Where is lacrosse most popular in the US? Lacrosse is a growing sport that has gained popularity across the country in recent years, but there are still certain regions where it’s more prevalent than others. In this article, we’ll explore where lacrosse is most popular in the US and what factors contribute to its popularity in those areas.
New York, Maryland, and Massachusetts are the three states where lacrosse is most popular in the US. These states have a long history of lacrosse and are home to some of the best teams in the country. New York, in particular, has the most total number of participants in lacrosse at both the high school and college level. However, lacrosse is no longer limited to just these three states, and it has become a popular team sport for both men and women in all regions of the United States.
Popularity of Lacrosse in the US
Lacrosse is one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States. It has been played in North America for centuries and has its roots in Native American culture. Today, it is a popular sport among both men and women, with a growing number of youth and adult leagues across the country.
According to a survey conducted by US Lacrosse, the national governing body for the sport, there were over 825,000 lacrosse players in the US in 2021. This represents a significant increase from just a decade ago when there were only around 500,000 players. The sport is played at all levels, from youth to professional, and is popular in both urban and suburban areas.
One reason for the sport’s growing popularity is its inclusivity. Lacrosse is a sport that can be played by people of all ages, genders, and skill levels. It is also a sport that values teamwork and sportsmanship, making it a great option for those who want to be part of a community.
Another reason for the sport’s growth is its exposure on television and social media. Major sports networks like ESPN and NBC Sports have started broadcasting lacrosse games, bringing the sport to a wider audience. Additionally, lacrosse players and teams have a strong presence on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, allowing fans to connect with their favorite players and teams in new ways.
Finally, the growth of lacrosse can be attributed to the sport’s unique style of play. Lacrosse is a fast-paced game that requires speed, agility, and skill. It is a sport that rewards creativity and innovation, making it exciting to watch and play.
Overall, lacrosse is a sport that is quickly gaining popularity in the United States. With its inclusive nature, exposure on television and social media, and unique style of play, it is no surprise that more and more people are picking up a lacrosse stick and joining in on the fun.
(You may want to know: What Countries Play Lacrosse: Facts Uncovered 2023)
Regions with High Lacrosse Popularity
If you’re wondering where lacrosse is most popular in the United States, the answer is in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions. These areas have a long history of playing lacrosse, and they continue to produce some of the best players and teams in the country.
Northeast Region
The Northeast region, particularly New York, is considered the birthplace of lacrosse in the United States. It’s no surprise that New York has the most total number of participants in lacrosse at both the high school and college level. The state is home to some of the best lacrosse teams at all levels, including Syracuse and the New York Riptide. The state also has the most competitive high school league.
Other states in the Northeast region with high lacrosse popularity include Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New Jersey. Massachusetts is home to many elite lacrosse programs, such as Boston College and the Boston Cannons. Connecticut has a strong high school lacrosse culture, and New Jersey has produced many elite players and teams over the years.
Mid-Atlantic Region
The Mid-Atlantic region is another area with high lacrosse popularity. Maryland is considered one of the top lacrosse states in the country, with a strong high school and college lacrosse culture. The state is home to some of the most successful college lacrosse programs, including Johns Hopkins and the University of Maryland.
Pennsylvania is another state in the Mid-Atlantic region with a strong lacrosse culture. The state has a large number of high school lacrosse players and has produced many elite players and teams over the years. Other states in the region with high lacrosse popularity include Virginia and New York.
Overall, the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions are where lacrosse is most popular in the United States. These areas have a long history of playing lacrosse and continue to produce some of the best players and teams in the country.
Lacrosse in Colleges and Universities
If you are a student-athlete interested in playing lacrosse at the collegiate level, you have plenty of options to choose from. Lacrosse is a popular sport in many colleges and universities across the United States, with programs ranging from Division I to Division III.
