2023 GIRLS YOUTH RULE CHANGE SUMMARY

1-7 ARE ALSO HIGH SCHOOL CHANGES AND 8-9 ARE YOUTH ONLY CHANGES

1. The requirement to apply pressure to the ball in the pocket during crosse inspection has been eliminated.

   Rationale: Ensures the method of checking pocket depth is done in a consistent manner.

2. Players below the restraining lines may not step on or over the restraining lines after the official’s hand is in contact with the sticks at the draw until the restraining line is released regardless of number of players between the restraining lines.
   Rationale: Helps game management during the draw.

3. A player that is fouled outside the critical scoring area may now take the free position and self- start within 4-meters of the spot of the foul.
   Rationale: Improves pace of the game by allowing self-starts to occur within 4 meters of the spot of the foul rather than within playing distance.

4. A defensive player awarded a free position in their defensive end may now self-start when there is a foul by an attack player within the critical scoring area unless the game clock is stopped. Rationale: Improves pace of the game.

5. Alternate possession for offsetting fouls is now eliminated when one of the fouls requires the issuance of a card.
   Rationale: Creates a more appropriate penalty assessment by awarding possession to the team that was not issued a card.

6. A goalkeeper may now carry the ball into the goal circle after it has been cleared and played. Rationale: Allows another option for the goalkeeper to return to the goal circle with the ball.

7. The administration of a free position for a three-second violation is now on the 12-meter fan when the ball is outside the critical scoring area and above the goal line extended. Rationale: Creates a more appropriate penalty assessment for the infraction.

8. Youth ONLY Change: Goal Circle Violations: A player’s crosse may now follow through into the goal circle on a shot.
   Rationale: Observations have shown this is not a safety risk; the rule is often misunderstood and difficult to observe by youth game officials; the change aligns with high school rules and provides consistency at both levels of play.

9. Youth ONLY Change: Minimum Pass Rule for 8U : The minimum pass rule has been eliminated at this age level.
   Rationale: It will better serve the youth game by eliminating the requirement and allowing leagues to establish minimum passing rules.