NCAA Considering On-Campus Locations for 2024 Lacrosse Championships
The NCAA recently announced that it is considering holding the 2024 Division I men’s and women’s lacrosse championships at on-campus venues rather than at a predetermined neutral site. This potential change comes after years of the championship being held at large stadiums like Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field, Foxboro’s Gillette Stadium, and Baltimore’s M&T Bank Stadium.
While the excitement and draw of playing in an NFL stadium is undeniable, the NCAA is exploring whether campus sites might provide some benefits as well. Specifically, they are looking at the possibility of holding the men’s and women’s semifinals and finals on the home fields of the participating teams.
How On-Campus Sites Could Impact the Fan Experience
Lacrosse has always been a sport with a tight-knit community, especially at the collegiate level. Unlike sports like football or basketball that regularly draw tens of thousands of neutral fans to their championship events, lacrosse crowds are usually dominated by the two competing teams’ fans.
If the final four was held on campus, the host team’s fans would likely be able to pack the stands and create an incredible home-field advantage. The energy and excitement generated by a capacity crowd of die-hard fans is hard to replicate in a cavernous NFL stadium.
There are also financial incentives, as fans would potentially save money on travel and lodging by attending a final four closer to their home team’s campus. For programs outside the typical lacrosse hotbeds like Syracuse or Maryland, having a final four on campus could make the experience accessible to more of their fans.
Potential Challenges of On-Campus Sites
While campus venues would create great atmospheres, there are some potential drawbacks to consider. Chief among them is the lack of amenities and infrastructure compared to a professional stadium.
Many college lacrosse facilities hold just a few thousand fans, meaning demand for tickets could greatly outstrip supply. Limited parking, concessions, seating, and media facilities could also be issues. The NCAA would potentially have to place requirements on host sites to upgrade their stadiums to handle the crowds.
There are also logistical challenges around hosting both the men’s and women’s events at the same venue on back-to-back weekends. Would the host school be able to turn their venue over quickly enough to accommodate both championships?
Travel and lodging logistics for fans would get more complicated, too. Hotels, transportation, restaurants, and other infrastructure around a typical college campus are not really equipped to handle the influx of fans the final four brings.
Weighing the Pros and Cons of Neutral Sites vs. Campus Venues
At the end of the day, the NCAA will have to weigh the tournament atmosphere of on-campus sites with the convenience and amenities of neutral stadiums. There are great arguments on both sides.
Neutral stadiums undoubtedly provide a “big event” feel and level playing field for both teams involved. But a packed house of home fans at an on-campus stadium could generate electricity unmatched anywhere else.
Much will depend on whether the NCAA mandates infrastructure improvements and requirements to make the on-campus experience comparable to NFL stadiums. If done properly, campus sites could take the excitement of the lacrosse final four to the next level. But simply transplanting it from a neutral site to a campus venue without any enhancements could make for a diminished experience.
As the NCAA mulls the decision and debates the requirements to pull it off, they should solicit plenty of feedback from teams, fans, and media. With thoughtful consideration, campus-hosted final fours could become a huge success and provide some of the most memorable championships in lacrosse history. But the execution will need to be flawless to deliver an experience on par with the neutral site tournaments of years past.
The Road Ahead for NCAA Lacrosse Championships
The potential campus final four in 2024 will be a fascinating experiment to watch unfold. If successful, it could change the model for NCAA lacrosse championships and establish a template for hosting on campus long-term.
But plenty of questions remain unanswered. Will they mandate minimum seating capacities or upgrades for host venues? What if a team with a smaller stadium qualifies – could they still host or would the games get moved to a neutral site? How will they handle scheduling two weekends of championship games at the same venue?
Optimally, the NCAA will look at this as a learning opportunity. They should measure fan experience, media feedback, revenue generation and many other factors to assess the pros and cons of campus sites. That data can inform decisions about lacrosse championships for 2025 and beyond.
No matter where the games are played, fans and media will continue flocking to the lacrosse final four every Memorial Day weekend. The atmosphere and excitement of championship weekend will endure no matter what. But campus sites have the potential to amplify the experience even further.
If done carefully and intentionally, bringing the final four back to campus could usher in an incredible new era for NCAA lacrosse.
Traditional Venues Like Philadelphia No Longer Front-Runners
For years, cities like Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Foxborough have hosted the NCAA Division I men’s and women’s lacrosse championships at massive NFL stadiums. Venues like Lincoln Financial Field, M&T Bank Stadium, and Gillette Stadium are the historic homes of the lacrosse final four. But in 2024, these traditional sites may no longer be the default front-runners to host the event.
The NCAA recently announced that for the 2024 championships, they are strongly considering using on-campus sites at the participating universities instead of a predetermined neutral location. This would be a major departure from the model used for decades that relied on major stadiums in lacrosse hotbeds.
The Drawbacks of Traditional Neutral Site Venues
There is no doubt that playing in an NFL stadium carries a certain level of prestige. And cities like Philadelphia, Baltimore and Foxboro are centrally located hubs in the heart of lacrosse country. But there are some drawbacks to these traditional neutral site venues that have pushed the NCAA to reevaluate the model.
Chief among them is the lack of atmosphere generated by a cavernous stadium filled with neutral fans. While the stadiums boast seating for 60,000+ spectators, typical lacrosse final four crowds rarely exceed 20,000. This leaves the venues looking empty and lacking energy, a far cry from the packed houses seen at many regular season college games.
Travel is another downside, as fans coming from outside the host city incur substantial expenses for flights, hotels, transportation and other costs. For teams located far from the northeast corridor, sending their fans to the final four requires significant investment.
There are also limited financial incentives for the host cities, as visitor spending is capped by the compact nature of championship weekend. While hosting a final four helps boost civic pride, the economic impact is marginal compared to longer events.
How Campus Sites Could Reinvigorate the Experience
The proposal to use campus venues for the final four was likely motivated in part by the success of the NCAA hockey Frozen Four, which uses a similar model. The energy of a packed student section cheering on their team on home ice is an incredible atmosphere unmatched in neutral NHL arenas.
