How did the NCAA become involved in intercollegiate lacrosse competition?

The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) began sponsoring intercollegiate lacrosse competition in 1970. This move reflected the sport's growing popularity across the United States, extending well beyond its traditional stronghold along the Eastern Seaboard.1

Following this transition, the NCAA initiated national championship tournaments for men in 1971, with women’s tournaments following in 1982. Prior to the NCAA's involvement, intercollegiate play was overseen by organizations such as the U.S. Intercollegiate Lacrosse Association, which had been reorganized in 1926. Today, the NCAA serves as the primary administrative authority for the sport at the collegiate level, formulating rules of play and supervising national championships.12