The NCAA has officially updated its communication requirements for women’s lacrosse officials — and programs that prepare early will avoid unnecessary stress as the mandate approaches.
Here’s what’s changing and how your program can stay ahead.
What’s Changing?
The NCAA has updated its expectations for officials’ communication systems in women’s lacrosse.
Under Game Personnel – Rule 3-7, the NCAA Rules Committee has established the following:
- 2026 Season: The Rules Committee strongly encourages the use of official-to-official communication headsets during games.
- 2027 Season: All officials will be required to utilize headsets during games to facilitate improved communication and game management.
Official Rationale
The NCAA’s stated rationale for this change is clear:
This proposed change will enhance communication and game management, ultimately leading to more consistent and efficient administration of games. Delaying implementation will provide officials with additional time to manage the associated financial impact.
This phased approach allows conferences, institutions, and officiating crews time to prepare operationally and financially before the requirement becomes mandatory.
While 2027 may seem far away, preparation takes time — budgeting, vendor selection, and coordination with officiating crews all require planning. Programs that act early will ensure compliance and avoid the last-minute rush before the mandate takes effect.
Why Programs Choose VOKKERO
VOKKERO is the #1 brand of officiating communication systems worldwide and is trusted across elite competition, including:
- SEC Football
- ACC Football
- Big Ten Soccer
- Field Hockey
- Wrestling
- Major League Soccer
Many programs from the Big Ten, Big East, and other conferences are already using VOKKERO audio solutions for their game officials. Additionally, numerous Division II and Division III conferences provide VOKKERO systems for their soccer officials.
Programs choose VOKKERO because it delivers proven performance in high-pressure officiating environments.
What VOKKERO Provides
- Crystal-clear, hands-free, encrypted communication
- Instant plug-and-play setup
- Lightweight headsets with no base station required
- Reliability tested in professional and collegiate competition
Our VARSITY II System is built specifically for officiating crews and meets the new NCAA expectations — without adding complexity for your athletic department staff.
About VOKKERO
VOKKERO has set the standard for officiating communication systems used by collegiate and professional sports organizations globally. Our systems are engineered for reliability, clarity, and ease of use to support the most demanding competitive environments.
Whether you’re evaluating solutions for 2026 or planning implementation for 2027 compliance, our team can walk you through the best path forward.
NCAA Rule References & Resources
We’ve gathered several official resources to support your program’s planning:
- NCAA Women’s Lacrosse Rules Changes 2026–2027 – Official rule change PDF outlining the encouragement and mandate for officials to use headsets, effective with 2027 and strongly encouraged in 2026.
- NCAA Playing Rules – Central NCAA resource listing all sports’ playing rules, including women’s lacrosse.
- NCAA Women's Lacrosse Rules – Comprehensive rules and updates specific to women’s lacrosse.
With the 2027 mandate approaching, now is the time to evaluate your communication solution and ensure your program is fully prepared.
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