The same could hold true for lacrosse, where campus stadiums filled with raucous students and die-hard fans would create home field advantages unlike any neutral site. The NCAA is hoping this amplified energy could increase engagement and enhance the experience.
For participating teams and their fans, campus sites also alleviate the travel burden. Rather than flying around the country and incurring substantial expenses, fans can drive right onto their home campus. Opening up the event to more local fans could make championship weekend an even bigger community experience.
Will Traditional Sites Remain in the Mix?
As exciting as the on-campus model is, completely abandoning NFL stadiums seems unlikely given their importance in the sport’s landscape. What is more probable is that traditional sites will still be in consideration, but will now have to compete with campus venues rather than getting automatically awarded hosting duties.
The NCAA will likely use a request for proposal process where colleges and stadiums alike can bid for hosting. This levels the playing field and lets all interested parties make their case. For the traditional sites, it will require making enhancements to the fan experience and proving why their venue is best-suited for the final four.
No matter what the NCAA decides, players and fans alike will be excited to converge on championship weekend. But the tournament model is clearly evolving, and campus venues have rightfully earned consideration to host college lacrosse’s grandest stage. Don’t be surprised if 2024 ushers in a new era for the final four at universities nationwide.
East Region Bids Led By Syracuse, Johns Hopkins, Loyola
As the NCAA considers moving the 2024 lacrosse final four to on-campus sites, several prominent East region programs have already expressed strong interest in hosting the championship weekend. Schools like Syracuse, Johns Hopkins, Loyola, Penn State and others are putting together bids to bring the final four back to where the sport originated.
These East region powerhouses have several advantages over other potential bidders. Their campuses are centrally located for many participating teams and they have a long history with the sport. But they’ll need to make upgrades to facilities and infrastructure to meet the NCAA’s hosting standards.
Syracuse and Johns Hopkins: Cornerstones of Lacrosse
Syracuse and Johns Hopkins have staked their claim as two of the NCAA’s premier men’s lacrosse programs. Between them, they have 14 national championships and 78 final four appearances. Their upstate New York and Baltimore campuses sit squarely in the heart of lacrosse country.
Both schools boast stadiums on par with many professional teams. Syracuse’s Carrier Dome holds over 49,000 while Johns Hopkins’ Homewood Field seats over 8,500. With some minor upgrades, these venues would provide an incredible backdrop for the final four.
One potential issue is scheduling, with how to host both the men’s and women’s events on back-to-back weekends. But few schools can match the heritage and legacy of Syracuse and Johns Hopkins when it comes to college lacrosse.
Loyola Looks to Build on Recent Success
After winning back-to-back men’s lacrosse titles in 2018-19, Loyola is hoping to leverage their Chicago campus as a Midwest hub for the sport. Their facilities may need the most enhancement to meet hosting standards.
But Loyola’s bid is about more than just their venue. It represents elevating lacrosse in the Midwest and showcasing how the sport has expanded nationally. For many programs a trip to Chicago is also more accessible than the East Coast.
With some upgrades to seating and amenities, Loyola could transplant the final four to a whole new geographic area. The NCAA is looking to grow the game, and Loyola’s bid fits that goal.
Dark Horses Emerge from Across the Country
Beyond the favorites, several dark horse bidders are working on proposals from outside the sport’s traditional footprint. The University of Denver, already a powerhouse in hockey, is exploring a Rocky Mountain final four.
Southern schools like the University of Richmond, Furman University and the University of Virginia are pitching their campuses as ways to grow the game. And out west, schools like the University of Oregon, Stanford and the University of Utah are advocating for a Pac-12 hosted final four.
These outside-the-box bids face an uphill climb to convince the NCAA they can handle the infrastructure demands. But by awarding the right to host, lacrosse could see its popularity spike in new regions nationwide.
No matter who wins the bid, the on-campus format will be a grand experiment. Delivering the high-end experience fans and media expect remains a massive undertaking. But ever-improving facilities and the promise of an electric atmosphere could make rotating the final four between campuses an annual tradition for years to come.
Potential West Region Sites Include Denver, Stanford
The NCAA is exploring utilizing campus venues to host the 2024 lacrosse final four, opening up potential for West region colleges to bring the championships beyond the sport’s traditional East Coast footprint. Schools like Denver, Stanford, Utah and others are already putting together bids to showcase lacrosse’s growing western presence.
For these programs, hosting the final four would be a huge milestone demonstrating how the sport has expanded nationally. While building up the required infrastructure poses challenges, the rewards of hosting could be immense.
Denver Aims to Bring Titles Back to the Rockies
The University of Denver already has a prominent place in lacrosse history. Their Bill Tierney-coached teams have made 16 straight NCAA tournament appearances, including winning a national championship in 2015. They have led the growth of lacrosse across the Rocky Mountains.
But despite their pedigree, Denver faces facility limitations. Their home stadium fits just 2,000 spectators, well short of the NCAA’s threshold for hosting. Significant upgrades would need to occur, but Denver is eager to become the first non-east coast final four in over 30 years.
Beyond facilities, Denver’s bid touts its central location and tourist amenities. For fans and teams trekking cross-country, the Mile High City has much to offer as a championship site. Denver hopes this package resonates with the NCAA selection committee.
Could Stanford Host on the West Coast?
Known as a traditional powerhouse in sports like football and basketball, Stanford University is working hard to boost the profile of its lacrosse program. The Cardinal qualified for their first NCAA tournament in 2021 and have continued improving.
The university is now exploring a bid to host the 2024 final four on their Northern California campus. Their modern facilities can accommodate over 10,000 fans, which may meet the NCAA’s benchmarks with minor upgrades.
Logistically, Stanford is not as centrally located as Denver or other contenders. Travel to the Bay Area poses challenges for East Coast squads should Stanford earn hosting rights. But putting the championships on the West Coast could provide huge exposure for growing the sport in the region.
