Being a passionate lacrosse player, I’ve often been asked about the lacrosse season schedule. In this article, I’ll share my insights on when the lacrosse season starts and ends, covering various levels of play from youth to professional leagues.
The General Lacrosse Season
The lacrosse season primarily dominates the spring months in North America. Typically, the lacrosse season starts in late February or early March and runs through the end of May.
This three-month period encompasses most lacrosse games, though schedules can be affected by weather conditions or other unforeseen circumstances.
However, it’s worth noting that lacrosse isn’t strictly confined to these months. As the fastest game on two feet, lacrosse has evolved into a year-round sport with both indoor and outdoor variations. While spring remains the primary season, you can find lacrosse action throughout the year.
Lacrosse Season Variations by Level
The following is the lacrosse season variation by levels of play.
Youth Lacrosse
Youth lacrosse leagues usually run from early spring to early summer. These leagues focus on skill development, teamwork, and sportsmanship for players aged 8-14. The rules are simplified to accommodate younger players and prioritize safety.
High School Lacrosse
High school lacrosse spans a longer period, with games and tournaments occurring throughout the year. The main competitive season aligns with the general lacrosse season starting in spring, but off-season programs and tournaments extend playing opportunities into fall and winter.
College Lacrosse
The college lacrosse season typically begins in late winter and continues through late spring. This includes both NCAA-level leagues and club games. The season culminates in championship tournaments, making it one of the most exciting times for lacrosse fans.
Here’s the second part of the article:
Professional Lacrosse
Professional lacrosse leagues have their own unique schedules. Let’s break down the lacrosse season starting dates for some major leagues:
Premier Lacrosse League (PLL)
The PLL showcases outdoor lacrosse from June to September. As a tour-based league, teams travel to different locations throughout the season. In 2023, the PLL season ran from June 3 to September 24.
National Lacrosse League (NLL)
The NLL focuses on indoor box lacrosse, with a season that typically runs from December to June. The 2023-24 season began on December 1, with the end date yet to be determined.
Women’s Professional Lacrosse
Women’s professional lacrosse has seen changes in recent years. The United Women’s Lacrosse League (UWLX) usually runs from June to July, while the Athletes Unlimited Pro Lacrosse League operates from July to August.
Key Events During Lacrosse Season
Throughout the lacrosse season, several marquee events capture the attention of fans:
- NCAA Men’s and Women’s Lacrosse Championships
- Premier Lacrosse League Playoffs
- National Lacrosse League Finals
- High School State Championships
- College rivalry games (e.g., Duke vs. North Carolina, Maryland vs. Johns Hopkins)
Factors Affecting the Lacrosse Season
While we eagerly anticipate each lacrosse season, various factors can impact schedules:
Weather conditions: Severe storms, heavy rain, or extreme heat can lead to cancellations or rescheduling.
Global events: Pandemics or natural disasters may disrupt usual schedules.
Field conditions: Poor field conditions due to weather can affect play and potentially lead to postponements.
Tips for Enjoying the Lacrosse Season
As a fan, I’ve found these tips helpful for making the most of the lacrosse season:
1. Stay updated with team schedules and league announcements.
2. Follow your favorite teams and players on social media for behind-the-scenes content.
3. Attend local games to support your community’s lacrosse programs.
4. Watch broadcasts of major tournaments and championships.
5. Participate in lacrosse fan communities online to discuss games and share your passion.
The lacrosse season brings a unique energy and excitement to players, coaches, and fans alike. Whether you’re a longtime enthusiast or new to the sport, there’s always something to look forward to during lacrosse season. From the thrill of championship games to the camaraderie among fans, lacrosse offers a rich and engaging experience throughout the year.
Final Words
Remember, while the primary lacrosse season starts in spring, the sport’s growing popularity means you can find lacrosse action almost any time.
Grab your gear, check the schedules, and get ready to enjoy the fast-paced, exciting world of lacrosse!
