Overview of the Premier Lacrosse League and Their 2023 Season
The Premier Lacrosse League (PLL) is one of the fastest growing professional sports leagues in America. Founded in 2018 by lacrosse superstar Paul Rabil and his brother Mike Rabil, the PLL has quickly established itself as the pinnacle of professional lacrosse. The league features the top players in the world across six teams competing in a tour-based format. Unlike other pro leagues anchored in specific cities, the PLL travels to different stadiums and cities across the country each weekend during their season. This innovative model brings live pro lacrosse to fans nationwide.
The 2023 PLL season will be the league’s fourth year in action. It kicks off on June 1st and runs through September 19th, comprising 15 weekends of regular season matchups, playoffs, and the championship. The league has added two new teams for 2023 – Cannons LC and Chaos LC – bringing the total number of teams to eight. Throughout the summer tour, PLL games will be hosted in premier venues including Gillette Stadium, Subaru Park, Red Bull Arena, and more. Major corporate sponsors help bring added excitement and production value to PLL games.
With stars like Rabil, Lyle Thompson, Matt Rambo, and Zed Williams leading the charge, the quality of play and competition in the Premier Lacrosse League is top-notch. Major broadcast deals with NBC Sports and ESPN have helped showcase PLL games to a wider national audience. The league continues to push the boundaries of traditional lacrosse and offer fans an electrifying live experience.
Heading into the 2023 campaign, the PLL aims to build on their momentum and take the sport to new heights. With an extended schedule, two new teams, and innovative rules that maximize athleticism and pace of play, the Premier Lacrosse League is set for their biggest season yet. Fans can expect an action-packed summer of must-see lacrosse as the PLL cements itself as a preeminent pro sports league and the future of lacrosse.
Key Games on the Premier Lacrosse League 2023 Schedule
The Premier Lacrosse League has put together an exciting slate of marquee matchups and can’t-miss games as part of their 2023 schedule. With the season expanded to 15 weekends, fans will have ample opportunities to see the best players in the world compete at the highest level.
One of the highlights of the early part of the schedule will be the season opener on June 1st at Gillette Stadium featuring the debut of new expansion team Cannons LC against the defending champion Whipsnakes LC. Seeing stars like Lyle Thompson, Randy Staats, and Zed Williams take the field for the first game of the year will set the tone for a thrilling season.
Later in June, the PLL All-Star Game will take place on the 23rd at Audi Field in Washington DC. This showcase of the league’s premier talent will include the newly introduced PLL Skills Competition to add to the excitement. Fans can vote for their favorite players to represent each division in the All-Star Game.
In July, the PLL will head to venues like Subaru Park and Red Bull Arena for marquee regional rivalries. The Cannons and Chaos will face off in Boston on July 14th in what is sure to be an intense matchup between the two new squads. The following week will feature a battle between Chrome LC and Atlas LC in New Jersey, where standout players like Connor Fields, Bryan Costabile and Will Manny will take center stage.
As the playoffs approach in September, the jockeying for postseason positioning will result in heightened drama and intensity. The playoff semifinals on September 16th and championship game on the 19th at Audi Field will provide a climactic ending to the PLL’s biggest season yet.
Across venues nationwide this summer, the Premier Lacrosse League 2023 schedule is loaded with highly anticipated matchups, new rivalries, All-Star festivities and high-stakes postseason implications. For both diehard and casual lacrosse fans, it shapes up to be the must-see event of the summer.
Where to Buy Tickets for Premier Lacrosse League Games
With an action-packed slate of games across the country, demand for tickets to see the Premier Lacrosse League live will be high in 2023. Fans looking to experience the fast-paced excitement of PLL lacrosse have a few different options to purchase tickets.
The primary source for tickets will be the PLL’s official website atwww.premierlacrosseleague.com. Here fans can browse the schedule, see which teams are playing each weekend and location, and directly purchase tickets for any matchup. The PLL website provides interactive seat maps to see views from different areas of the stadium before selecting seats.
In addition to direct sales, the Premier Lacrosse League also partners with the primary ticket providers for each venue. For games at major stadiums like Gillette Stadium, Subaru Park, or Red Bull Arena, fans can buy tickets directly from Ticketmaster. The benefit of using Ticketmaster is that you can purchase PLL tickets as part of broader event packages or season ticket plans at each stadium.
