As the NCAA lacrosse season ramps up, dedicated fans are already looking ahead to the highlight of the year – the final four tournament. This thrilling event brings together the top men’s and women’s college lacrosse teams in the country to battle it out for the coveted national championship. But where will this momentous tournament take place? Let’s take a closer look at the past and future NCAA lacrosse final four locations.
A Brief History of the NCAA Lacrosse Championships
The NCAA has been crowning men’s lacrosse champions since 1971, while the women’s tournament began in 1982. The men’s tournament starts with 16 teams, while the women’s event features 26 schools. Both culminate in a final four weekend where the semifinals and national championship game take place at a predetermined neutral site.
Over the years, these final four tournaments have been held in venues all over the country. Iconic lacrosse locales like Baltimore, Philadelphia, and Foxborough have played host. Other past host cities include College Park, Maryland; East Hartford, Connecticut; Cambridge, Massachusetts; and Hempstead, New York.
The men’s and women’s championships have also been held together in the same final four weekend numerous times. This allows fans to enjoy double the lacrosse action and creates an electric atmosphere.
This Year’s Final Four Locations
So where will the top NCAA lacrosse talent congregate this year on their quest for a national title? The 2023 men’s final four will take place at Rentschler Field in East Hartford, Connecticut May 27th and 29th. This 15,000 seat outdoor stadium is home to the University of Connecticut football team and previously hosted the 2018 men’s lacrosse final four.
The women’s final four will also take place over Memorial Day weekend. It will be held May 26th and 28th at Towson University’s Johnny Unitas Stadium near Baltimore, Maryland. This venue seats over 10,000 fans and Towson will host for the first time.
The Men’s Lacrosse Championship
The Division I men’s lacrosse tournament has been dominated by a handful of east coast lacrosse powerhouses like Johns Hopkins, Syracuse, Maryland, and Virginia. These storied programs have combined for over half of the national championships awarded.
However, recent years have brought more parity. Teams like Yale, Duke, Denver, and Carolina have claimed titles as well. This year’s tournament should feature its usual mix of perennial contenders and rising programs.
Defending champion Maryland will look to claim back-to-back titles, something that hasn’t been done since Syracuse’s dominant run from 2008-2009. But challengers like reigning runner-up Cornell, 2022 semifinalist Rutgers, and always dangerous Hopkins and UVa aim to dethrone the Terps.
The Women’s Lacrosse Landscape
Unlike the men’s tournament, there has been greater diversity among champions on the women’s side. Programs like Maryland, North Carolina, Northwestern, Syracuse, and Boston College have all hoisted trophies over the past two decades.
However, Boston College will enter 2023 looking for a third straight title. The Eagles have established themselves as the team to beat after defeating North Carolina in two recent championship games. But the Tar Heels and perennial powers Maryland and Northwestern will be hungry to knock off BC this season.
The Thrill of the Final Four
No matter which teams make it through to Memorial Day weekend, the final four atmosphere is truly special. Watching the future stars of professional lacrosse compete with a national championship on the line is a dream for any fan.
The pageantry, school spirit, and electric crowds that converge on the host venues create memories that last a lifetime. And lacrosse enthusiasts from around the country will flock to East Hartford and Baltimore this year for their shot to witness history.
From tailgating to facing off for the trophy, the NCAA lacrosse final four is a highlight of the sporting calendar. The road to this year’s championship weekend starts now. It will be fascinating to watch how the tournaments take shape and which programs ultimately advance to the final sites. East Hartford and Baltimore prepared to be invaded by lacrosse fever this May!
The NCAA lacrosse postseason culminates each year with the anxiously awaited final four tournaments. Fans can’t wait to see which teams will make it to championship weekend and battle for the coveted national titles. But how long has this thrilling event been around? Let’s take a nostalgic walk through the history of the NCAA lacrosse final four.
Origins of the Men’s Lacrosse Championship
The NCAA began sponsoring a national championship tournament for men’s lacrosse in 1971. This inaugural event featured only eight teams and was won by Cornell over Maryland in the finals. In 1972, the field expanded to 16 teams where it remains today.
In the early years, powerhouse programs like Johns Hopkins, Maryland, and Cornell dominated. The tournament gained popularity through the 1970s as future legends like Del Dressel and Peter Scott suited up.
By the 1980s, the championship weekend was a hot ticket. Fans flocked to see high-flying offenses led by the Gait brothers at Syracuse and EMT line at Johns Hopkins. The final four had cemented itself as a staple of the lacrosse calendar.
The Women’s Game Follows Suit
Seeing the success of the men’s tournament, the NCAA launched a women’s lacrosse championship in 1982. The initial event featured just 12 teams and was won by UMass. The women’s field expanded to 14 teams in 1987 and 16 teams in 1993.
In the early years, Penn State claimed four of the first five titles. But as the game grew, traditional powers like Maryland and Virginia rose to prominence in the 1990s. Northwestern then dominated the 2000s, winning seven championships behind stars like Hannah Nielsen.
Today, 26 women’s teams qualify for the NCAA tournament each year. Perennial contenders like Maryland, North Carolina, and Boston College now aim for the coveted trophy.
Evolution to a Final Four Format
In the early years, both the men’s and women’s tournaments culminated with pre-determined championship games. But in 1986, the men’s event shifted to a final four format with national semifinals and a title game held at a neutral site.
The first men’s final four was held at Delaware and saw North Carolina top Virginia for the crown. The women also adopted the final four structure in 2003 when the semis and championship were held in Baltimore.
