The Rise of NCAA Lacrosse: Growth, Economics, and Future Prospects
By: Todd M. Schoenberger, CEO of CrossCheck Media Inc.; CIO of CrossCheck Management LLC
As NCAA Division I Men’s Lacrosse kicks off on February 1st and the Women’s season follows on February 7th, excitement builds for one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States. Once a niche sport played predominantly in the Northeast, lacrosse has expanded across the country, gaining traction at both the youth and collegiate levels. With increasing participation, rising economic impact, and a booming equipment industry, lacrosse is proving to be a force in the American sports landscape.
The Growth of Lacrosse: By the Numbers
Lacrosse participation has skyrocketed over the past decade. According to USA Lacrosse, there were over 1.2 million lacrosse players in the U.S. in 2023, a substantial increase from previous years. Youth lacrosse has seen a nearly 20% increase in participation over the past decade, with many states beyond the traditional strongholds of New York and Maryland embracing the sport.
At the high school level, lacrosse is now among the fastest-growing sports, with over 300,000 players competing nationwide. On the collegiate front, NCAA lacrosse has expanded significantly, with over 400 men's and women's varsity teams across Divisions I, II, and III. The 2023 NCAA Division I Men’s Lacrosse National Championship game between Notre Dame and Duke set a record with nearly 32,000 fans in attendance and an additional 800,000+ viewers on television.
The Economics of College Lacrosse
The increasing popularity of lacrosse is reflected in the financial investments made by colleges and universities. While powerhouse programs like Maryland, Syracuse, and Virginia generate millions in revenue through ticket sales, sponsorships, and apparel deals, lacrosse remains a significant expense for many institutions. On average, Division I men’s lacrosse programs operate on annual budgets ranging from $500,000 to $2 million, with top-tier programs exceeding that figure. Women's lacrosse, which has also seen substantial growth, typically operates within a slightly lower range but continues to receive increased financial support.
Sponsorship and media deals for lacrosse are also evolving. ESPN and other major sports networks have expanded their coverage, increasing the sport’s visibility. The recent surge in NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals has further boosted individual athletes, making lacrosse a more attractive collegiate option.
The Lacrosse Equipment Market: A Billion-Dollar Industry
The growth of lacrosse has fueled a thriving equipment industry, with manufacturers like STX, Warrior, Maverik, and Cascade leading the way. The global lacrosse equipment market is valued at over $1.2 billion and continues to grow at an annual rate of 4-5%. In the U.S. alone, lacrosse gear sales—including sticks, helmets, gloves, and protective equipment—have seen double-digit percentage increases over the past five years.
STX, one of the most recognizable brands in lacrosse, reported a 15% increase in revenue in 2023, driven by strong sales in protective gear and custom sticks. Warrior and Maverik have also expanded their product lines, with Maverik capturing a larger share of the youth market. With the continued expansion of the sport at all levels, industry analysts project the lacrosse equipment market could reach $1.5 billion by 2027.
The Future of Lacrosse
With increasing national exposure, rising participation rates, and a booming equipment market, lacrosse is no longer a regional sport—it’s a national phenomenon. The momentum suggests that more schools will continue to add lacrosse programs, further diversifying the sport’s reach. The upcoming NCAA season promises intense competition, passionate fan engagement, and a continued push toward mainstream recognition.
As the 2025 NCAA lacrosse season begins, one thing is clear: the sport is on a trajectory of rapid expansion. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the game, this season is set to be one of the most exciting in the sport’s history.
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