The PLL offers a range of affordable ticket options to fit different budgets. Single game ticket prices start as low as $25 for general admission seating. Reserved sideline seats are available starting around $40. For a more premium experience, fans can purchase pod seating on the field starting at $150. These on-field pods include VIP parking, drinks, and all-inclusive amenities. Group and family packages are also available.
As an emerging league, the Premier Lacrosse League provides fans a unique opportunity to experience professional lacrosse in an intimate setting at a great value. With flexible purchasing options through the PLL website, Ticketmaster, and individual team/arena partners, securing tickets to the hottest new sports league is easier than ever.
Premier Lacrosse League’s Home Stadiums and Venues
One of the unique aspects of the Premier Lacrosse League is its tour-based model that brings games to fans across the United States. Rather than being anchored in specific home cities, the PLL travels to premier stadiums and venues in lacrosse hotbeds and major media markets each weekend.
Some of the highlights of the PLL’s 2023 home sites include Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, Massachusetts, Red Bull Arena in Harrison, New Jersey, Subaru Park in Chester, Pennsylvania, and Audi Field in Washington DC. These stadiums offer first-class amenities for both players and fans while allowing the PLL to tap into new lacrosse markets.
Gillette Stadium, home of the New England Patriots, will host several regular season PLL games as well as the 2023 PLL championship. The energy and excitement of championship weekend in Foxboro creates a big-event feel. Red Bull Arena, home of the New York Red Bulls MLS team, brings professional lacrosse to the New York metro area with an intimate yet raucous atmosphere. Local fans will pack the stands as teams like Atlas LC battle for bragging rights.
In addition to large stadiums, the Premier Lacrosse League also taps into beloved lacrosse venues and college campuses. Games at Homewood Field on Johns Hopkins University’s campus in Baltimore provide an old-school lacrosse vibe. Peter Barton Lacrosse Stadium on the University of Denver campus highlights the growth of lacrosse out west.
Exposing new fans to the sport while rewarding loyal lacrosse hotbeds is central to the PLL’s venue strategy. Touring different energetic stadiums each week also keeps things fresh for players while creating a nationwide slate of must-see matchups.
Must-See Premier Lacrosse League Stadiums This Season
The Premier Lacrosse League brings fast-paced, thrilling professional lacrosse action to venues across North America each summer. While every PLL stadium offers a fantastic fan experience, here are a few can’t-miss lacrosse cathedrals on the schedule for the 2023 season.
Audi Field in Washington DC will host several marquee PLL events this summer, including the All-Star Game on June 23rd and the playoff semifinals and championship weekend September 16-19. The home of DC United of the MLS, Audi Field offers premium amenities in a picturesque waterfront setting. Fans will pack the stands to cheer on lacrosse’s biggest stars.
One of the sport’s most hallowed grounds, Homewood Field on the campus of Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore will host the PLL on July 7-8. The historic home of Hopkins lacrosse, Homewood Field has been hosting college lacrosse for over 100 years. PLL fans can soak in the tradition while watching pros battle on the same field as lacrosse legends.
For a more intimate lacrosse experience, Peter Barton Lacrosse Stadium on the campus of the University of Denver is a bucket list PLL venue. With the Rocky Mountains as a backdrop, the raucous DU faithful will come out in droves on August 18-19 as the PLL taps into the sport’s growing popularity out west.
Of course, no discussion of iconic PLL stadiums is complete without Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, home of the New England Patriots. Hosting the opener on June 1 and championship weekend September 19, Gillette provides a big-game atmosphere for pro lacrosse’s biggest moments.
From college campuses to pro football cathedrals, the Premier Lacrosse League venues showcase the very best settings the sport has to offer. Be sure to catch the PLL when it visits one of these must-see stadiums in a city near you this summer.
Premier Lacrosse League Playoff and Championship Details
The culmination of the Premier Lacrosse League’s season comes in the playoffs and championship weekend held in September each year. The structure provides exciting late-summer lacrosse drama as teams battle for the ultimate prize.
The top four teams in the PLL standings qualify for the single-elimination playoff semifinals based on regular season record. The semis will take place on Saturday, September 16th at Audi Field, with the winners advancing to the championship game. The PLL title game is held two days later on Monday, September 19th, also at Audi Field.
In the previous two PLL seasons, the championship weekend has provided nonstop excitement and highlights. The inaugural title in 2019 came down to a thrilling last-second dive shot goal by Matt Rambo to deliver the championship for the Whipsnakes over Chaos. Last season, Zed Williams posted 7 points to lead the Whipsnakes to a dominant 17-10 win over Atlas for their second straight title.