Since then, a different city has played host to the final four each year. Iconic venues like Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field, Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, and M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore have welcomed the championships.
Thrilling Moments in Final Four History
The NCAA lacrosse final fours have produced many unforgettable moments through the years. Fans still reminisce about classic games like Princeton’s overtime stunner over Virginia in 1992 or Maryland ending Cornell’s perfect season in 1976.
Other classics include Northwestern’s monumental comeback in 2009, Syracuse breaking through in 2008 after years of close calls, and Virginia capturing its first title in 1972 over Hopkins in a nail-biter.
Last year, we saw the emergence of Maryland goalie Logan McNaney, who stymied Cornell’s high-powered offense to lead the Terps to the championship.
This rich history continues to grow as new legends are made each year on the final four stage. The ultimate opportunity to shine arrives Memorial Day weekend!
The road to an NCAA men’s lacrosse title runs through the intense final four tournament each May. Ever since the inaugural championship in 1971, the best teams in the nation have battled for supremacy on this game’s biggest stage. Let’s break down this thrilling event and how teams can reach lacrosse’s pinnacle.
How Teams Qualify for the Men’s Final Four
The selection process starts when the 16-team NCAA tournament bracket is revealed in early May. There are 10 automatic qualifying spots reserved for conference champions. The remaining six bids go to at-large teams selected by the selection committee.
The top eight teams are seeded and receive first round byes. The other eight compete in play-in games to reach the quarterfinals. All rounds leading up to the final four weekend are played on campus sites.
The four quarterfinal winners advance to the final site, which is predetermined each year. These teams compete in the national semifinals, with the two victors meeting for the championship on Memorial Day.
Perennial Men’s Lacrosse Powers
Reaching the final four is no easy task given the consistent success of certain men’s lacrosse programs. Johns Hopkins has made more quarterfinal appearances and won more titles than any school.
Other traditional powers include Syracuse, Virginia, and Maryland. These teams almost always find themselves in the late May mix thanks to talent-rich rosters and astute coaches.
However, recent years have seen more diversity with first-time champions like Denver, Yale, and Virginia’s Lars Tiffany. But make no mistake – the household names lead the way more often than not.
Keys to Advancing in the Tournament
So how can a team break into the exclusive final four fraternity? It starts with competing in a strong conference to be battle-tested for the playoffs.
Depth and athleticism are crucial when playing three high-stakes games in nine days. Goalies and faceoff specialists often emerge as X-factors on a title run.
Experience is also pivotal. Upperclassmen who have been on past postseason trips can provide leadership when pressure is highest. And coaching mastery is needed to out-maneuver opponents.
Unexpected Final Four Cinderellas
While bluebloods may rule the roost, we’ve seen some shocking party crashers make the final four over the years. Just last season, Rutgers emerged from unranked to win two nail-biters and reach championship weekend.
Loyola Maryland, Notre Dame, and Brown have also pulled off bracket-busting feats by taking down ranked teams on their surprise journeys.
These underdog stories prove that no matter the pedigree, getting hot at the right time can lead to men’s lacrosse immortality. One magical win streak, and you’re on to the final four.
As we enter the teeth of the 2023 season, all eyes are on who will survive the trenches to reach the promised land. With a rich history and many twists and turns, one thing is certain – the road to the men’s lacrosse final four will be a riveting ride!
While the men’s tournament garners much of the attention, the NCAA women’s lacrosse championship has an epic history of its own. Since first being held in 1982, this event has showcased immense talent and crowned deserving champions. Let’s break down this thrilling tournament and the keys to claiming a national title.
The Women’s Lacrosse Tournament Format
The championship starts with 26 teams making the NCAA tournament in late May. There are 18 automatic bids granted to conference winners. The remaining 8 spots are at-large selections.
The top 10 teams get first round byes. After two rounds of play on campus sites, eight teams will have survived to advance to the women’s lacrosse final four weekend.
The predetermined final four location will host the national semifinals and championship game. This creates an electric atmosphere with the coveted trophy on the line.
Past Women’s Lacrosse Champions
In the early years, traditional powers like Penn State and UMass dominated. Maryland then rose to prominence in the 1990s behind stars like Jen Adams and Crista Samaras.
Northwestern shifted the landscape in the 2000s with seven titles behind greats like Hannah Nielsen and Taylor Thornton. More recently, Maryland and North Carolina have battled for supremacy.
And Boston College has staked its claim with two recent championships. The competitive balance continues to grow in women’s lacrosse each year.
Keys to Winning It All
Building a deep and talented roster is essential to make a championship run. Having athletic midfielders and lockdown defenders will carry teams through high-pressure games.
Draw control specialists have become pivotal in women’s lacrosse. Winning possessions off the draw can make or break tight playoff contests.
And coaching is equally important. The best mentors keep their teams focused amid the high stakes. Trusted game plans and in-game adjustments are vital.
Unexpected Final Four Cinderellas
While bluebloods often reign, some shockers have crashed the women’s lacrosse final four over the years. James Madison made a stunning run from unranked in 2018 before falling to Boston College in the finals.
Navy, Vanderbilt, Oregon, and USC have also emerged as surprise contenders to make the late May trip. These underdogs proved that anything can happen on the road to a title.
As the 2023 season kicks off, the race is on to see who will survive and advance to championship weekend. With perennial powers and rising upstarts, one thing is certain – the women’s lacrosse final four never disappoints!
The NCAA men’s lacrosse final four has traveled around to many prestigious venues over its history. Iconic stadiums and campuses have hosted the best teams vying for the national championship. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the previous men’s lacrosse final four sites.
