The duration of a contest in lacrosse varies depending on the level of play. Collegiate and professional matches typically consist of four quarters, each lasting fifteen minutes. Interscholastic contests may adhere to shorter quarter lengths, often twelve minutes. Time is stopped for penalties, injuries, and after goals are scored, potentially extending the overall match duration.
Understanding the temporal framework of a lacrosse match is crucial for strategic planning, player conditioning, and effective game management. Historically, the length of play evolved alongside the sport itself, adapting to considerations of player endurance and spectator engagement. Proper knowledge of timing rules provides a better appreciation and understanding of the game for participants and observers alike.