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Exploring the Exciting World of Hurlacrosse

Apr 8, 2025

Hurling vs Lacrosse: Introduction to Hurlacrosse

Overview of Hurlacrosse

  • Definition: A compromised rules match between a hurling team and a lacrosse team.
  • Objective: Promote both sports steeped in culture and heritage.
  • Field: Played on a standard-sized soccer field or American football field.
  • Ball Used: Sliotar size 4 (camogie sliotar).
  • Team Composition: Each team has 10 players.
  • Goalkeepers Swap: The hurling goalkeeper plays for the lacrosse team, and the lacrosse goalkeeper plays for the hurling team.

Game Structure

  • Duration: Four quarters of ten minutes each.
  • Breaks: A 5-minute pause between quarters.
  • Starting Play: Ball is thrown on the ground between two players from each team.
    • Players perform specific actions: hurling players do a job role, lacrosse players do a scoop.
  • No Direct Striking: No direct striking of the ball along the ground during the throw-in.

Scoring

  • Points System:
    • 1 point: Score above the crossbar between the uprights.
    • 3 points (Goal): Score below the crossbar between the posts.
  • The X Bar: The area behind the goal line (16.5-meter line).

Gameplay Rules

  • Hurling Players:
    • May carry the ball in hand for two periods of four steps.
    • Cannot lift the ball directly from the ground with hands.
  • Lacrosse Players:
    • Can carry the ball for six steps in the pocket before playing.

Historical Background

  • Origin: Created by David Walken after moving to North America.
  • Development: Collaboration with the University of Toronto lacrosse team.
  • First Match: Hosted in Los Angeles, involving OC Wild Geese and T. Martin Lacrosse.
  • Global Adoption Efforts: Events in various countries and a demonstration match at the 2019 World Games in Croke Park, Dublin.

Goal of Hurlacrosse

  • Promote sportsmanship, teamwork, and skill.
  • Celebrate the unique skill sets of both hurling and lacrosse.
  • Encourage the growth of both sports communities.

Additional Resources

Call to Action

  • Host events in your city to foster the growth of Hurlacrosse.