Early Men’s Final Four Locations
When the tournament began in the 1970s, the championship weekend was held at established lacrosse hotbeds. The first final four took place at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island in 1971.
In the following years, final fours were held at venerable venues like Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium in Annapolis and Franklin Field in Philadelphia. These early rotations cemented the final four as a major event.
By 1978, the tournament arrived at Maryland’s Byrd Stadium, where crowds topped 30,000 to watch the semifinals and finals.
Traditional Men’s Lacrosse Sites
As the championship grew, certain venues became regular final four hosts thanks to their prestige and capacity. In the 1980s and 90s, venues like Delaware Stadium, Rutgers Stadium, and Byrd Stadium hosted multiple times.
And no site is more synonymous with lacrosse than Baltimore’s Memorial Stadium. The former home of the Colts and Orioles hosted six final fours between 1979 and 1993, thrilling record crowds.
These venues near lacrosse hotbeds guaranteed energized crowds and cemented the final four as a big-time event.
Modern Rotations and Venues
In recent decades, the final four has expanded its footprint to new venues while still returning to some classics. NFL stadiums like Foxboro’s Gillette Stadium brought big crowds in the 2000s and 2010s.
Campus sites like Lincoln Financial Field, M&T Bank Stadium, and Rentschler Field have entered the rotation. And lacrosse-centric venues like Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field still draw massive crowds.
The diversity of modern sites allows fans across the country to experience the excitement of the final four.
Most Frequent Men’s Final Four Hosts
Some venues have cemented themselves as championship weekend staples by hosting many times. Baltimore leads the way having hosted an astounding 17 final fours between its two stadiums.
Byrd Stadium in College Park follows with 13 while Philadelphia’s Franklin Field/Lincoln Financial Field is next with 8. These legendary venues have seen generations of champions crowned.
As the 2023 final four heads to Rentschler Field, the tournament’s legacy of premier venues continues. These stadiums and their crowds are a huge part of NCAA lacrosse history!
The NCAA women’s lacrosse final four has showcased the brightest stars at some prestigious venues since first being held in 2003. Let’s take a tour through some of the previous sites that have hosted the Division I semifinals and championship.
Early Women’s Final Four Locations
When the NCAA adopted the final four format, it sought established women’s lacrosse hotbeds to host the inaugural events. The first tournament was held at Johnny Unitas Stadium in Towson, Maryland in 2003.
Over the next few years, other nearby venues like Loyola University’s Curley Field and Riverdale SoccerPlex hosted. These Maryland and Virginia sites ushered in a new era for the women’s championship.
Traditional Women’s Lacrosse Venues
As the final four grew, staples like Towson University and Princeton University’s Class of 1952 Stadium entered the rotation. These schools offer first-class facilities near where the women’s game thrives.
The tournament also returned to Johnny Unitas Stadium frequently, as its 10,000 capacity is ideal for the crowds the women’s final four draws.
Venues like Villanova Stadium have also hosted multiple times, becoming synonymous with the championship weekend.
Modern Women’s Final Four Sites
In recent years, the women’s final four has expanded its geographic reach while still utilizing some classics. Legendary venues like Penn State’s Panzer Stadium and Stony Brook’s LaValle Stadium have entered the fold.
Professional stadiums like Talen Energy Stadium, home of MLS’s Philadelphia Union, have brought bigger crowds as the sport’s popularity grows.
No matter the location, players and fans know they are in for an unforgettable final four experience.
Most Frequent Women’s Final Four Hosts
Some venues have become staples by hosting many times over the past 20 years. Johnny Unitas Stadium leads with 8, while Towson University’s Minnegan Field and Princeton have each hosted 3 times.
These sites have seen some all-time great players and teams pursue women’s lacrosse glory. As the final four continues expanding, these foundations remain integral to the game.
The road to the 2023 title begins at Towson, adding another chapter to the final four’s storied history. These venues are hallowed ground to generations of players and fans.
Reaching the NCAA lacrosse final four takes talent, determination, and also navigating the competitive selection process. Teams in both the men’s and women’s tournaments must survive this intense road to book their ticket to championship weekend. Let’s break down how contenders can qualify for the final four.
Automatic Bids in Lacrosse Tournaments
The first avenue for qualifying is by winning an automatic berth. In the men’s bracket, 10 spots are reserved for conference champions from leagues like the Big Ten, ACC, Ivy League, and more.
On the women’s side, 18 automatic bids go to the winners of a wide range of conferences. Claiming these automatic spots rewards programs for toppling their conference foes.
But especially on the men’s side, the competitive nature of some leagues means contenders can be left out despite impressive seasons.
At-Large Selections
To round out the tournament brackets, selection committees award at-large bids to deserving teams, regardless of conference finish. The men receive 6 at-large spots, while the women get 8.
This is where factors like overall record, strength of schedule, quality wins, and late season momentum come into play. Lobbying from coaches also influences decisions.
Earning an at-large bid is crucial for talented squads in especially tough conferences. But the debate over snubs often generates controversy.
The Selection Show
The tournaments really take shape on Selection Sunday in early May when the brackets are revealed. Players and fans anxiously await to see if their teams are dancing.
Bubble teams sweat it out, while surprising conference champs celebrate their long-shot berths. And elite contenders finally turn focus to their championship quests.
Selection Sunday sets the table for a thrilling NCAA tournament. It officially begins the road to the final four.
Navigating the Bracket
Once in the tournament, teams need three wins to reach the final four. The top teams get byes, but others must play their way through the early rounds.