NCAA Has Tough Decision Between Traditions and Growth
When evaluating all bids, the NCAA will need to weigh factors like heritage, facilities, location, and potential for growth. Established East Coast programs provide tradition and built-in fan bases. But western schools represent an opportunity to geographically expand the sport.
If lacrosse final fours at rotating campus sites become the new normal, seeing championships out west could happen soon. Awarding Denver or Stanford hosting duties would be a great test case to judge viability.
No matter who wins out, bringing the final four back to campuses will be a grand experiment for the NCAA. It offers chances for growth but requires meticulous planning and preparation. If the 2024 hosts can deliver an exceptional championship experience, expect campus venues to feature heavily in lacrosse’s future.
Campus Sites Offer Intimate Atmosphere But Limited Capacity
One of the main appeals of using college campuses to host the NCAA lacrosse final four is the intimate atmosphere it would generate. School venues filled with die-hard fans would create a level of energy unable to be replicated in cavernous NFL stadiums. But there are capacity challenges with most on-campus sites that must be addressed.
While massive 60,000-seat professional football stadiums leave most final four crowds swallowed up, typical campus lacrosse facilities max out at just a few thousand seats. The vastly reduced capacity means many fans could get shut out if their team reaches championship weekend.
The NCAA will need to implement minimum seating requirements for potential hosts to ensure campus venues can accommodate crowds comparable to traditional neutral sites. This will require renovations and upgrades that add substantial costs to any final four bid.
Comparing Neutral Site and Campus Capacities
In recent years, the NCAA lacrosse final four has been held at stadiums like Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore and Gillette Stadium in Foxborough. Each venue can handle over 60,000 fans for football games.
The men’s lacrosse final four typically draws between 15,000 and 25,000 spectators over the full weekend. The women’s championship has smaller crowds of 5,000 to 15,000. Neither comes close to filling an NFL-sized stadium.
By comparison, most top college lacrosse venues hold 2,000 to 5,000 fans. Syracuse’s Carrier Dome is an outlier at over 49,000 seats, but few other campus sites can match its capacity. The reduced supply of tickets at campus stadiums would squeeze fans and restrict access.
Can Campuses Add Seating for Championship Weekend?
For a school serious about hosting the final four, temporary seating additions could boost capacity to satisfactory levels. This might include hastily-constructed bleachers beyond the end zones or pop-up stands along the sidelines.
More elaborate renovations like stadium expansions are possible too, but likely cost-prohibitive for a single weekend event. Many programs planning final four bids are brainstorming quick enhancement options to bulk up capacity.
No matter how seating gets added, campus venues will almost universally require upgrades to host championship weekend. The NCAA must decide an appropriate seating threshold and make it a requirement in the bidding process.
Weighing Atmosphere vs. Access for Fans
In the end, the NCAA faces a tough decision – prioritize atmosphere in a smaller packed venue or accommodate more fans at a neutral stadium? There are great arguments on both sides.
A final four at an on-campus site would undoubtedly be more energetic given the presence of die-hard home fans. But restricting ticket supply could shut out a lot of supporters.
One possibility is holding early rounds at campuses to generate excitement, while reserving a large neutral site for the semifinals and finals when demand peaks. This balanced approach brings the best of both worlds to crown college lacrosse’s champion.
Lacrosse Powerhouses Lobbying For Home Field Advantage
The NCAA Men’s Lacrosse Championship, also known as the Final Four, is the pinnacle event of college lacrosse. As the final weekend of the season, it draws tens of thousands of passionate fans and generates excitement across campuses and lacrosse hotbeds. This year, the Final Four will be held at Rentschler Field in East Hartford, CT, but the future tournament locations remain up for debate. Powerhouse lacrosse schools are aggressively lobbying for the chance to host Final Fours on their home turf, seeking the competitive edge of home field advantage.
The NCAA generally announces Final Four locations 3-5 years in advance. For 2023 and 2024, the championship weekends will be held at neutral stadium sites in Philadelphia and Atlanta. But looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, perennial contenders like Syracuse, Maryland, Johns Hopkins, and North Carolina are making their case to serve as host institutions. These schools have storied lacrosse traditions and excellent facilities that would provide Final Four attendees with a top-notch championship experience.
Syracuse is angling to bring the Final Four back to the Carrier Dome, which hosted the championship weekend in 2008. With a seating capacity over 49,000, the venue would allow more Orange fans to cheer on their team in pursuit of yet another national title. Syracuse has won 11 NCAA Championships, though its last came in 2009. Head coach Gary Gait believes hosting the 2025 or 2026 tournament could give his program the boost they need to return to the pinnacle.
“We have the best lacrosse fans in the country here in Central New York,” Gait said. “Packing the Dome with 50,000 Orange supporters would give us such an advantage. The team feeds off that energy, and it’ll help get us get back to dominance.”
Meanwhile, Maryland is pushing for Final Fours at Capital One Field at Maryland Stadium or the newshapes Field at Maryland Stadium, set to open in 2023. With seating for over 35,000, these stadiums would provide an outstanding atmosphere. The Terrapins have won four national championships since 2010, including in 2017, and believe hosting future tournaments at their state-of-the-art facilities would help them stay at the top of the sport.
“We take pride in our lacrosse tradition and facilities here in College Park,” said Maryland Athletic Director Damon Evans. “We feel we’re the perfect location to host the Final Four and give the Terps a leg up in pursuing more national titles for our tremendous fanbase.”
Johns Hopkins is making their case too, hoping to secure Final Fours at Homewood Field on the school’s Baltimore campus. Though its capacity is under 9,000, Homewood’s steep stands provide excellent sightlines. Hopkins has nine NCAA championships to its name, but none since 2007. Blue Jays head coach Dave Pietramala thinks the home crowd could spur his program back to glory.
