NLL Partners with the Arena Lacrosse League
PHILADELPHIA, November29, 2018 – The National Lacrosse League and theArena Lacrosse League have officially announced a formal working partnership between the two leagues. Complete details of the partnership have not been announced, but will include the continuance of player movement between the leagues, placement of game officials, and the development of potential future NLL coaches, management, and players.
“We are thrilled to partner with the Arena Lacrosse League as we continue our focus on player development in the league,” said NLL Commissioner Nick Sakiewicz. “This is a great first step in producing a natural funnel from the amateur level to the professional ranks. The ability for the league and its teams to establish year-round evaluation of ALL players, officials, and management, will build a process for sustained growth.”
The Arena Lacrosse League formed to allow players that needed a bit more experience the opportunity to compete and develop at a high level with the aspiration of playing the sport professionally in the NLL.
“This is a very exciting time for the Arena Lacrosse League,” stated ALL President Paul St. John. “We have been very open about the ALL and our goals, including partnering with the NLL with the ambition of becoming their official minor league, this partnership is a step in that direction. We will continue to provide a high-level development league, preparing players, game officials as well as coaches for the NLL. Having the NLL endorsement will assist in recruiting the best players, officials and coaches not currently in the top lacrosse league in the world.”
As the league continues its plans for expansion, a strict focus remains to grow the player pool and sustain the level of competition fans have come to expect from NLL games.
About the National Lacrosse League
The National Lacrosse League (NLL) is North America's premier professional indoor lacrosse league. Founded in 1986, the NLL ranks third in average attendance for pro indoor sports worldwide, behind only the NHL and NBA. The League is comprised of 12 franchises across the United States and Canada: Buffalo Bandits, Calgary Roughnecks, Colorado Mammoth, Georgia Swarm, New England Black Wolves, Philadelphia Wings, Rochester Knighthawks, San Diego Seals, Saskatchewan Rush, Toronto Rock, Vancouver Warriors and Halifax ‘19. For more information, visit NLL.com and find the NLL on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
About the Arena Lacrosse League
The Arena Lacrosse League is entering its 3rd season as a high-level development league for players with professional ambitions. The league is currently playing under professional rules providing players the best opportunity for advancement and an easier transition into the National Lacrosse League. More information can be found on the ALL website arenalacrosseleague.ca.
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