USA Lacrosse Essay

Lacrosse has been part of my life since before I was even born. My mother, uncle, and cousins played, so it was only natural that I picked up a stick as well. I started playing at a young age and am grateful to have the opportunity to continue playing now at the collegiate level. However, for all the time that I have spent competing in the sport, there is another, more unique side to the game that I am also quite experienced in.

I began refereeing for youth players in early high school and have continued to this day. Officials are a necessary part of the game, and without them, competitions would most likely end in injury or screaming matches. Referees often get a bad reputation from fans, players, and coaches alike, but I believe that they

All of which are methods used by referees and rule makers. The governing body of the sport is known as USA Lacrosse, and every year, seasoned officials, collegiate coaches, and USL staff come together to analyze trends from the past season and see if they can improve the game.

Based on injury, scoring, and fouling statistics and personal in-game experience from refs, coaches, and players, rules are maintained and updated for all ages. With these statistics contributing as current research, officials acting as the clinicians, and players and coaches contributing their “patient” perspective, evidence-based practice is a necessity to the sport. Referees, including myself, need to embrace EBP to formulate and execute new rules to keep players safe and able to enjoy their sport.

Compassionate care, professionalism, and leading by example are also key traits for members of this program. One of my favorite parts of refereeing is watching young girls get involved in a sport; I love to see the celebrations after goals, the cheers from the sideline, and the competitive edge honed in each player. It makes me happy to see that the game is growing along with young girls’ confidence and strength. With every call that I make, I take care to explain the rule, and gladly welcome questions at halftime and after the game, all so that players can continue to evolve in the sport they