This requires beating quality opponents on short rest on campus sites. Teams must withstand injuries and exhaustion to survive.
Reaching championship weekend takes skill, mental toughness, clutch play, and overcoming the sudden-death pressure. Few are up to this grueling challenge.
The road from selections to the final four is a true test of lacrosse greatness. Those who conquer it earn their place in the sport’s history books!
The NCAA men’s lacrosse final four always brings together the nation’s elite teams. And a few storied programs have separated themselves historically as the most accomplished in championship history. Let’s take a look at some of the men’s squads that have defined greatness on the final four stage.
Johns Hopkins Blue Jays
No program has more men’s lacrosse national titles than Hopkins. The Blue Jays have won 9 championships in 18 final four appearances. Legends like the Desko brothers and Kyle Harrison starred for dominant Hopkins teams.
Their punishing defenses, prolific offenses, and steadfast coaching led to utter dominance in the 1970s and 80s. Hopkins remains a benchmark for excellence as one of the sport’s cornerstone programs.
Syracuse Orange
Syracuse sits just behind Hopkins with 8 national championships in 14 final four trips. Jim Brown started the tradition of greatness, but the Powell brothers and Gait twins defined an era in the 80s and 90s.
Behind these dynamic offensive talents, Cuse established itself as the flashy, box office program in lacrosse. Their electrifying run to the 2008 title epitomized Syracuse’s flair.
Maryland Terrapins
Maryland has also captured 3 national championships on the shoulders of stalwarts like Frank Urso, Andrew Whipple, and Logan McNaney. Their latest title in 2022 proved the Terps are still adding to their fearsome legacy.
The University of Maryland’s devotion to lacrosse combined with homegrown talent fueled their rise. Byrd Stadium became hallowed ground for the Terrapin faithful.
Princeton Tigers
Though Princeton only has 6 final fours and 3 titles, no program has a more mythical legacy. Bill Tierney’s Tigers defined the sport in the 1990s behind gutsy stars like Jesse Hubbard and John Hess.
Their comebacks, trick plays, and athleticism made Princeton games at Palmer Stadium legendary theater. The Tigers still remain the standard for Ivy League excellence.
These storied programs among others have shown what is required for final four glory. Their greatness across generations continues to inspire chasing teams today.
The NCAA women’s lacrosse final four brings together the elite each year. And a few legendary programs have separated themselves with their championship prowess. Let’s spotlight some of the greatest dynasties in women’s lacrosse final four history.
Maryland Terrapins
The Terrapins have been the preeminent program in women’s lacrosse for decades. Maryland has won 14 national championships and made 20 final four appearances behind stars like Jen Adams, Cathy Nelson, and Taylor Cummings.
Their midfield playmakers, stifling defenses, and stellar coaching first under Sue Tyler and now Cathy Reese have maintained a gold standard.
Northwestern Wildcats
During Maryland’s run, Northwestern emerged as their biggest rival. The Wildcats have claimed 8 national titles in 12 final four trips powered by greats like Hannah Nielsen and Sheehan Stanwick.
Northwestern’s culture of excellence and Midwest talent pipeline has toppled all challengers. Their unparalleled run in the 2000s stamped them as a new-age dynasty.
North Carolina Tar Heels
While UNC sometimes falls just short in final four matchups, their sustained success is still incredible. The Heels have won 3 championships behind superstars like Meredith Kane, Amber Falcone, and Becca Block.
North Carolina builds title contenders with ACC talent and thrives in tight games thanks to coach Jenny Levy’s poise.
Princeton Tigers
The Ivy League may not be a traditional hotbed, but Princeton’s legacy warrants mention. They have claimed 7 final four berths and 3 national titles behind players like Liz Cook and Candy Cassella.
Their trademark fundamentals, creativity, and resilience defined their golden era under Chris Sailer.
These legendary programs show what it takes to triumph on the women’s lacrosse final four stage. Their sustained excellence has etched their names in the record books.
Key Factors In Selecting Championship Locations
The NCAA lacrosse championships are some of the most anticipated events in college athletics each year. Fans eagerly await the announcement of the championship locations, as the host sites play a major role in the excitement and experience of the Final Four. But how exactly does the NCAA go about selecting the cities and venues to host these premier tournaments? There are several key factors involved.
First and foremost, the NCAA considers locations that have a strong lacrosse fan base and culture. Places where the sport has a significant following and history tend to be primary candidates. The NCAA wants to bring the championship games to cities where large crowds of enthusiastic fans will fill the stadiums and generate an electric atmosphere. Traditional lacrosse hotbeds like Baltimore, Denver, Long Island and upstate New York are regularly in the mix.
Logistics are another critical element. The NCAA examines which cities have adequate stadium and facility infrastructure to handle the Final Four events. Venues must have the seating capacity, locker rooms, hospitality areas and technical capabilities to stage the games and accompanying activities in a first-class manner. Local hotels also have to be able to accommodate the influx of teams, fans, media and NCAA staff.
Geographic distribution across the country is an additional factor. The NCAA aims to rotate the lacrosse championships across different regions over time to promote the sport’s nationwide growth. The organization tries to designate a good mix of East Coast, Midwest, South and West locations that bring the culminating games to diverse markets.
The NCAA also values destinations that demonstrate strong organizational ability and experience in hosting major sporting events. Cities with proven track records of staging high-profile tournaments like the Final Four provide confidence that they can handle the complex logistics. Volunteer staffing, public safety, ticketing and parking are just some of the elements that must be managed expertly.
