Massachusetts Ranks As A Top State For Lacrosse In The U.S.
The sport of lacrosse has made significant growth strides in America over the past few years. There has also been a significant evolution to the professional Premier Lacrosse League (PLL), coinciding with the fact that the sport will be in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Massachusetts was recently named a state where lacrosse is most popular.
In anticipation of the upcoming 2024 season, StrawPoll currently has a ranking that details the ten states where lacrosse is most popular in America. What’s unique about StrawPoll’s information is they engage with public opinion, suggesting the public weigh in on the subject at hand. So here, lacrosse enthusiasts offer their voices on the increased love of the game.
Furthermore, this sport is increasingly popular among youth athletes. In fact, the Professional Box Lacrosse Association says, “While many sports need you to be super tall or built like a linebacker, lacrosse is for anyone who can hold a stick.” They also highlight how lacrosse is inexpensive to play. In addition, the availability of options and the fact that games are filled with high-scoring action add to the appeal.
Massachusetts Ranks As The 3rd Most Popular Lacrosse State
Coming in right behind New York and ahead of Pennsylvania, Massachusetts has a lot of great lacrosse opportunities. The state is filled with club programs like the Laxacusetts. On the collegiate level, Massachusetts NCAA Division One teams have consistently ranked high. For the men, Boston University, UMass, and Harvard were all among the top 35 last year. For the women, UMass was #19 in 2023, and Boston College was #2.
Speaking of the BC Eagles, arguably the most impactful player in women’s lacrosse right now hails from this program. Charlotte North is a legendary BC alumni. She is currently a team USA and AU Pro Lacrosse player. Her youth camps in Marlborough this winter have been incredibly popular.
As for the professional programs, the PLL announced back in November that the Boston Cannons will be returning to Boston as our home team. Now, local lax lovers will have an allegiance to support at the highest rank.
To build excitement for the 2024 season, the PLL will hold their Championship Series tournament starting February 14. The Cannons will play opening night vs. the California Redwoods.
4 Reasons Why The PLL Will Continue To Grow Professional Lacrosse
The Player Access
Let’s be clear on something, these are the best lacrosse players in the country. Most of them were drafted into this professional league straight out of major division one college programs. After every game, kids swarm down the ailes and into the front rows of the stadium. The players then make their way over and sign as many autographs as possible. Given this past weekend was the playoffs, many players on the losing team also gave away their gear. Jerseys and gloves were thrown into the stands. Some players went as far as signing their sticks or stick heads, and then giving it to one lucky fan. These are memorable moments (and memorabilia items) every young sports fan cherishes forever.
The Gear
There are eight different teams in the PLL. Each of them is uniquely branded and named. In addition, they each have engaging color schemes and logos that get frequent updates. From the retro jersey games, to the alternate uniforms, the Premier Lacrosse League has done an excellent job keeping their merch interesting – and collectible. You can customize the jersey you buy or select your favorite player to support. Of the eight teams, none of their nicknames are seen in any other professional sport. You can order it via their website or at pick it up at the merch booths at games.
