Biomechanics of Lacrosse Faceoffs

In the spring of 2023, I started a biomechanics research project that I have since presented a poster about at the 2023 A.A.P.T. Physics Education Conference in Sacramento and the Zone 9 W.A.P.T. conference in Wisconsin. The project focused on the NCAA's procedural update for faceoffs in lacrosse, which necessitated a change in positioning of the right wrist. As an active player, I observed an increase in injuries following the rule change. To investigate this further, I conducted a survey, revealing that 92 percent of faceoff athletes experienced right wrist injury or soreness. To investigate this, we conducted a high-speed video analysis project using motion tracking software to analyze in-game and practice footage of Marquette Lacrosse Players. We then collaborated with the Big East Conference to have players on 4 different teams color mark their sticks so we could get high quality in game data. After analyzing, I moved to simulating the environment and taking more specific data. Using three in turf Kistler Force Plates, I successfully designed an experiment that shows energy transfer into the right wrist. I then designed an experiment that would relate grip force to angle of wrist extension, following the hypothesis that the injuries were created by players gripping their stick too tight. I then attempted to integrating pressure sensors into lacrosse gloves with to take this data...which almost worked. Although I still accomplished my main goal of validating a technique change that will maintain long term player health without impacting performance.