With the league expanding to eight teams in 2023, the path to the Steinfeld Trophy will be more challenging than ever. Established powers like Chrome LC, Atlas LC and Chaos LC will be pushed by newcomers Cannons LC and Archers LC in the playoff race. And all teams will be gunning to dethrone the two-time defending champion Whipsnakes.
Fans can expect playoff lacrosse intensity throughout September as squads fight for the right to raise the trophy on the sport’s biggest stage at Audi Field. Don’t miss a minute of the Premier Lacrosse League postseason as champions are crowned this fall.
Premier Lacrosse League’s Growth in Popularity and Fandom
In just a few short years, the Premier Lacrosse League has seen tremendous growth in popularity and developed an avid fan following. The PLL offers a fresh and exciting viewing experience that is resonating with both established and new lacrosse fans nationwide.
Since launching in 2019, the PLL has seen its attendance rise significantly each season. The tour-based model allows fans across North America to experience the action and energy of a live PLL game. Total attendance surpassed 100,000 fans last season, nearly double the inaugural year. A wider TV presence with NBC, NBC Sports Network and ESPN has also enhanced accessibility for fans.
The PLL leverages an innovative digital strategy to foster community and connection with supporters. Active social media engagement, video highlights, and enhanced stats allow fans to fully immerse themselves in the PLL world. Partnerships with sports betting providers like DraftKings have also tapped into new fan markets.
While lacrosse has traditionally been concentrated in pockets on the east coast and mid-Atlantic, the PLL is expanding its scope. Holding events at venues ranging from LA’s Dignity Health Sports Park to Denver’s Peter Barton Lacrosse Stadium grows visibility in new regions. PLL stars like former University of Utah standout Zack Greer connect with local communities to inspire new generations of players and fans.
With the excitement around new teams Cannons LC and Chaos LC, plus established stars like Rabil, Thompson and Rambo shining, the Premier Lacrosse League’s fanbase and prestige will continue trending upward. The PLL provides an excellent model for how modern leagues can thoughtfully blend tradition and innovation to drive growth.
Top Premier Lacrosse League Players to Watch
The Premier Lacrosse League features the most electrifying players and personalities in the sport today. With nonstop end-to-end action, PLL games showcase the incredible skills and athleticism of pro lacrosse stars.
Leading the pack are lacrosse legends and co-founders Paul Rabil and his brother Mike Rabil. Paul, the longest tenured pro in lacrosse history, continues to compete at an elite level well into his 30s. His vision and leadership have been instrumental in the PLL’s success.
The face of the Iroquois Nationals program, Lyle Thompson is must-see television every time he steps on the field. His speed, quickness and signature behind-the-back shots dazzle fans while dominating opposing defenses. Also keep an eye on his brother Miles Thompson, whose scoring prowess makes the Thompsons lacrosse’s version of the Splash Brothers.
After winning back-to-backtitles with the Whipsnakes, scoring machine Zed Williams will look to three-peat as league MVP this season. His athletic, uncoverable style epitomizes the fast pace of PLL action. Other offensive stars like Connor Fields, Matt Rambo and Ryan Brown are all capable of jaw-dropping highlights.
Between the pipes, goalies like Adam Ghitelman of the Chaos and Austin Pifani of the Chrome are the last lines of defense. Their quick reflexes and acrobatic saves punctuate PLL games with excitement. Matching up against sharpshooting offensive talents, these netminders embrace the challenge night in and night out.
With an infusion of new talent through the expansion draft plus established superstars, the Premier Lacrosse League is loaded with must-see personalities. Seeing the world’s best lacrosse athletes compete at the peak of their powers promises pure entertainment for PLL fans all summer long.
Premier Lacrosse League’s Innovative Rules and Format
A key part of the Premier Lacrosse League’s appeal is the innovative rule changes and format that set it apart from traditional lacrosse. By emphasizing increased pace of play, athleticism, and non-stop action, the PLL has created a fast-paced, TV-friendly viewing experience.
One of the most visible changes is the implementation of a shot clock. Both teams have 18 seconds to take a shot on goal once gaining possession. This accelerates the pace of play and minimizes stall tactics. Thetimer counting down adds drama and urgency for both players and fans.
The PLL also introduced a new faceoff format known as the “faceoff triangle.” Three players from each team battle for the ball after timeouts or goals. This creates scrappy one-on-one matchups and a more continuous flow. By deemphasizing specialized faceoff specialists, the new format allows more contributors to shine.
