Eye protection is being introduced in women’s and mixed lacrosse in Scotland from 1 January 2027, in two phases that bring every level of the game on board by 1 September 2027.

The change protects players from serious eye injury and aligns Scottish lacrosse with World Lacrosse’s athlete safety standards. This page explains who is affected, when, and what you need to do.

Implementation timeline

Eye protection becomes compulsory in two phases, starting with our performance teams.

Approved eye protection and ball types

The requirement is linked to the ball being used, so introductory sessions do not need to carry the cost of eyewear.

• Non-deformable balls: eye protection is required whenever a regulation match ball or a solid rubber training ball is used, in matches and in training.
• Deformable balls: eye protection is not required when a ball designed to compress on impact is used, such as foam, sponge or soft hollow balls. This lets schools, clubs and providers run taster and PE sessions without buying eyewear.
• Standard: eyewear should be lacrosse-specific and certified to ASTM F3077.
• Not accepted: everyday prescription glasses, sunglasses, general sports glasses and industrial safety glasses should not be assumed to comply.
• Players who wear glasses: use lacrosse goggles designed to fit over or integrate with prescription glasses.
• Goalkeepers and helmets: where the playing rules already require a helmet with a face mask, that requirement is unchanged.

Why we are introducing eye protection

World Lacrosse has adopted athlete safety standards that make protective eyewear mandatory for women’s field and women’s sixes athletes at its owned and sanctioned events, and it strongly encourages members to adopt the same standards for domestic play. Its page cites studies suggesting eyewear can cut the likelihood of catastrophic eye injury by up to 84 percent when impact occurs.

Lacrosse Scotland is following that lead for women’s and mixed lacrosse. Read the announcement on the World Lacrosse website.

Frequently asked questions

Does this apply to mixed lacrosse as well as women’s lacrosse?

Yes. Both are covered, on the dates in the timeline above.

Do beginners and school taster sessions need eye protection?

Not when a deformable ball is used. Eye protection is required once a non-deformable ball is introduced.

Can I wear my everyday glasses instead?

No. Everyday glasses and sunglasses should not be assumed to comply. Use lacrosse goggles designed to fit over or integrate with prescription glasses.

I am a Scottish player taking part in England. Which rules apply?

England Lacrosse’s rules apply to lacrosse played in England and in its sanctioned competitions. Its protective eyewear requirement starts on 1 September 2026, earlier than the Scottish dates. Check its guidance before you travel.

Where can I buy approved eye protection?

Recommended suppliers are Northern Soul and Pulse Lacrosse. Check that any goggles you buy are certified to the approved standard.

Is financial support available for clubs or players?

Yes, financial support is available. Please contact vice.chair@nulllacrossescotland.com.

Further information

For questions about how the requirement applies to your team, club or school, contact Lacrosse Scotland at vice.chair@nulllacrossescotland.com.

Sources:

• World Lacrosse adopts landmark athlete safety and equipment standards
• England Lacrosse: Protective Eyewear (for Scottish players competing in England)