National Lacrosse League will start in April
Cross-border travel among the details still to be worked out
National Lacrosse League players are glad to have some clarity on their 2021 season, though plenty remains to be sorted out, says Zach Currier.
The NLL announced Wednesday it’s targeting April 9-11 as the opening weekend for its season. The league usually begins in late December, but has delayed the start because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The league says the date provides time to sort out issues like protocols to allow spectators and cross-border travel.
The 2019-20 season was halted in mid-March and eventually cancelled.
Currier, elected Professional Lacrosse Players’ Association president this month, said the announcement was welcome news to players. “There were some opinions out there that we might not even play this season,” said Currier. “To say we have a date scheduled for opening weekend and we’re planning to play this season really helps people get inspired to get back to work. Myself, I’ve been struggling to work out or do anything physical to train and get ready for a season with it being up in the air.”
The league says it’s working with health authorities and local jurisdictions to develop health and safety protocols for players and fans at their games.
“We have been continuously working with our teams, players’ association, arenas and health and government officials to prepare to play our 35th season,” stated NLL commissioner Nick Sakiewicz. “An April start date will give us sufficient time to have our protocols in place for players, coaches, staff, as well as fans. We are working with all teams to provide the safest environment and an acceptable level of fans in the stands.
“We understand that current circumstances will dictate whether this plan is achievable and we will be prepared to remain flexible and pivot as needed.”
Currier said some level of fan attendance is critical.
“I’m assuming fans are going to be necessary for us to start. It’s our No. 1 source of revenue. We don’t really have a big TV contract in place. We have a sponsorship with Bleacher Report, but it’s by no means enough to pay all the players’ salaries,” said Currier.
With teams and players from both Canada and the U.S., crossborder travel also has to be worked out.
“The quarantine going from one country to another is the biggest issue,” said Currier.
“We can go to the States no problem, but when we come back we have to sit in a room for two weeks. It’s not ideal for anybody’s day job or the game the next weekend.”