Additional innovations like the two-point shot from beyond 12 yards and reduced short-stick defenders provide incentives for offenses to attack aggressively. Supplemental drafts and trade windows maintain parity across PLL teams for competitive balance.
The touring model bringing games to fans across North America also differentiates the Premier Lacrosse League from traditional sports leagues. Weekly matchups feel like big events in each market, while the season-long standings lending continuity. This structure provides the PLL a national footprint and scope.
Finding the right balance between honoring lacrosse tradition while modernizing the game for the future, the PLL’s innovative format has struck a chord with both loyal and new fans alike. The league promises even more excitement in years to come by continuing to push the envelope.
How the Premier Lacrosse League Is Changing the Sport
In just a few short years, the Premier Lacrosse League has already had a profound impact on shaping the future trajectory of professional lacrosse. By boldly challenging the status quo, the PLL is demonstrating how innovation and fan-focused strategies can drive growth for an emerging sport.
At the most basic level, the PLL has given lacrosse talent an exciting new platform to showcase skills and promote the sport. Stars like Paul Rabil have praised the league for providing financial stability, youth outreach, and national visibility that the lacrosse landscape previously lacked. Enhanced access through TV and streaming deals raises awareness.
The touring model brings live professional lacrosse to geographic areas and communities where the sport still lacks roots. Instead of consolidating lacrosse hotbeds, the PLL takes the game directly to new populations. Events in cities ranging from Atlanta to Salt Lake City help expand lacrosse exposure.
Creative formats like the shot clock, two-point arc, and faceoff triangle make the action more understandable and enjoyable for first-time viewers. Balancing history with showmanship and entertainment values broadens the fanbase. Strategic partnerships with brands like Ticketmaster, ESPN, and Adidas add legitimacy.
With participation in youth and high school lacrosse rapidly increasing, the Premier Lacrosse League is meeting the moment for continued growth. There is tremendous potential to challenge the more established pro sports leagues for market share in the coming decade. The PLL provides a template for how modern sports properties can be built with fans and players as the focus.
Premier Lacrosse League’s Major Corporate Sponsors
A key strategy of sports leagues as they grow prominence is securing corporate sponsorships from major brand partners. The Premier Lacrosse League has already assembled an impressive roster of sponsors that provide revenue while also expanding their visibility and reach.
One of the founding partners of the PLL is sports entertainment giant NBC Sports. Serving as the league’s main broadcast partner, NBC and their family of networks carry PLL games to a national TV audience each week. This mainstream presence lends legitimacy and allows lacrosse to access NBC’s wider promotional platforms.
Other key media and technology sponsors include ESPN, Twitter, DraftKings and Ticketmaster. Having ESPN broadcast select games brings added viewer reach. Twitter provides an ideal digital space for PLL highlights and discourse to engage younger fans. DraftKings integration allows newer lacrosse fans to get skin in the game through sports betting. And Ticketmaster facilitates broader ticket sales.
On the equipment side, Adidas signed on as the official outfitter of the Premier Lacrosse League through their subsidiary company Maverik Lacrosse. Providing jerseys, helmets, pads and more gives Adidas branding exposure to a new audience. Other partners like Coca-Cola bring beverage rights and activation opportunities at PLL events.
With growing attendance, viewership and revenues, the PLL hopes to continue attracting even more elite corporate partners over time. The early slate of sponsors indicates the league’s potential for expansion as both an emerging sports property and marketing platform.
Overview of Equipment Used in the Premier Lacrosse League
The fast-paced, high-flying action of Premier Lacrosse League games is fueled by cutting-edge equipment that allows players to perform at their peak. From carbon composite sticks to lightweight padding, the PLL utilizes the latest technology and gear.
Maverik, a leading equipment brand under lacrosse powerhouse Adidas, is the official outfitter of the PLL. Maverik produces signature sticks for top stars like Paul Rabil, customized to their preferences for weight, flex and balance. These sticks, engineered from advanced composite materials, enable players to rip high-velocity shots.
PLL players don football-style helmets with full cages rather than traditional lacrosse lids to allow for more physical play. These helmets from brands like Cascade and Warrior provide critical protection during hard collisions and checks. Ventilation cutouts prevent overheating on hot summer days.
Padding under the jerseys protects the rib and shoulder areas while remaining lightweight and breathable. Gloves permit dexterity while shielding hands from checks. Cleats from Nike and Under Armour provide traction and quick cuts on turf surfaces. Customization and comfort allow athletes to excel.