Budgetary considerations cannot be overlooked either. The NCAA weighs venue rental fees, staffing costs, lodging expenses and other financial factors among potential championship sites. Optimal locations are able to keep these costs contained, while still providing services and amenities befitting the prestigious Final Four stage.
Lastly, intangible attributes like “wow factor” come into play. NCAA decision-makers look for championship locations that offer something unique from a experience perspective. This could mean playing in an iconic venue like Denver’s Mile High Stadium, or bringing the tournament to a market like Atlanta that doesn’t regularly host lacrosse events. The NCAA wants to create memories for student-athletes.
Weighing all these criteria is no easy task, and the NCAA selection committee thoroughly vets proposals from cities across the lacrosse landscape. But taking the time to evaluate based on fan interest, logistics, geography, organizational ability, costs and experience pays dividends in landing on championship sites that best showcase college lacrosse and create lifelong memories.
Where Will The Final Four Take Place This Year: NCAA Lacrosse Championship Locations Revealed
Lacrosse fans, it’s time to start planning your road trips and booking your hotels – the NCAA has just announced the locations for the 2023 men’s and women’s lacrosse Final Four tournaments. After thorough evaluation by the NCAA selection committee, some new cities will be hosting the spotlight while tradition carries the day in other spots. Let’s take a look at the sites.
On the men’s side, Philadelphia has earned the nod to host the 2023 Final Four at Lincoln Financial Field. Known affectionately as the “cradle of lacrosse,” Philadelphia is steeped in the sport’s history and traditions. The Philadelphia region boasts a massive lacrosse fan base and no shortage of quality venue options between Lincoln Financial Field, Subaru Park and historic Franklin Field. With the NCAA men’s lacrosse championship last coming to Philadelphia in 2013, the time was right for the Final Four to return to one of its most beloved locations.
Denver, meanwhile, will host the women’s lacrosse Final Four once again in 2023. The NCAA has made Denver a regular Final Four destination, recognizing the city’s emergence as a lacrosse hotspot and its first-class facilities. The 2023 women’s Final Four will take place at Empower Field at Mile High, home of the Denver Broncos, where the enormous capacity allows organizers to open up ticket sales to tens of thousands of fans. After Denver drew a record-breaking 31,000+ fans to the Final Four in 2019, the NCAA just keeps coming back.
Several other NCAA lacrosse championship sites were revealed for the 2023 slate beyond just the Final Fours:
- The men’s lacrosse quarterfinals will take place at Hofstra University on Long Island and Rentschler Field in East Hartford, CT.
- Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore will host the first round of the men’s tournament, while additional opening round games will take place at Ohio State, Rutgers and Harvard.
- On the women’s side, the quarterfinals will be played at Towson University in Maryland and La Salle University in Philadelphia.
- Women’s first and second round games will take place at Penn, Stanford, Florida, Northwestern and a site to be determined.
These championship location announcements allow fans to start planning vacations and events around the NCAA lacrosse postseason. Local organizing committees in the host cities can also begin preparations for putting on first-class events that provide memorable experiences for teams and fans.
While lacrosse hotbeds like Baltimore, Long Island and upstate New York landed tournaments as expected, the geographic diversity is also apparent with choices like Denver, Florida, Ohio State, Stanford and Towson. The NCAA continues to take steps to expand the reach of the sport.
The culminating showcase events will undoubtedly be the Final Fours, where legacies are defined and champions are crowned. Lincoln Financial Field and Empower Field at Mile High figure to be rocking with excitement come Memorial Day weekend.
Players dream for years about competing on the Final Four stage. Now they can start envisioning themselves playing in these incredible venues with the chance to win a national championship on the line. For the seniors on every team, this marks the final opportunity for glory.
The countdown to May and the 2023 NCAA lacrosse championships is officially on!
Iconic NCAA Lacrosse Championship Moments
The NCAA lacrosse championship is the pinnacle of college lacrosse. Since 1971, when the first NCAA men’s lacrosse tournament was held, there have been many iconic moments that have cemented their place in the history books. The championship weekend, known as the final four, always delivers excitement as the top teams battle it out for the coveted national title.
One of the most iconic NCAA lacrosse championships was in 1974, when Johns Hopkins defeated Maryland in double overtime. The game has simply become known as “The Game”, and is considered one of the greatest in college lacrosse history. Despite Maryland leading 5-3 going into the fourth quarter, Johns Hopkins clawed their way back before scoring the game-winner in the second overtime period to claim the title.
The 1984 final four was also one for the ages. Top-seeded Johns Hopkins was upset in the semifinals by fourth-seeded Maryland, who went on to defeat second-seeded Syracuse in the finals. It marked the first time in NCAA tournament history that the top two seeded teams failed to reach the championship game.
In the 1990s, Princeton established themselves as a lacrosse powerhouse, winning six titles between 1992 to 2001. Their 10-9 victory over Virginia in the 1992 championship game, which required four overtime periods to determine a winner, is considered one of the all-time classic NCAA finals.
One of the greatest individual performances in a championship game occurred in 1995, when Syracuse’s Casey Powell scored 9 goals against Maryland, including the game-winner in overtime. Powell dazzled with his offensive skills, leading the Orangemen to a 13-12 victory and their first ever national title.
The 2005 final four generated thrills with a pair of one-goal games. Johns Hopkins needed overtime to get past Duke, while Maryland edged Virginia. The championship game was also nail-bitingly close, with Johns Hopkins defeating Maryland 9-8 to claim the trophy.
Virginia ended over four decades of runner-up heartbreak by finally capturing their first national title in 2011, defeating Maryland in overtime. It was sweet redemption for the Cavaliers, who had lost seven previous NCAA finals – including in both 2006 and 2010.
