Lacrosse is a fast-paced, high-intensity sport growing in popularity across the United States. As the sport continues to gain traction, many are curious about the earning potential of professional lacrosse players. So, how much does a lacrosse player make? The answer varies depending on the league, player experience, and skill level.
In the United States, the two main professional lacrosse leagues are Major League Lacrosse (MLL) and the National Lacrosse League (NLL). Both leagues have different pay scales and structures, which can significantly impact a player’s earnings.
Major League Lacrosse (MLL) is an outdoor lacrosse league established in 2001. According to the MLL Players Association, the average salary for an MLL player in 2020 was around $8,000 to $20,000 per season. This figure may seem low compared to other professional sports. Still, it’s important to remember that MLL is a semi-professional league, and many players hold other jobs during the off-season.
The National Lacrosse League (NLL), on the other hand, is an indoor lacrosse league that has been around since 1986. According to the Professional Lacrosse Players’ Association, the NLL operates on a different pay scale, with players earning an average salary of $19,135 in the 2018-2019 season. Top players in the NLL can earn upwards of $34,000 per season.
In addition to their base salary, lacrosse players can earn money through endorsements, sponsorships, and coaching. High-profile players like Paul Rabil, who co-founded the Premier Lacrosse League (PLL), have secured lucrative endorsement deals with companies like Red Bull and Warrior Sports. These additional income streams can significantly boost a player’s earnings.
However, while lacrosse is growing in popularity, it still lags behind other professional sports in terms of player salaries. For comparison, the minimum salary for a rookie in the National Football League (NFL) was $480,000 in 2020, according to the NFL Players Association.
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Despite the lower salaries, many players are drawn to the sport for the love of the game. Lacrosse offers a unique blend of speed, skill, and strategy unmatched in other sports. Plus, the camaraderie and community within the lacrosse world are often cited as significant draws for players.
While the earning potential for professional lacrosse players in the United States is currently lower than that of other professional sports, the sport is growing rapidly. As its popularity continues to rise, it’s possible that player salaries will increase in the future.
FAQs:
1. What is the average salary of a professional lacrosse player?
The average salary for a professional lacrosse player varies depending on the league. In the MLL, players earn an average of $8,000 to $20,000 per season, while in the NLL, players earn an average of $19,135 per season.
2. How can lacrosse players increase their earnings?
In addition to their base salary, lacrosse players can increase their earnings through endorsements, sponsorships, and coaching.
3. How do lacrosse salaries compare to other professional sports?
Lacrosse salaries are currently lower than those of other professional sports. For comparison, the minimum salary for a rookie in the NFL was $480,000 in 2020.
4. Why do players choose to play lacrosse despite the lower salaries?
Many players are drawn to lacrosse for the love of the game. The sport offers a unique blend of speed, skill, and strategy, and the camaraderie within the lacrosse community is often cited as a major draw for players.
5. Will lacrosse salaries increase in the future?
As the popularity of lacrosse continues to rise, player salaries may increase. However, this will depend on various factors, including the financial health of the leagues and the continued growth of the sport.