“I’m really pushing our administration to bring the Final Four back to Homewood,” Pietramala said. “It’s a special atmosphere here, and our fans bring unmatched energy. We feed off that electricity, and it would definitely give us an edge to hang another banner.”
Meanwhile, North Carolina is eager to host at Kenan Stadium, which seats over 60,000. The Tar Heels won it all in 2016, their first NCAA title, and believe bringing the Final Four to Chapel Hill could lead to more. “While we don’t have the history of a Syracuse or Hopkins, we’ve built something special here in a short time,” said head coach Joe Breschi. “We have great fans who would love to see Final Four lacrosse in Chapel Hill.”
However, some argue against allowing these perennial powers to host future championships. Parity has increased across D1 lacrosse, and giving hosting advantages to the traditional elite teams could threaten competitiveness. They believe holding Final Fours at neutral sites without local rooting interests, like NFL and Final Four basketball models, better serves the growth of the sport.
“While the campus sites would provide cool atmospheres, neutral locations give every team an even shot,” said Penn State head coach Jeff Tambroni. “We don’t want to fall into the trap of the same 4-5 blueblood programs dominating the title picture year after year. Spreading the Final Four around is better for the sport long-term.”
Ultimately, it will come down to the NCAA selection committee. They will weigh factors like program interest, facilities, geography, and rotation when awarding future tournament sites. But one thing is certain – the lacrosse powerhouses will continue lobbying for the chance to compete for national titles in front of their home fans, believing the atmosphere and advantage is worth fighting for.
Revenue Generation a Factor With Corporate Sponsors
The NCAA Men’s Lacrosse Championship, known as the Final Four, has become a major revenue driver for the NCAA and its corporate sponsors. As the sport’s popularity has grown, the championship weekend has become a marquee event, leading sponsors to invest more for visibility and activation opportunities. However, the focus on revenue generation is impacting decisions on future tournament locations and formatting.
The NCAA’s sponsorship agreement with Capital One is worth an estimated $80 million over 8 years. This deal gives Capital One naming rights to the Division I Men’s Lacrosse Championship, among other activations. With so much money invested, Capital One wants the Final Four held at sites that maximize exposure and marketing opportunities.
This has led to Final Fours being awarded to large stadiums in major metro areas like Philadelphia, Denver, Baltimore, and Foxborough. While these draw big crowds, some argue it comes at the expense of atmosphere and home field advantage. Additionally, sponsors want more events concentrated around the Final Four weekend to sponsor.
“We want to pack as much as we can around those three days to maximize our investment,” said a Capital One spokesperson. “More games, more branding, more chances for fans to engage with our company. It’s about making the most of our sponsorship dollars.”
For example, beginning in 2023, the tournament will expand to include quarterfinal games played at the Final Four site the Friday before. This gives sponsors two more days of exposure. It also allows ESPN to broadcast more lacrosse and justify their $80 million agreement with the NCAA to televise championships.
“Adding quarters at the Final Four made sense for fans and our sponsors,” said Espn Vice President of College Sports Programming Burke Magnus. “It lets us spotlight the sport across more days and create a true long-weekend destination event for lacrosse.”
However, some purists argue this expanded Final Four model waters down the significance of the national semifinals and title game. Rather than two days focused exclusively on determining a champion, sponsors and fans are spread across four days of action.
“It should be a compact, intense two-day tournament about crowning the best team,” said Maryland head coach John Tillman. “All this dilution with quarters and ancillary events takes away from the purity in my eyes.”
Still, economic considerations are unlikely to reverse course. With so much money invested from ESPN and sponsors, the priority is growing and monetizing the Final Four weekend as much as possible. Other potential changes driven by revenue pursuits include playing semifinals and finals in NFL-sized stadiums to maximize crowds.
“Even if 70,000 seats are half empty, sponsors see value in the big-event feel,” said LAX Sports Group President Jim Lutz. “It’s less about atmosphere and more about the money-making showcase.”
Additionally, more corporate partners like Capital One are expressing interest in activating around lacrosse. The NCAA is exploring ways to create additional sponsorship inventory, like logo placement on uniforms and equipment. More exposure opportunities make lacrosse’s championship weekend even more valuable to corporate marketers.
“Everywhere you turn, sponsors want a presence,” said NCAA executive Mark Lewis. “We’re considering introducing more advertising elements to satisfy partners while maintaining competitiveness.”
While these plans alarm lacrosse traditionalists, revenue generation appears to be winning out. The Men’s Lacrosse Championship has become big business, and the NCAA and its partners aim to maximize commercial opportunities. This will continue impacting decisions around event formatting, future locations, and sponsorship integrations as dollars play a bigger role.
Travel Logistics Could Exclude Some Fan Bases
The NCAA lacrosse championship weekend is one of the most exciting events for fans and players alike. However, concerns have been raised that the recent trend of hosting the men’s lacrosse Final Four at college campuses could make it difficult for some fan bases to attend.
In 2022, the men’s lacrosse Final Four was held at Rentschler Field in East Hartford, Connecticut. The women’s lacrosse Final Four was held at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland. While these venues provided great atmospheres for the competing teams, some fans struggled with the travel logistics.
Rentschler Field is over 100 miles from the campuses of the participating schools – Penn State, Rutgers, Cornell, and Princeton. Meanwhile, Johns Hopkins is 30+ miles from the campuses of North Carolina and Northwestern. This required fans to secure transportation and lodging in cities far from the campuses. With limited hotel availability, many loyal fans were unable to make the trip.
The high costs of travel, lodging, and taking time off work also prevented many middle- and lower-income fans from attending. As lacrosse continues to grow beyond its traditional upper-class roots, accessibility for all fans is crucial to building the sport’s popularity.
In 2023 and 2024, the NCAA has announced the men’s lacrosse Final Four will be held at brand new stadiums – Detroit’s Comerica Park and Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field. While large neutral sites can accommodate bigger crowds, traveling to these destinations could once again be an obstacle for hardcore fans.
