ABOUT

Sixes

Sixes is an incredibly fast-paced, compact version of lacrosse, combining the most exciting elements of the more traditional disciplines. It is characterized by an accelerated, open style of play with quick transitions and non-stop, high-scoring action.

It was created in 2018 to accelerate global growth, increase accessibility and approachability, create greater competitive balance, and reduce cost and complexity of participation and event staging. It is the next generation version of the game.

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  • 6v6, 12 players per team

  • :30 shot clock

  • 8-minute running-time quarters

  • ~45-minute games 

  • Played outside on 70x36m grass or turf field

  • No specialist positions, just runners and goalies

  • Possession at the start of each quarter

  • One Time-Out per game

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A natural evolution of the sport, sixes is at the intersection of field and box lacrosse, offering an inclusionary opportunity to all existing lacrosse players and an easier entry point for new athletes.  

Sixes eliminates specialty positions that lead to competitive imbalance, features a level of physicality that is equally appealing to both men and women, and has reduced equipment and venue needs.

The discipline gained immediate and significant popularity globally, with leagues and events taking place at all levels. Sixes was featured for both men and women in The World Games 2022, and the discipline is at the center of lacrosse’s Olympic vision. The inaugural World Lacrosse Sixes Championships (men and women) will take place in 2026.

Source: World Lacrosse

Defining Characteristics

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  • Approachable

  • Equitable

  • Efficient

  • Flexible

  • Fast

  • Physical

  • Athletic

  • Thrilling

Rule Modifications

Ontario Lacrosse has implemented the following Sixes rule modifications that are in effect for the Fall 2024 season.

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1. No shot-clock for U9

2. Standard net and ball for all age divisions

  • Alternate Possession. Decided by Coin Toss ONLY IN ELIMINATION GAMES, otherwise Home Team chooses Alternate Possession or Goalie End.

    • OMFLL Stick Rules

    • OMFLL Goalie Equipment

    • 11.8W and 12.2.6W are applicable to all BOYS DIVISIONS

    • Clarification on Player Equipment: Traditional Box and Field equipment like Slash Guards, Shoulder Pads and Kidney Protectors are strictly prohibited. Chest protection is permitted.

    • OWFL Stick Rules

    • OWFL Goalie and Player Equipment

    • U17 Girls have 10 Seconds to Clear

6. Ties always stand until elimination games

  • If a team is up by 10 or more goals, then they must fall back to their own defensive half after they score a goal.

    • They must allow the offense to pass center and have reasonable space to initiate offense

      • Ex. Teams can’t press the second they cross center, they must establish themselves.

      • If a coach has an issue with this, politely remind them this is about growing the game and exposing players to a new version of lacrosse.

    • If they do not fall back and allow for reasonable space crossing half - blow whistle, give offense the ball with a full reset.

      • Continued offences can result in a USC Major foul to Head Coach