Face-off

A lacrosse restart in which opposing players contest possession of the ball from a set position. It begins play after goals and at designated periods or stoppages.

Face-off technique: A lacrosse player's body and stick positioning and movements for contesting the ball at a face-off. Stance, grip, and timing shape the first move toward possession.
Opening face-off (lacrosse): The face-off that starts a lacrosse game or a period. It is the first contest for possession after play is set to begin.
Face-off specialist: A lacrosse player whose primary role is to contest face-offs and secure possession. Teams often use a specialist for the technical demands of the matchup.
Draw (lacrosse): A women's lacrosse restart in which players use their sticks to release a ball held between them. The draw contests possession differently and is governed by different rules.
Clamp (lacrosse): A face-off move that presses the stick head over the ball to trap it against the ground. The clamp is a common way to win direct control of the ball.
Face-off after a goal (lacrosse): The face-off used to restart play after a goal in lacrosse. Each goal is followed by a new contest for possession at midfield.
Greg Gurenlian: An American lacrosse face-off specialist who played professionally and for the United States national team. His high-level career helped bring attention to face-off specialization.
Jump ball: A basketball restart in which an official tosses the ball between opposing players who jump to gain possession. It is another direct contest for possession, but uses a different setup and sport-specific rules.
Face-off violation: A rule infraction during a lacrosse face-off that can result in possession or a penalty. Violations govern legal positioning and actions before the ball is released.
Fast break (lacrosse): A rapid lacrosse attack in which a team has a temporary numerical advantage over the defense. A clean win can create an immediate chance to attack before defenses reset.

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