In 2016, North Carolina emerged victorious after a wild championship weekend that saw all three games decided by one goal. The Tar Heels defeated Maryland 14-13 in the final, capturing the university’s first ever men’s lacrosse national title in dramatic fashion.
These moments merely scratch the surface of the legendary games, plays, and individual performances that have highlighted NCAA lacrosse championships over the past five decades. With the tournament expanding to 18 teams in 2003, there is now even more opportunity for shocking upsets and unbelievable finishes. The final four never fails to deliver excitement, as the top college programs battle fiercely for the ultimate prize in college lacrosse.
Where Will The Final Four Take Place This Year: NCAA Lacrosse Championship Locations Revealed
Lacrosse fans can start making their Memorial Day weekend plans, as the NCAA has announced the locations for the 2023 men’s lacrosse final four and national championship.
This year, the final four action will take place at Rentschler Field in East Hartford, Connecticut. The 38,000+ seat outdoor stadium is home to the University of Connecticut football team and has hosted the NCAA men’s lacrosse championship weekend six previous times.
The two NCAA national semifinals will take place on Saturday, May 27. The first matchup will feature the winners of the quarterfinal games between the number 1 and 8 seeds, followed by the winners between the 4 and 5 seeds.
The national championship game will then take place on Memorial Day Monday, May 29. The winner of the final four will be crowned the 2023 NCAA Division I men’s lacrosse national champions.
Rentschler Field previously hosted the final four in 2002, 2007, 2013, 2015, 2017 and 2021. Iconic stadiums like M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, and Gillette Stadium in Foxborough have also been past hosts.
The quarterfinal and semifinal matchups will be hotly anticipated, as the usual suspects like Maryland, Cornell, Princeton, Yale, Penn State, Rutgers, and Virginia figure to be in the mix. Perennial powers such as Johns Hopkins and Syracuse have slipped in recent years but could play spoiler.
Defending champions Maryland will look to capture back-to-back titles for the first time since the 1970s. The Terrapins defeated Princeton 15–10 in the 2022 final and have reached three straight championship weekends under head coach John Tillman.
Other top contenders looking for their first ever title include Rutgers, who fell to Maryland in last year’s semifinals, and Penn State, who have reached three of the last four final fours but are yet to break through for the trophy.
The NCAA tournament field will officially be announced on Sunday, May 7. Until then, speculation will run rampant about who will make the cut and if any stunning at-large selections or conference upsets shake up the bracket.
Once the matchups are set, there will surely be some instant classic contests during the final four weekend. If the past is any indication, fans can expect thrilling one goal games, overtime drama, and amazing individual performances as a deserving champion is crowned.
This Year’s Men’s Lacrosse Final Four Location
The NCAA Men’s Lacrosse Championship weekend is one of the most exciting events in college athletics. This year, the Final Four will take place at Rentschler Field in East Hartford, Connecticut on May 27th and 29th. For lacrosse fans and players across the country, all eyes will be on East Hartford to see who will be crowned national champions.
Rentschler Field is home to the University of Connecticut football team and is a top-notch facility that can accommodate over 40,000 fans. The stadium has hosted numerous NCAA tournament games over the years, but this will be the first time Rentschler Field will host the Men’s Lacrosse Final Four.
The NCAA selected Rentschler Field because of its premier location in a hotbed lacrosse region, its first-class amenities, and the proven success of hosting major NCAA events there in the past. East Hartford is conveniently located near lacrosse powerhouse schools like Yale, UMass, UConn, and many more in the northeast.
Fans traveling to Rentschler Field can expect an electric atmosphere as the four best teams in college lacrosse battle it out for the right to hoist the championship trophy. The NCAA puts on a fantastic event for both the teams and fans, with interactive games, competitions, merchandise shops, and tailgating parties.
The Final Four Teams
As of mid-April, the NCAA Tournament is still in the early rounds, so the Final Four teams are yet to be determined. However, some of the top contenders expected to make deep runs include reigning champions Maryland, undefeated Penn State, tradition-rich programs like Syracuse and Virginia, and rising teams like Rutgers, Yale, and Notre Dame.
The ACC and Big Ten conferences tend to get multiple teams into the Final Four each year. Perennial powers like North Carolina, Duke, Johns Hopkins, and Loyola Maryland are also threats to make it to championship weekend.
Once the bracket narrows down to the quarterfinals on May 20-22, the lacrosse world will have a better idea of which four excellent teams will book their trip to Rentschler Field. With so much parity in DI lacrosse today, it’s nearly impossible to predict which programs will be the last teams standing.
Championship Weekend Schedule
The Men’s Lacrosse Final Four follows a standard schedule each year at the championship site. Here is what fans can expect if they attend or watch on TV:
- Friday, May 27th – Semifinal #1 pits the #1 overall seed vs #4 overall seed. This game will take place at either 12 or 2:30 pm ET.
- Friday, May 27th – Semifinal #2 features the #2 overall seed vs the #3 overall seed. This game will start roughly 2 hours after Semifinal #1 concludes, so likely 4:30 pm ET.
- Sunday, May 29th – National Championship scheduled for 1 pm ET on ESPN2.
The top overall seeds get preferential scheduling by playing in the later semifinal time slots. But once championship weekend arrives, all four teams are on neutral ground and have an equal shot at the coveted NCAA trophy.