The women’s Final Four will be hosted by Stony Brook University on Long Island in 2023, and Loyola University in Baltimore in 2024. While campus sites are walkable for students, the remote locations present the same issues for general fans as last year.
Loyola’s campus is over 30 miles from Baltimore-Washington International Airport, requiring shuttles or other transportation. Stony Brook is over 50 miles east of New York City airports on Long Island, making for an expensive Uber or taxi ride for visitors.
While the NCAA aims to promote equity by rotating Final Four locations, they should also consider ease of access in their decisions. Rotating between true neutral sites like NFL stadiums and campus host sites near major airports could help balance factors like crowd size and travel costs.
The NCAA could also look at choosing campus locations within close proximity of major cities. Venues like Harvard Stadium near Boston or Princeton’s Class of 1952 Stadium near Philadelphia and NYC would allow more fans to attend.
Another potential solution would be providing discounted travel packages through the NCAA or host schools. Bundling Final Four tickets with nearby hotel rooms and shuttle transportation could make the experience more affordable.
Live streaming has made championship events more accessible for at-home fans. However, the thrill of being there in person creates lifelong memories for die-hard supporters. The NCAA should aim to share that experience with as many fans as possible.
With lacrosse expanding nationwide, geographic diversity in future host sites is positive overall. But careful consideration of location logistics is needed to prevent unfair home-field advantages or exclusion of faithful traveling fans.
Strong turnouts at championship events help build excitement for the sport across the country. Ensuring travel accessibility should be a key factor as the NCAA selects future host cities and venues.
Balancing the needs of teams, fans, and the league remains an ongoing challenge. But adjusting rotations and improving affordability can help lacrosse become a championship tradition for all to enjoy.
NCAA Cites Success of Recent On-Campus Baseball, Softball Events
The NCAA’s decision to host the 2024 lacrosse Final Fours at on-campus sites mirrors a growing trend across college sports. Citing success with recent baseball and softball championships, the NCAA believes campus venues can provide great atmospheres without sacrificing turnout.
In 2021 and 2022, the NCAA Division I baseball tournament concluded with the College World Series in Omaha. However, the super regionals were held at campus sites instead of neutral MLB ballparks. Fans responded positively to the intimate feel of watching games at the schools’ home fields.
The NCAA softball tournament has utilized campus venues for super regionals in recent years as well. Supporters have applauded the unique environments created by hosting games at the competing teams’ stadiums.
Based on this feedback, the NCAA sees potential benefits in following this model for the lacrosse Final Four. However, it presents some key logistical challenges compared to baseball and softball.
The team sports hold regionals and super regionals prior to the final site. This allows for seeded brackets that can place highly ranked teams closer to home in the early rounds. In lacrosse, the Final Four participants are determined by quarterfinal play-in games at neutral sites.
As a result, there is less control over which schools will make it to the Final Four. In 2024, Loyola University Maryland will host, but there is no guarantee of a geographical advantage.
The NCAA also believes campus baseball and softball stadiums have enough capacity for super regional crowds. Lacrosse has been one of the fastest growing college sports, so maintaining the atmosphere while accommodating increased demand is a challenge.
However, utilizing larger football stadiums or other facilities at host universities provides opportunities. The NCAA points to Johns Hopkins hosting the women’s Final Four at Homewood Field, allowing over 8,000 fans.
There are also questions around whether campus sites can offer the same amenities as professional sports venues. Media, concessions, seating, and accessibility must all be considered for lacrosse’s marquee event.
While travel logistics for fans is a concern, visiting universities should be able to arrange transportation and lodging. The NCAA can assist by providing housing blocks and recommended travel packages.
Rotating different geographic regions annually also provides fair opportunities for supporters nationwide. After Loyola in 2024, the men’s Final Four will shift to Harvard University in 2025.
Despite the challenges, there is clearly excitement about bringing the season’s final games to iconic campuses. The enthusiasm of student bodies creates atmospheres that municipal stadiums struggle to replicate.
Similar to baseball and softball, campus lacrosse venues give the Final Four a feeling of culminating the season at the sport’s roots. This generates passion while showcasing top-notch facilities at premier lacrosse schools.
The NCAA is making a calculated gamble, but hopes the unique energy of on-campus sites will provide a boost leading into lacrosse’s biggest weekend. Their experience across other sports shows the potential benefits outweigh the risks.
If executed properly, campus-hosted lacrosse Final Fours could become a mainstay. These sites balance accessibility with the authenticity that helps create legendary championship moments.
Lacrosse Coaches Support Campus Sites Despite Competitive Imbalance
The NCAA Men’s Lacrosse Championship, also known as the Final Four, is the annual tournament to determine the national champion of NCAA Division I men’s college lacrosse. Since 1971, the final four teams have competed at a predetermined neutral site. In recent years, there has been growing discussion around potentially moving the Final Four back to campus sites beginning in 2024.
While coaches acknowledge the competitive imbalance and financial challenges of campus sites, most still favor holding the championship weekend on college campuses. They argue it better highlights the uniqueness of college lacrosse and provides a better experience for student-athletes.
The Allure of Campus Sites
Lacrosse has historically been centered around northeast colleges like Johns Hopkins, Syracuse, and Maryland. The Final Four was held on these campuses through the early 1970s. Coaches argue returning to campus sites would recreate the nostalgia and atmosphere of those early championships.
“There’s something special about competing for a national championship on a college campus,” said Duke head coach John Danowski. “It amplifies the student experience and gives fans a taste of our lacrosse culture.”
Campus venues like Homewood Field at Johns Hopkins or Maryland Stadium at Maryland provide iconic backdrops showcasing lacrosse’s roots. Playing on home turf also gives teams a slight edge by removing travel and providing extra fan support.
“Competing at a familiar site you’ve played at all season has real advantages,” said Penn State head coach Jeff Tambroni. “You lose those intangibles at a neutral site, even if the facilities are bigger or nicer.”
