Last updated: 3 October 2026
Reviewed by Jordan Morley, FA Level 2 Football Coach
The faceoff is how possession is contested in lacrosse: two players crouch over the ball at the centre, and on the whistle clamp and battle to win it. It restarts play at the start of each quarter and after every goal, making it one of the most possession-defining moments in the sport. Specialist faceoff players (FOGOs — 'Faceoff, Get Off') train specifically for this skill, and faceoff win percentage is a crucial team statistic: a team winning the majority of faceoffs controls possession and tempo. The technique combines hand speed, leverage and counters.
- Contest for possession at restarts
- After every goal and each quarter start
- Won by specialist FOGO players
- Faceoff win % is a key team statistic
In practice
Lacrosse faceoffs demand a highly specialized skill set — explosive hand and wrist speed to clamp or rake the ball the instant the official's whistle sounds — which is why many high-level teams carry a dedicated FOGO (face-off, get off) specialist whose primary job is winning possession at the faceoff X before substituting off for a position player.
FAQ
How does a lacrosse faceoff work?
Two players crouch over the ball at midfield with their stick heads close together; on the official's whistle, each tries to gain control of the ball using quick hand and wrist technique before the ball is live for all other players.
Why do some teams use a faceoff specialist?
Faceoff technique is a distinct, highly trainable skill separate from general offensive or defensive play, so many teams find more value from a dedicated specialist who wins the ball then substitutes off immediately.