England Lacrosse welcome World Lacrosse introduction of new athlete safety and equipment standards
England Lacrosse welcomes the announcement from World Lacrosse regarding the introduction of enhanced athlete safety and equipment standards across the international game.
The measures, which are being phased into World Lacrosse owned and sanctioned competitions between 2027 and 2029, are designed to strengthen player welfare through evidence-based protective equipment standards and reflect the continued evolution of the sport internationally.
As the national governing body for lacrosse in England, athlete safety remains our highest priority. We support the principle of consistent, science-led safety standards and recognise the importance of helping players, clubs, schools, universities, officials, and leagues understand what these developments mean for the domestic game.
The World Lacrosse announcement covers a range of equipment areas across different disciplines of lacrosse, including:
protective eyewear in women’s field and women’s sixes
optional soft-shell headgear in the women’s game
certified helmets where helmets are already required
certified chest and shoulder protection in certain formats
England Lacrosse will now work with the domestic game, Regional Associations, competition organisers, and key stakeholders to:
review the standards in the context of the English game
provide clear guidance and interpretation
support a practical and phased approach to implementation
ensure participants have time and information to make informed decisions
At this stage, the World Lacrosse requirements apply to World Lacrosse owned and sanctioned events. England Lacrosse will provide further updates regarding domestic adoption, timelines and competition guidance in due course.
We recognise that players, parents, coaches and clubs will have questions regarding equipment, compliance, cost and timelines. In due course we will publish:
detailed FAQs
format-specific guidance
implementation information
support resources for clubs and competitions
Our focus throughout will remain on supporting safe, accessible, and enjoyable participation across all formats of lacrosse in England.
Read the full World Lacrosse announcement HERE