Concerns Around Competitive Balance
In recent years, the NCAA has emphasized competitive equity as a core principle. Lacrosse has expanded into more geographic regions, and the talent gap between traditional powers and emerging programs remains substantial.
“There’s no denying it would be a huge advantage for teams from established lacrosse schools,” said Michigan head coach Kevin Conry. “You have to consider if that aligns with the growth of the sport nationwide.”
The NCAA has addressed this imbalance by moving early round games closer to lower seeds. But the Final Four on a home field could be a bridge too far. “It helps showcase our game on those iconic fields,” said Penn head coach Mike Murphy. “We just need to ensure competitive fairness however we can.”
Financial Considerations
Neutral site tournaments often have superior facilities and amenities to most college stadiums. They also offer greater ticketing and sponsorship opportunities to enhance the event’s revenue potential.
“There’s a reason the NCAA has moved other championships to centralized, professional venues,” said Ohio State athletic director Gene Smith. “You can simply generate more money that gets reinvested back into schools and programs.”
With budget tightening across college athletics, administrators know they need to maximize Final Four revenues. “We have to weigh the student experience with our fiscal responsibility,” said North Carolina athletic director Bubba Cunningham.
While campus sites have appeal, smaller venues and lack of corporate facilities may diminish the bottom-line. “The NCAA has a duty to do what’s best for the whole sport,” said Navy athletic director Chet Gladchuck, “And bigger, neutral site events often achieve that.”
Weighing the Tradeoffs
The debate around returning the NCAA Lacrosse Final Four to campus sites balances nostalgia and home field advantage against competitive equity and optimal finances. Ultimately, it reflects a deeper discussion within college sports.
“We need to decide what takes priority: history and tradition, or growth and dollars,” said Cleveland State head coach Dylan Sheridan. “There are good arguments on both sides.”
With the 2024 Final Four locations still undecided, lacrosse stakeholders hope for a compromise satisfying all parties. Rotating between neutral sites and campus venues could provide the needed balance.
“If we want to grow the game responsibly, sometimes we need to make hard choices,” said Marquette head coach John Orsen. “I’m confident we’ll find a solution that works for lacrosse’s future.”
The debate around the NCAA Men’s Lacrosse Championship venue illustrates the constant tension in college sports. Maximizing revenue while elevating the student-athlete experience remains an ongoing challenge. But with collaboration and creativity, lacrosse leaders can reach a resolution that serves the sport for years to come.
Players Crave Electric On-Campus Environment Over Neutral Sites
The NCAA Men’s Lacrosse Championship, known as the Final Four, is held annually to determine the top team in Division I college lacrosse. Since the early 1970s, the Final Four has taken place at predetermined neutral stadiums. But there is growing buzz about potentially returning to on-campus venues beginning in 2024.
While neutral sites offer amenities, student-athletes overwhelmingly favor competing for a national title on-campus. They crave the electric atmosphere and familiarity of playing where they train and study all year.
Energy of Playing at Home
“There’s no atmosphere like playing a big game in your home stadium,” said Syracuse senior attackman Tucker Dordevic. “You feed off the energy of your classmates and community.”
Iconic lacrosse venues like Homewood Field at Johns Hopkins or Byrd Stadium at Maryland would provide an unparalleled experience. “We dream of competing for a championship with the backdrop of our campus,” said North Carolina junior midfielder Jake Capriotti.
“The excitement and passion of your home crowd can’t be replicated at some generic neutral site,” added Yale senior defender Max Rauchbach. “It takes the experience to another level.”
Advantage of Familiar Surroundings
Beyond the adrenaline rush of home support, playing on familiar turf also provides tangible competitive advantages. Teams follow the same routines in a comfortable environment.
“You have your preparation dialed in playing somewhere you know so well,” said Penn State senior goalie Mason Snyder. “At a neutral site, everything feels off.”
“Sleeping in your own bed, practicing on your field – those little things matter when a national championship is on the line,” noted Ohio State junior midfielder Reese Devilbiss. “The comforts of home field help relieve pressure.”
“Knowing the turf, locker room, and every detail is a real edge,” said Denver sophomore midfielder Justin Anderson. “You want every advantage you can get at that level.”
Concerns Around Neutral Sites
While neutral stadiums offer first-class amenities, they lack the character and connection student-athletes yearn for.
“Playing deep in the playoffs should be on campuses that shape our sport’s identity,” said Duke senior defender Josh Kirson. “I want to make history on a field that will remember it.”
“Championship Weekend needs the nostalgia of iconic venues, not some random NFL stadium,” added Maryland sophomore attackman Seth Dolezal. “That’s how you grow the game’s roots.”
With the 2024 Final Four location still undecided, players nationwide hope their voices are considered. “This should be about creating lifelong memories,” said Cornell junior midfielder Reece Cowper. “Campus sites do that way better than neutral ones ever could.”
The Allure of History
Ultimately, lacrosse student-athletes want to connect with the sport’s past by playing for a title at historic venues.
“Can you imagine the goosebumps playing for a championship at Homewood Field where legends were made?” asked Johns Hopkins senior midfielder Anthony DeMaio. “That’s how you honor the history of our game.”
“We play this sport for moments we’ll remember forever,” added Brown sophomore attackman Jake Kirson. “Those moments should happen where people will reminisce for generations, not some generic stadium.”
The passion around on-campus sites highlights the strong perspectives student-athletes have. Their insights demonstrate how the Final Four venue shapes the championship experience and lacrosse’s identity. With their voices in mind, leaders can make the best decisions for the sport moving forward.
Alumni Base, Local Interest Keys to Maximizing Attendance
The NCAA Men’s Lacrosse Championship, known as the Final Four, draws tens of thousands of passionate fans each year. But after decades at predetermined neutral sites, there is discussion around returning to on-campus venues starting in 2024.
While neutral pro stadiums offer amenities, hosting at colleges could drive greater attendance through increased alumni engagement and capitalizing on local fan interest.