Getting Tickets to the Final Four
Given the popularity of college lacrosse and the limited seating at Rentschler Field compared to NFL stadiums, tickets are in high demand every year. Here are some tips to get tickets:
- Purchase through your school – Alumni associations or fan clubs from the participating schools will get ticket allotments to sell to their supporters.
- Buy on secondary market – Sites like StubHub, VividSeats, and SeatGeek will have resale tickets available, likely at inflated prices.
- NCAA ticket exchange – A limited number of tickets will be sold through the NCAA’s official ticket site closer to championship weekend.
- Check stadium box office – Any last minute tickets would be sold at Rentschler Field’s box office right before the games.
No matter how you can get your hands on tickets, it’s a worthwhile investment for fans who want to be part of one of the best sporting events and spectacles in college sports.
The Legacy of the Men’s Lacrosse Final Four
The Men’s Lacrosse Final Four always produces legendary games, plays, and moments that will be remembered forever in the sport. This year’s tournament will add to the event’s incredible legacy that dates back decades.
Past Final Fours held in iconic venues like Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field, Baltimore’s M&T Bank Stadium, and Foxboro Stadium are part of lacrosse lore. Epic championship games like Johns Hopkins vs. Maryland in 2005 or Carolina vs. Virginia in 2016 live on in highlight reels.
Championship weekend features the top collegiate players in the country, many of whom go on to star in Major League Lacrosse or make the US National Team. Legends like Paul Rabil, Mikey Powell, and Frankie Ratliff shined bright under the lights at the Final Four.
This year, new memories and stars will be born when lacrosse crowns its 2022 NCAA champion at Rentschler Field. For fans lucky enough to experience it in person or watching at home, it’s sure to be two days they will never forget.
Where Women’s Lacrosse Final Four Is Being Held
The pinnacle of the women’s college lacrosse season arrives Memorial Day weekend for the NCAA Women’s Lacrosse Championship. This year, the Final Four heads to Towson University’s Johnny Unitas Stadium in Towson, Maryland on May 27th and 29th. With lacrosse powerhouses littered across the Mid-Atlantic region, fans are in for an action-packed weekend in Towson.
Unitas Stadium can hold over 11,000 fans and will provide an outstanding atmosphere for the Final Four. The venue is home to Towson’s football and lacrosse teams and has the amenities needed to host major NCAA championship events. Towson last hosted the Women’s Lacrosse Final Four back in 2015.
In addition to its stellar location for lacrosse, Unitas Stadium gives the NCAA a cost-effective option to host the Final Four while still providing teams and fans with a top-notch experience. Nearby hotels, restaurants, and airports allow for accessible travel to the games as well.
Just like every year, the NCAA will transform Unitas Stadium into a celebration of women’s lacrosse for one unforgettable weekend. Fans will find interactive games, merchandise, contests, autograph sessions and the chance to watch the best collegiate players in the country battle for a national title.
The Final Four Contenders
At this point in April, the NCAA Tournament is in the early rounds, so predicting the Final Four teams is challenging. However, perennial championship programs like Maryland, North Carolina, Boston College, Syracuse, Northwestern and UConn often find themselves in the mix.
Parity in women’s lacrosse has grown tremendously in recent years. Schools like Stony Brook, Florida, Southern California, and Colorado have quickly risen up with deep tournament runs. So while the usual suspects will contend, new blood making the Final Four would not be a surprise.
As conference tournaments wrap up, keep an eye on the ACC, Big Ten and AAC winners as potential frontrunners. The Ivy League champion and at-large selections will also produce Final Four squads capable of winning it all.
The final brackets will take shape in mid-May before the race to Towson truly kicks off. It will be fascinating to watch it unfold and see which four teams get to extend their seasons for one more weekend.
Championship Weekend Schedule
Below is the standard schedule for the Women’s College Lacrosse Final Four weekend:
- Friday, May 27th – Semifinal #1 will take place around 5 or 7 pm ET and features the #1 overall seed vs. #4 overall seed.
- Friday, May 27th – Semifinal #2 will be the nightcap game at 7:30 or 9:30 pm ET between the #2 and #3 seeds.
- Sunday, May 29th – National Championship game scheduled for Noon on ESPN.
The top overall seeds earn the privilege of playing in the later semifinal time slots. But once at Unitas Stadium, every team has the same opportunity to hoist the trophy and cut down the nets, regardless of ranking.
How to Get Women’s Lacrosse Final Four Tickets
Tickets will be in high demand, so lacrosse fans need to plan ahead on the best options to experience the action live. Here are some tips on getting tickets:
- Check your school – Alumni associations or fan clubs for the participating schools will get allotments to sell to their fans.
- Try secondary market – Resale sites like StubHub, SeatGeek, or Vivid Seats will have tickets, likely at inflated prices.
- NCAA ticket site – Closer to Memorial Day weekend, a limited number of tickets may be released on the official NCAA website.
- Unitas Stadium – Any last minute tickets would be sold at the box office right before the games start.
No venue can match the excitement of seeing top-flight NCAA lacrosse talent going head-to-head with a national championship on the line. Tickets are the hot commodity to experience it live and create lifelong memories.
The Significance of Women’s Lacrosse Final Four
The Women’s Lacrosse Final Four has cemented itself as one of the premier events on the college sports calendar every year. This season’s tournament in Towson will only add to the event’s growing legacy and popularity.
All-time greats like Jen Adams, Taylor Cummings, Kayla Treanor, and Crista Samaras etched their names into lacrosse lore over championship weekend. They joined other legends before them like Jen Russell, Christy Rorke, and Sarah Forbes who helped build the game.