According to NCSA College Recruiting, there are over 440 four-year colleges with men’s college lacrosse programs across four division levels (D1, D2, D3, and NAIA). The following table provides a list of some of the best colleges for men’s lacrosse based on their rankings:
| College/University | Division | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Duke University | Division I | Durham, North Carolina |
| University of Maryland | Division I | College Park, Maryland |
| University of Virginia | Division I | Charlottesville, Virginia |
| Tufts University | Division III | Medford, Massachusetts |
| Salisbury University | Division III | Salisbury, Maryland |
It is important to note that lacrosse is not just limited to men’s programs. Women’s lacrosse is also a popular sport in many colleges and universities across the country, with programs ranging from Division I to Division III.
If you are interested in playing lacrosse at the collegiate level, it is important to research the schools you are interested in and their lacrosse programs. Look at factors such as the level of competition, the coaching staff, the facilities, and the academic programs offered.
In addition to college and university programs, there are also various club and recreational leagues available for both men and women. These leagues provide opportunities for players of all skill levels to continue playing lacrosse beyond the collegiate level.
Related: Lacrosse Organizations in the USA: A Comprehensive Guide
Lacrosse in Professional Leagues
If you are a fan of lacrosse, you are probably aware that there is a professional league for the sport in the United States. The Premier Lacrosse League (PLL) is a relatively new league that was founded in 2018. It is a professional lacrosse league for men that features six teams from across the country. The league has a unique format where players are drafted onto teams and then travel to different cities to play games on the weekends.
In addition to the PLL, there is also a professional women’s lacrosse league called the Women’s Professional Lacrosse League (WPLL). The WPLL was founded in 2018 and features five teams. The league is still relatively new, but it has been gaining popularity in recent years.
Both the PLL and WPLL offer players the opportunity to play lacrosse at a professional level and earn a living doing what they love. The leagues also provide fans with the opportunity to watch high-level lacrosse games and support their favorite teams and players.
If you are interested in watching professional lacrosse, you can find games on various platforms, including television and online streaming services. The PLL has a partnership with NBC Sports, which broadcasts games on television, and the league also offers a streaming service called PLL TV. The WPLL also has a streaming service called WPLL Watch, which allows fans to watch games online.
Overall, the professional lacrosse leagues in the United States provide players and fans with the opportunity to experience the sport at a high level. Whether you are a die-hard fan or a casual observer, there is something for everyone in the world of professional lacrosse.
Youth Lacrosse Popularity
If you’re looking for a sport for your child to play, lacrosse might be a good option. According to a 2020 survey, 31% of parents consider lacrosse to be “family friendly.” Additionally, youth participation in lacrosse has increased by 25% from 2008 to 2018.
Lacrosse is a sport that can be played by children of all ages and sizes. It doesn’t require a specific physical frame to be competitive, making it accessible to many kids. It’s also a fun sport to play and watch, which can help keep kids interested and engaged.
In terms of popularity, lacrosse is most popular in the northeast and mid-Atlantic areas of the United States. However, the game has recently developed into a popular team sport for both boys and girls in all regions of the country.
Community-based lacrosse leagues are also becoming more common, providing more opportunities for kids to play and learn the sport. These leagues often offer coaching and equipment to help kids get started and develop their skills.
Overall, lacrosse is a great sport for kids to try out. It’s accessible, exciting, and growing in popularity across the United States. If you’re looking for a new activity for your child, consider giving lacrosse a try.
Related: When is Lacrosse Season?
Conclusion
In conclusion, lacrosse is a sport that is gaining popularity across the United States. While it is not as popular as football, basketball, or baseball, it has a dedicated following and is growing in popularity each year.
New York, Maryland, and Massachusetts are the three states where lacrosse is most popular, with numerous high schools, colleges, and similar programs for young athletes to play professional games. However, lacrosse is also gaining popularity in other states, including California, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.
Lacrosse is a sport that is enjoyed by both men and women, with over 90,000 boys and 68,000 girls playing high school lacrosse in the United States during the 2009/10 school year. The sport is also played at the collegiate and professional levels, with multiple college tournaments and a professional league.
Overall, lacrosse is a sport that is on the rise in the United States. With its fast-paced action and growing popularity, it is sure to continue to attract new fans and players in the years to come. Where is lacrosse most popular? It seems that the answer to this question is constantly evolving, as the sport continues to gain traction in new regions and communities.
