and responsibilities
- Slides
Week 2 – Game Flow & Fouls
- Faceoff mechanics
- Personal fouls and technical fouls
- Penalty enforcement
- Slides
Week 3 – Positioning & Mechanics
- Crease play
- Goals and scoring scenarios
- Two-man and three-man mechanics
- Settled play and transition coverage
- Slides
Week 4 – Game Management & Special Situations
- Pregame responsibilities
- Counts, over and back, and stalling
- Clock management, timeouts, mercy rule, and overtime
- Slides
For those who miss a session or want to review materials, all slides and recordings will be made available.
Officiating Mechanics (2-Man & 3-Man Crews)
A strong grasp of officiating mechanics is crucial for making accurate calls and maintaining proper positioning on the field. Our training includes hands-on instruction in both two-man and three-man crews.
Two-Man Mechanics
- Used in most youth and high school games
- One Lead and one Trail official covering the play
- Primary responsibilities for each position
- Transitioning between Lead and Trail
- Proper positioning for faceoffs, settled play, and fast breaks
Three-Man Mechanics
- Used in higher-level high school and collegiate games
- One Lead, one Single, and one Trail official
- Dividing the field into coverage zones
- Communication and rotation techniques
- Handling special situations (flag-downs, restarts, and substitutions)
Officials should regularly practice and review mechanics to ensure they are in the best position to make the right calls.
Watch Mechanics Video Training
Continuing Education & Workshops
Officiating is a continuous learning process. Our association offers workshops, clinics, and additional training opportunities to help officials stay sharp throughout the year.
Available Workshops & Clinics
- Preseason Rules Review – Breakdown of NFHS and USA Lacrosse rule updates
- Midseason Mechanics Tune-Up – Reviewing positioning, calls, and game flow adjustments
- Game Management & Communication – Handling difficult coaches, players, and game situations
- Postseason Evaluations & Feedback – End-of-season assessments to improve for the next year
Upcoming Workshops & Training Events
Officials are encouraged to take advantage of these resources to refine their skills and advance in their officiating careers.
Get Involved & Stay Sharp
Officiating at a high level requires continuous improvement and dedication. Whether through our structured training program, mechanics workshops, or advanced officiating clinics, there are plenty of opportunities to develop as a referee.
If you have questions or need additional training resources, reach out to a board member or attend an upcoming session.