The Final Four provides a platform for the stars of tomorrow to break out and build their own legacy in the sport’s biggest spotlight. Past venues like Talen Energy Stadium, Stony Brook’s LaValle Stadium, and Towson’s own Johnny Unitas Stadium are regular stops for the finals.
With extensive media coverage and recognition, the Final Four grows the profile of NCAA women’s lacrosse and inspires the next generation of young players.
When the 2022 national champion is crowned at Unitas Stadium, more history will be made. For the lucky fans able to witness it live or watching at home, they will forever remember being part of one of college lacrosse’s greatest weekends.
Impact Of Hosting NCAA Lacrosse Championships
Being selected to host the NCAA Lacrosse Championships is a huge honor for any city or venue. Hosting the pinnacle event of college lacrosse has major benefits for the local community and helps grow the sport nationwide.
The NCAA rotates the men’s and women’s lacrosse Final Four location each year, aiming to spread the marquee event around hotbed lacrosse areas. Hosting duties require specific venue requirements, ample lodging, transportation infrastructure, and a strong local organizing team.
For the cities and venues that meet the criteria, hosting the Lacrosse Final Four brings plenty of perks and exposure. Here are some of the top benefits:
Economic Impact
Hosting a major sporting event like the lacrosse championships generates significant tourism dollars for local businesses. Hotels, restaurants, retailers, transportation providers and more see major boosts around the event.
Fans not only come from the participating schools but general lacrosse enthusiasts that make the trip for championship weekend. The NCAA also books large blocks of hotel rooms for teams, officials, staff, media and sponsors.
Venues earn additional revenue from parking, concessions, merchandise sales and facility fees. Sponsor activations also require spending on production, rentals and labor. The dollars add up quickly.
National Exposure
The lacrosse championships receive extensive media coverage on ESPN networks and live streams. This puts the host city in the national spotlight for a whole weekend to showcase amenities to a wider audience.
Media and fans share experiences on social media for those unable to attend to see. Hosting cities utilize the attention to promote tourism and marketing campaigns leveraging the championships.
Venues also receive exposure that can help attract future events. Johnny Unitas Stadium will be on full display during the women’s Final Four and can use that visibility to their advantage.
Opportunity for Local Lacrosse Growth
The popularity of lacrosse has skyrocketed over the last decade, especially at the youth levels. Host cities utilize the championships to spur further local growth.
Clinics, youth tournaments and participation opportunities are coordinated to capitalize on the buzz. Seeing the stars of college lacrosse up close inspires the next generation.
Local lacrosse clubs and high school teams assist with volunteering and get to witness high-level play. The memories can last a lifetime for young players.
Community Impact
Host committees made up of venue leaders, tourism officials and volunteers work tirelessly to create an exceptional experience for teams and fans.
The lacrosse community rallies around championship weekend with local support. Host cities take great pride in working together to deliver a first-class event.
The big crowds also allow for charitable initiatives organized around the Final Four. Fundraising and drives benefit various community causes and organizations.
Long after the nets get cut down, the community impact resonates for years through growth of the game, new facilities investments and inspired young athletes.
The NCAA Lacrosse Championships require a massive undertaking by the host. But cities and venues gladly do it for the significant rewards that come with being the epicenter of college lacrosse for a weekend.
Future NCAA Lacrosse Championship Locations
The NCAA Men’s and Women’s Lacrosse Championships rotate to different cities and venues each year. With lacrosse hotbeds spread out across the country, the NCAA aims to move the marquee event around to various locations.
The men’s and women’s Final Fours do not have to be hosted in the same city or venue. The NCAA awards hosting rights through a bid process years in advance so sites can properly prepare for the massive undertaking.
Here is a look at some of the future NCAA Lacrosse Championship sites already in the books along with potential contending cities.
2023 Championships
Next season, the Men’s Final Four will take place at Pratt & Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field in East Hartford, CT May 27 & 29. The same venue hosts the 2022 finals.
The Women’s Final Four is slated for Homewood Field on the campus of Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore on May 26 & 28. This marks a return to Baltimore after Towson hosts in 2022.
2024 Championships
The NCAA recently announced the 2024 lacrosse championship locations. The Men’s Final Four will head to M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore on May 25 & 27.
The Women’s Final Four is set for Arlotta Stadium in South Bend, Indiana on the campus of Notre Dame on May 24 & 26. This will be the first time NCAA women’s lacrosse holds its championship in the state of Indiana.
Future Contenders
Some of the typical rotation cities will likely bid on future NCAA Lacrosse Championships beyond 2024. Venues like Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Hofstra University on Long Island and Gillette Stadium in Foxboro have a proven track record of hosting.
The rapid growth of lacrosse across the country will open up new potential host cities as well. Places like Denver, Atlanta, San Diego, Dallas and Columbus are now viable candidates to submit bids.
Stadiums like Empower Field, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Snapdragon Stadium or Ohio Stadium could provide excellent Final Four atmospheres as lacrosse continues expanding into new regions.
The NCAA will aim to balance bringing the championships to traditional hotbeds and growing markets. Fans can expect new host cities to be in the mix as new world-class stadiums open.
Ideal Lacrosse Championship Sites
Based on past Final Four locales, some ideal criteria for future host sites include:
- Seating capacity of at least 8,000
- Top-notch amenities for teams, media and fans
- Proximity to major airports and sufficient lodging
- Experience hosting major events
- Strong local organizational committee
- Lacrosse fan interest in region
With the sport booming, more cities will develop plans and submit formal bids to the NCAA to bring the lacrosse spectacle to their community. It will be exciting to see new championship sites potentially on the horizon.