In a significant move for the sport, eight of the leading lacrosse organizations in the United States have come together to form ELEVATE28. The mission is ambitious yet inspiring: they aim to double U.S participation in lacrosse, reaching 4 million annual players by 2030. 🥍
The consortium includes notable entities such as Athletes Unlimited, Intercollegiate Men’s Lacrosse Coaches Association (IMLCA), Intercollegiate Women’s Lacrosse Coaches Association (IWLCA), and Joe Tsai Sports among others. These bodies are renowned for their influence and thought leadership within the domain of lacrosse.
This initiative represents a shared vision amongst these organizations – that of expanding lacrosse’s footprint across America. They believe that this can be achieved by making concentrated efforts towards increasing participation at all levels.
ELEVATE28 will act as a catalyst for growth in this sector. It aims not only to increase player numbers but also enhance spectator engagement and overall interest in the sport nationwide.
Their strategy involves several key components including grassroots development programs, coaching clinics, promotional events, and strategic partnerships with schools and community sports clubs across various states.
These initiatives are designed to expose more people to lacrosses’ unique blend of speed, skill and team play while fostering an environment conducive to learning and enjoying this dynamic sport.
Moreover, through ELEVATE28 these organizations hope to leverage their collective resources effectively which could lead them closer towards achieving their lofty goal much faster than expected.
It is important however not just about quantity but quality too; hence emphasis will also be placed on enhancing player skills development programs ensuring American athletes continue being world-class competitors on international platforms.
Additionally, it is hoped that increased participation will translate into greater diversity within teams contributing positively towards inclusivity goals set out by many sporting bodies today.
While doubling current player numbers may seem like quite an uphill task given present circumstances surrounding global health crises and economic uncertainties, these organizations are committed to their mission.
They believe that the sport of lacrosse has immense potential for growth in America and they intend on tapping into this by making it more accessible, inclusive and appealing to people from all walks of life.
In conclusion, ELEVATE28 represents a significant stride forward for lacrosse in America. It is an ambitious plan but with the combined efforts of its founding members who possess vast experience and deep passion for this sport; it certainly seems like a goal well within reach.
It will be interesting to observe how this initiative unfolds over the next decade as we potentially witness history being made with American Lacrosse soaring new heights.
