The rules regarding pushing in lacrosse are nuanced and depend on the situation. You cannot use your free hand to push off an opponent.
Here's a breakdown of the rules regarding pushing in lacrosse:
- Pushing with Possession: If you push an opponent while in possession of the ball, it results in a 30-second penalty.
- Pushing without Possession: If you push an opponent when you don't have possession of the ball, it results in a change of possession.
- Interference: Includes moving picks, preventing cutters free movement, etc., which could be considered a form of illegal pushing or blocking. This is also penalized.
Therefore, while incidental contact is part of lacrosse, deliberately pushing an opponent is against the rules and will result in penalties.