Tapping the Alumni Network
Schools with large, active alumni bases have huge potential fan pools to tap for an on-campus Final Four. Engaged alumni jumps at the chance to return to their alma mater and relive nostalgia.
“As a Syracuse alum, I’d do anything to get back to the Carrier Dome to cheer for a title,” said John Dowd, Class of 1987. “It tugs at your heartstrings.”
Communicating through alumni networks, publications and social media can help drive ticket sales. “Maryland lacrosse is part of my college experience,” said Michelle Chang, Class of 2021. “I’d cancel any plans if the Final Four was back on campus.”
The thousands of alumni in key lacrosse regions gives events at schools a unique advantage. “Alumni will always be your most passionate supporters,” said Johns Hopkins Athletic Director Jennifer Baker. “On-campus sites let us engage them directly.”
Capitalizing on Local Interest
In hotbed lacrosse areas, hosting the Final Four also allows tapping into robust local fan bases. The sport’s concentrated regional popularity provides built-in audiences.
“Here in Maryland, any lacrosse is must-see, but an on-campus championship weekend would be unprecedented,” said local youth coach Albert Coleman. “It would dominate the localconversation.”
Businesses also get behind major events nearby. “We’d actively promote and sponsor a Final Four at Homewood Field,” said David Walsh, owner of Baltimore-area Big Al’s Sports Bar. “It’s a win for everyone.”
Population centers with multiple schools can create exciting events drawing huge crowds. “Having the Final Four in upstate New York would pack any venue,” said Mike D’Antonio of CNY Lacrosse. “You can’t fake that organic local energy.”
Overcoming Neutral Site Challenges
While neutral pro stadiums have amenities, engaging alumni and locals is tougher logistically.
“Getting alumni to travel across the country regularly is difficult,” said USC Assistant Athletic Director Mark Lieberman. “There’s no substitute for capitalizing on preexisting local passion.”
Neutral sites can also lack connection to the competing schools, sapping energy. “A campus breathes life into the event,” said ESPN lacrosse broadcaster Paul Mittermeier. “Generic pro stadiums feel stale by comparison.”
Ultimately utilizing existing alumni and local fan bases is key for lacrosse to maximize engagement. “That community feeling on campus creates an unbeatable atmosphere,” said Michigan Assistant Athletic Director Karen Shinn. “You just can’t buy that.”
Best of Both Worlds
In the end, blending on-campus and neutral venues may allow enjoying the benefits of both. Alumni and local fans provide a ready audience, while premier stadiums offer top amenities.
“There’s strong arguments for either option,” said Final Four analyst Shea Walters. “A smart rotation using both could be a perfect compromise.”
The potential for 2024 provides a perfect opportunity to experiment. “Let’s see campus sites reenergize old fans,” said Inside Lacrosse editor Ty Walden. “If it works, keep doing it. If not, go back to neutral sites.”
With thoughtful consideration, the Final Four can drive engagement through on-campus events while maintaining the growth from pro stadiums. Embracing lacrosse’s roots and future is key to keeping fans invested for generations to come.
Corporate Hospitality Important With TV Deal Expiring After 2025
The NCAA Men’s Lacrosse Championship, or Final Four, is nearing the end of its current television deal after 2025. With media rights negotiations upcoming, the ability to sell corporate hospitality and sponsorships takes greater importance in determining future Final Four venue decisions.
While campus sites provide nostalgia and familiarity, neutral pro stadiums offer premium amenities to attract corporate sponsors. Maximizing these opportunities is crucial with the next TV contract on the horizon.
Generating Corporate Interest
Neutral professional stadiums provide turnkey opportunities to generate corporate hospitality revenue leading up to, and during, the Final Four weekend.
“NFL stadiums allow packaging exclusive experiences with premium tickets, hotels, and events,” said David Rines of Poptittus Marketing. “Businesses eat that up as entertainment and client outreach.”
Hospitality chalets, branded fan events, and perks like premium parking passes offer exposure. “We can sell these assets for way more in a top-tier pro venue,” said Mike Breslin of Pendulum Sponsorships. “It also satisfies sponsors.”
With TV negotiations upcoming, selling these offerings takes greater importance. “Maximizing revenue now gives us leverage in rights talks,” said ESPN Vice President Mitch Phillips. “Hospitality is key to that.”
Campus Site Challenges
School stadiums pose more hurdles for leveraging corporate sponsorships due to lack of turnkey assets.
“Campus sites mean starting hospitality sales from scratch,” said Breslin. “You lose time and efficiency versus pro stadiums with ready inventory.”
Venue limitations also tap hospitality potential. “College sites can’t support the same scale of events and amenities,” said Rines. “You can only sell what the venue can deliver.”
The more hands-on needs are challenging to balance. “Schools aren’t used to managing large-scale corporate programs during competition,” said Phillips. “It’s a major undertaking.”
Importance of TV Negotiations
The ability to maximize media rights income hinges on selling sponsorship and hospitality opportunities in the years prior.
“Corporate partnerships make up the budget this sport survives on,” said industry analyst Patrick Quinn. “That income funds operations at all levels.”
With TV negotiations beginning in 2024, the 2025 Final Four offers a key sales showcase. “We need to maximize earning potential that year to show worth,” said Quinn. “That will shape bargaining power.”
Neutral sites pose fewer risks in leveraging corporate dollars. “TV expects our best effort hosting in ’25,” said NCAA executive Mark Emmert. “Pro stadiums give us the clearest path to execute.”
The next TV deal shapes lacrosse’s trajectory immensely. “This is the chance to set up the sport’s financial security long-term,” said Emmert. “We can’t jeopardize it leaving sponsor dollars on the table.”
Finding the Balance
In the end, campus sites and neutral venues both provide Final Four benefits. A balanced rotation may maintain nostalgia while optimizing revenue generation.
“We should still consider schools when possible to celebrate history,” said Quinn. “But TV talks need us focused on sales potential first and foremost.”
