See what key figures in the lacrosse community have to say on lacrosse’s inclusion in the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. The full press release on lacrosse’s return to the Olympics can be found here.
Today is a remarkable moment in the history of both lacrosse and the Olympic Games. The inclusion of lacrosse in the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles is a testament to our sport’s enduring legacy, worldwide popularity and unique ability to bring people together. It also signifies the culmination of an extraordinary journey to return North America’s first game to the Olympics, a journey made possible by the unwavering passion of our lacrosse community.
This decision reaffirms the Olympic values of unity, diversity and athletic excellence. We eagerly anticipate sharing the beauty of lacrosse with the world and take immense pride in participating in an Olympic Games that champions inclusion and diversity. Together, we will make history on the grandest stage in sports and inspire future generations with the power of lacrosse.
Jim Scherr, World Lacrosse CEO
There is no greater designation than to be recognized as an Olympic sport. The global lacrosse family has been passionately working toward reaching this pinnacle for more than a decade. This seminal achievement would not have been possible without the effort of many visionary and dedicated individuals who collectively recognized that Olympic inclusion is the most significant catalyst for the continued growth of a sport. I offer our sincere gratitude to LA28 and the IOC for allowing us to realize our vision; now is our time to shine and show the world how lacrosse contributes to a better tomorrow.
Sue Redfern, World Lacrosse President
This momentous occasion is a testament to the unwavering dedication and persistence of the global lacrosse community. Together, we’ve shown LA28 and the IOC that lacrosse is an electrifying sport with a rich heritage, diverse participation and immense global appeal. The inclusion of lacrosse in the Olympic Games marks a pivotal moment for the sport’s growth, and we’re excited to showcase thrilling competition while uniting fans from all corners of the world on the grandest sporting stage.
Joe Tsai, Alibaba Group Chairman/Lacrosse supporter in North America and internationally
We are thrilled that the International Olympic Committee has voted to include lacrosse in the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. In some ways, it feels like we’ve reached the finish line with so many people working towards this goal for so many years. In reality, this is the beginning of a bright new future. The Olympics gives our sport the platform and visibility to achieve unprecedented growth. We can’t wait to get started on the next chapter in the sport’s history.
Marc Riccio, USA Lacrosse CEO
I am thrilled that our collective efforts have cumulated in this monumental achievement. It is an astounding success, and I couldn’t be more excited about the milestone we have reached together. As athletes, this is the pinnacle of our sport, and we would like to thank World Lacrosse and the entire lacrosse community around the world for their dedication, passion and unwavering commitment in this journey for Olympic inclusion. It is a true celebration of the rich history of lacrosse, and a testament to the unity of our sport.
Jane Lee, Korea Women’s National Team/World Lacrosse Athletes’ Commission Chair & Board Member
As an athlete, this is the dream. And today, the next generation lacrosse player picking up a stick for the first time can dream big. There have never been more opportunities for players at the youth, high school, college and professional levels. Our path of ascendency in just five years at the PLL proves the incredible potential and possibilities of the sport – where today’s news further cements lacrosse as the next great global game. A special thank you to LA28 and the IOC for believing in our vision. To World Lacrosse and every lacrosse organization around the world that continues to invest in the growth of the game: thank you. We’re back.
Paul Rabil, Premier Lacrosse League Co-Founder/2x World Champion (USA)
The legacy popularity and growth of lacrosse in North America is poised for mass acceleration, inclusive of traditional epicenters and aspiring hotbeds alike. There is a robust appetite for all disciplines of the game and this Olympic opportunity will fortify a collective rise the tide mentality. Sixes is box lacrosse’s close cousin, so the National Lacrosse League looks forward to doing its part in welcoming, surprising and energizing new and existing fans to our uniquely entertaining sport and game experience. On behalf of the NLL, we congratulate the LA28 Organizing Committee and World Lacrosse and fervently join the global lacrosse community in celebrating this monumental moment.
Brett Frood, National Lacrosse League Commissioner
The Olympic Games are the pinnacle of athletic competition, and a dream for every athlete. Having lacrosse be part of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games is a monumental moment for our sport and the millions of athletes who play across the United States. We are also thrilled that our decorated professionals who have dominated in global competition for years will finally be able to showcase their talents on sport’s biggest stage.
Abi Jackson, Athletes Unlimited Director of Lacrosse
For us athletes, the IOC’s decision to integrate the sport of lacrosse into the 2028 Olympic Games shows an incredible appreciation for the performance that has been shown on and off the field for decades, with hard work from everyone involved and without large financial resources. The fact that we can now represent our sport at the largest sporting event in the world makes us incredibly proud. The decision shows how much potential the sport of lacrosse has to offer, and we athletes will work even harder to fully develop this potential.
Lena Stede, Germany Women’s National Team/German Lacrosse Association Athletes’ Commission Member
