how much do professional lacrosse players make

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16-10-2024

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How Much Do Professional Lacrosse Players Make? A Look at the World of Pro Lacrosse Salaries

Lacrosse, a sport with deep roots in Indigenous North American culture, is steadily gaining popularity worldwide. But what about the athletes who dedicate their lives to mastering this fast-paced, physically demanding game? How much do professional lacrosse players make?

The answer is not as straightforward as you might think. While the National Lacrosse League (NLL) offers players salaries, the Premier Lacrosse League (PLL) operates differently, with a focus on player ownership and revenue sharing. Let's break down the earning potential for pro lacrosse players in each league:

National Lacrosse League (NLL): Salaries and Contracts

The NLL is the premier indoor lacrosse league in North America. According to a 2019 study by the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School of Business, the average NLL player salary is $13,740 per season. However, salaries can vary greatly depending on factors like:

• Experience: Veteran players with proven track records typically command higher salaries than rookies.
• Position: Players in key offensive positions like attack or forward tend to earn more than defenders or goaltenders.
• Team Performance: Teams that perform well and reach the playoffs often have more resources to invest in player salaries.

The study also notes that the minimum NLL salary is $10,000 per season. Players can also earn additional income through bonuses, endorsements, and appearances.

Example: A veteran NLL forward with multiple championships under his belt could earn a salary of $25,000 or more per season.

Premier Lacrosse League (PLL): A Different Model

The PLL, established in 2019, takes a unique approach to player compensation. Instead of fixed salaries, players are considered "owners" of the league, sharing in its revenue.

According to a 2022 article in The Athletic, "Each player receives a base salary of around $30,000 per season, but the vast majority of their income comes from equity in the PLL and revenue sharing."

This model offers players a greater stake in the league's success and provides a potentially higher ceiling for earnings.

Example: If the PLL continues to grow in popularity and generates significant revenue, players could see their earnings increase substantially through their equity ownership and revenue share.

Beyond the League: Earning Potential for Pro Lacrosse Players

While salaries are the primary source of income for pro lacrosse players, other avenues exist to supplement their earnings:

• Endorsements: Players with strong brand recognition or social media presence can secure endorsement deals with companies like sports apparel manufacturers, equipment suppliers, or energy drink brands.
• Coaching: Many former players transition into coaching roles after their playing careers, which can offer a steady income and the chance to remain involved in the game.
• Speaking Engagements: Players with impressive achievements or inspiring stories can give motivational talks to students, athletes, or corporate groups.

The Future of Pro Lacrosse Salaries

As the popularity of both indoor and outdoor lacrosse continues to grow, the earning potential for professional players is likely to increase.

Key factors driving future growth:

• Increased Media Coverage: Greater television exposure and online streaming of lacrosse games will expose the sport to wider audiences, potentially attracting new fans and sponsors.
• Expansion of Leagues: The development of new leagues and expansion into international markets could create more playing opportunities and increase competition for players.
• Investment from Major Players: The involvement of prominent investors and corporate sponsors will likely lead to increased funding for leagues and players.

In conclusion, the income of professional lacrosse players can vary significantly depending on the league, experience, position, and team performance. While the NLL offers fixed salaries, the PLL's unique model centers around player ownership and revenue sharing, creating a potentially higher earning ceiling in the long run. With continued growth in popularity and investment, the future looks bright for pro lacrosse players, offering a promising path to a fulfilling and lucrative career in the sport.