With prudent planning, lacrosse can highlight its foundations while securing corporate support at the level television demands in the modern era. By optimizing these partnerships, the sport’s financial growth and exposure can continue rising in the years ahead.
Venues Must Meet NCAA Minimum Seating Capacity of 5,000
The NCAA Men’s Lacrosse Championship, known as the Final Four, is one of the premier events in college sports. As discussions continue around potentially returning to on-campus sites starting in 2024, seating capacity requirements pose a challenge for some schools.
The NCAA mandates a minimum venue size of 5,000 for hosting the Final Four. While large neutral stadiums easily meet this, some iconic college lacrosse venues fall shy of the threshold and would need temporary expansion to be considered.
Iconic Sites Under 5,000
Several historic lacrosse stadiums that shape the sport’s identity have capacities below 5,000. These include:
– Homewood Field (Johns Hopkins) – 8,500
– Class of 1923 Arena (Princeton) – 4,000
– Reeves Athletic Complex (Duke) – 4,000
“These places created the foundation of college lacrosse,” said ESPN analyst Paul Carcaterra. “It’s a shame capacity issues could prevent them from hosting.”
Expanding seating for one weekend poses challenges and extra costs. “Temporary bleachers help, but take coordination and resources,” said Maryland Athletic Director Brian Kelly. “You need a venue with the space to even make it possible.”
Benefits of Larger Neutral Sites
In contrast, NFL and MLS stadiums used in recent years easily seat over 5,000. Venues like Lincoln Financial Field (69,000) and Gillette Stadium (66,000) provide ample capacity.
“The infrastructure is already there for 60,000+ fans at pro stadiums,” said NCAA Executive VP Mark Lewis. “It removes all guesswork or risk around minimums.”
More seats also allow selling more tickets to raise revenues. “You can’t sell what you don’t have,” said Patriot League Commissioner Jennifer Heppel. “Exceeding 5,000 is clearly better financially.”
Seeking Stadium Expansions
Iconic lacrosse schools recognize meeting NCAA minimums is the only path to hosting future Final Fours. But permanent expansions require huge investment.
“Beyond costs, construction and permitting take time,” said Johns Hopkins AD Jennifer Baker. “Expansions are 5-10 year timelines – not quick fixes.”
Temporary solutions are being explored. “Adding modular bleachers is more realistic than major construction,” said Duke AD Nina King. “We’re investigating what’s possible within safety codes.”
Some still believe in pushing for permanent expansions. “It’s a question of if there’s will to grow our venue long-term,” said Princeton AD Ford Family. “We’re engaging university leadership on options.”
The Soul of Lacrosse
In the end, iconic sub-5,000 seat venues shape lacrosse’s identity. Workarounds are needed to bring Final Fours back to these campuses.
“Generations of legends were made on those fields,” said Carcaterra. “They deserve to host despite capacity challenges.”
With creative seating solutions and university investment in venue growth, more of lacrosse’s foundational sites could be back in the Final Four mix, even with NCAA minimums.
“Temporary seating gives smaller venues hope,” said Kelly. “But 5,000+ is the benchmark we must meet. There are no exceptions for lacrosse’s history or character.”
The seating capacity issue highlights the constant balancing of history and revenue in college sports. But working together, iconic lacrosse stadiums can earn their rightful place hosting the sport’s premier event once again.
Decision Expected This Fall Ahead of 2024 Final Four Selection
The NCAA Men’s Lacrosse Championship, known as the Final Four, is one of the most anticipated events each year. Recently, there has been growing discussion around potentially returning to on-campus venues beginning in 2024 after decades at neutral sites.
With bids for 2024 Final Four hosting rights due this fall, a venue policy decision is expected imminently on if school stadiums will be considered or if neutral sites will remain the standard.
Factors in Finalizing Policy
The NCAA is weighing several factors ahead of formalizing a 2024 Final Four venue policy in the coming months.
“Competitive balance, revenue potential, corporate hospitality, and honoring lacrosse history are all considerations,” said NCAA Executive VP Mark Lewis. “We’re carefully evaluating the pros and cons of campus sites versus neutral venues.”
Television rights negotiations starting in 2024 will also impact the policy. “Our media partner’s input on maximizing value is critical,” Lewis noted.
Fan reception to possible on-campus hosting will also be gauged. “We want to honor what’s best for student-athletes and fans,” said Lewis. “That’s who we serve.”
Selection Committee Awaits Decision
The NCAA lacrosse selection committee is eagerly awaiting a policy decision to guide their 2024 Final Four bid process this fall.
“It’s crucial we get clarity on venue rules when requesting proposals,” said selection committee chair Michael Sowers. “The policy fundamentally shapes what bids we can consider.”
Neutral sites want to know if they should even bother bidding. “If campuses are an option, that changes the game for pro stadiums,” said Sowers. “The policy determination sets the foundation.”
Timing Crunch Adds Pressure
With bid submissions due in October, a venue policy decision is expected imminently.
“We’re hoping for a final call by August,” said Sowers. “That gives us a month to spread the word before bids are due.”
The tight timeline adds pressure on the NCAA to finalize its stance. “Further delays start hurting the bid process,” said Sowers. “We’ll work with whatever parameters are decided, but certainty is crucial.”
An expedited decision could benefit potential bidders. “Knowing the ground rules early maximizes bid quality,” said Lewis. “It’s in everyone’s interest to finalize policy ASAP.”
Eyes on 2024 and Beyond
While the coming months focus on 2024 policy, the decision will have lasting implications.
“This is about more than just 2024,” said Lewis. “We’re setting precedent to guide where the Final Four is positioned for the future.”
Rotations incorporating both campus stadiums and neutral sites is possible. “A blended policy could get the best of both worlds,” Lewis noted.
But for now, all eyes are on the imminent venue policy as bids for 2024 approach. The lacrosse world eagerly awaits clarity on if classic campus stadiums will return to the Final Four fold starting two years from now.