Lacrosse Becomes a Sanctioned High School Sport in Kentucky

News Summary

Lacrosse will be officially recognized as a sanctioned sport in Kentucky high schools starting in the 2024-25 school year. This monumental shift allows students to compete for state championships, expanding the sport’s presence in schools. Bowling Green will have teams from Bowling Green, Greenwood, and South Warren participating in this thrilling sport, which has seen exponential growth. Coaches stress the benefits of lacrosse for developing leadership and teamwork among student-athletes, and plans are underway to ensure trained referees will uphold the game’s integrity.

Exciting News for Bowling Green: Lacrosse Becoming a Sanctioned High School Sport!

Bowling Green, Kentucky is buzzing with excitement as lacrosse, one of the fastest-growing sports in the state, is officially stepping up to the big leagues! As of the 2024-25 school year, both Girls’ and Boys’ Lacrosse will be recognized as sanctioned sports in Kentucky high schools. This is a monumental shift for a sport that has thrived as a club activity for years.

A Bright Future for Lacrosse in Kentucky

Thanks to the Kentucky High School Athletics Association (KHSAA) certification, students will now have the chance to compete for state championships. Imagine the thrill of watching local teams go for gold on the big stage! In Bowling Green alone, there are three teams—Bowling Green, Greenwood, and South Warren—all gearing up for what promises to be an unforgettable season.

These three schools find themselves in Region One, sharing the competition with Owensboro High School. Just recently, all the boys’ teams had a lively scrimmage day, showcasing their budding talents. To top it off, the day concluded with an electrifying match between the local women’s teams from Western Kentucky University (WKU) and the University of Kentucky (UK). It was a display of skill, teamwork, and the pure joy of the game!

The Voices Behind the Game

Rachel Gilpin, who serves as the assistant coach for the Greenwood girls and also coaches the WKU squad, is thrilled with the sport’s exponential growth. Coaches across the region are emphasizing how similar lacrosse is to soccer and football, making it an easier transition for athletes coming from those sports.

The enthusiasm is infectious as coaches promote the benefits of lacrosse, not just for the physical prowess it encourages but also for developing essential leadership and athletic skills among student-athletes. It’s not just about scoring goals; it’s about building character and teamwork!

Key Players in the Game’s Expansion