The Premier Lacrosse League also utilizes advanced technology like player tracking sensors to gather data and provide insights to fans on speed, motion, and acceleration. Equipment innovations enhance both the competition on the field and how supporters experience the game.
The PLL prides itself on ensuring players have access to the top gear for optimizing speed, safety, and performance. State-of-the-art equipment paired with world-class talent creates next-level lacrosse action.
Highlighting the Premier Lacrosse League’s Major Events
In addition to an action-packed slate of regular season games, the Premier Lacrosse League schedule features exciting major events that serve as marquee touchpoints each year.
The PLL season kicks off with an Opening Day extravaganza, typically held at a major pro stadium like Gillette Stadium. Opening Day sets the tone for the upcoming PLL season with all teams showcasing new rosters and high-energy introductions.
In the heart of summer, lacrosse fans converge for All-Star Weekend festivities. The best players from the PLL are voted into the All-Star Game by fans. Skills competitions like the fastest shot and accuracy shooting contests add interactive elements. The All-Star Game provides a glimpse of the sport’s premier talent in one showcase.
The PLL College Draft each spring provides another peak on the calendar, as the league’s teams select top collegiate players to infuse new talent. Occurring just ahead of the NCAA season, the draft generates buzz around rising college stars on the verge of turning pro.
Trade windows are strategically placed just before and after the All-Star break, encouraging teams to make big moves for the playoff push. The flurry of transactions keeps things interesting for fans to track.
Of course, the playoffs and championship game represent the biggest events. With the Steinfeld Cup on the line, the competitiveness and intensity reaches new heights.
Major happenings like these throughout the calendar provide planned touchpoints driving fan engagement. The Premier Lacrosse League masterfully blends exhilarating on-field play with creative events to deepen connections.
Premier Lacrosse League’s Charitable Efforts and Initiatives
In addition to providing fast-paced entertainment, the Premier Lacrosse League and its players are also committed to giving back and serving their communities through charitable initiatives.
The flagship charitable program of the PLL is the 2K Alliance. Named after co-founder Paul Rabil’s jersey number, the 2K Alliance partners with organizations focused on issues like healthcare, education, childhood development, and fighting poverty. Recent 2K Alliance partners include charities like Youth Inc., Up2Us and Bottom Line.
The league also created the Heather Crowe Courage Award, presented each year at the draft to a collegiate player who demonstrated determination to overcome adversity. The award honors a former coach who valiantly battled brain cancer and reminds that lacrosse develops character and resilience.
Individual PLL teams and players also give back through efforts like youth lacrosse clinics, school visits, fundraising tournaments, and more. For example, Chrome LC hosts Project 9 Lacrosse events aimed at making the sport more accessible for disadvantaged youth. Players volunteer time as coaches and mentors.
The Premier Lacrosse League shares kindred values of passion, grit, and community with the sport of lacrosse. Celebrating and expanding access to this great game motivates players to engage with causes bigger than themselves. Using their growing profile for good demonstrates the PLL’s commitment to empowering communities.
Athletic success and business growth are important ambitions. But the Premier Lacrosse League also connects with supporters through purpose-driven efforts improving lives.
Why the Premier Lacrosse League Is an Exciting Brand of Lacrosse
As professional lacrosse continues to grow and evolve, the Premier Lacrosse League stands out as an exciting new brand delivering a thrilling on-field product that resonates with fans.
PLL games feature fast-paced, highlight-reel action showcasing the world’s best players. Offensive stars like Lyle Thompson and Zed Williams make jaw-dropping plays look routine with their athleticism and flair. Top goalies like Adam Ghitelman routinely rob would-be scorers with acrobatic saves.
The league’s tour-based model brings live pro lacrosse directly to fans nationwide, rather than consolidating games in a few cities. This gives more communities opportunities to experience PLL action and energy in-person. Whether at college campuses, pro stadiums, or pop-up venues, the setting and atmosphere amplifies the excitement.
Innovative rules like the shot clock, two-point shot and faceoff triangle create a modernized viewing experience optimized for new fans. But lacrosse purists also appreciate seeing elite talent thrive within the adapted format. The PLL has found the sweet spot between honoring tradition and embracing entertainment.
Rising young stars get opportunities to shine on the big stage alongside established legends like Paul Rabil. Storylines and player personalities give fans rallying points. PLL content across social and digital channels sustains engagement between games.