NIAA Pushes for Lacrosse as High School Varsity Sport in Nevada
LAS VEGAS, Nev. (FOX5) – The Nevada Interscholastic Activities Association (NIAA) is leading the charge to officially sanction lacrosse as a high school varsity sport, targeting the 2026-27 school year for its debut. An Emergency Board of Control Meeting is scheduled for August, where the proposal is set to be discussed.
Governor Joe Lombardo has expressed strong support for this initiative, emphasizing the sport’s rich cultural heritage and the potential it offers to Nevada’s youth. “I’m grateful for the work of the NIAA to officially sanction lacrosse,” said Lombardo. “I look forward to more Nevada students participating in it."
Support from local sports organizations is robust, with figures from the Las Vegas Desert Dogs and USA Lacrosse backing the governor’s push. Paul Speaker, CEO of the Las Vegas Desert Dogs, described the potential sanctioning as “a monumental step forward for the lacrosse community.” He highlighted the importance of this initiative in developing youth lacrosse and enriching Nevada’s overall sports landscape.
Approval of lacrosse as an official high school sport would enable teams to compete in state championships and participate in out-of-state competitions, significantly expanding opportunities for players in the state. This development marks a pivotal moment for lacrosse in Nevada, promising to inspire future generations of athletes.
The NIAA’s proposal, supported by both governmental and sports organizations, is poised to reshape the athletic landscape for high school students across the state, fostering greater engagement in this dynamic sport.
As the August meeting approaches, excitement builds within the community for what could be a major milestone for youth athletics in Nevada.
Source
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image of the presented article.
