The NCAA recently announced that Philadelphia will host the 2015 and 2016 Men’s and Women’s Lacrosse Championships, as well as the Men’s College Cup in 2017. The city and the NCAA have a history that includes 14 NCAA championships since 2000 and the tradition will continue with five NCAA championships over the next three years, bringing soccer and lacrosse fans to the area.
“We are thrilled that the NCAA has again acknowledged Philadelphia as a championship city, recognizing the birthplace of America as an exciting destination with diverse institutions,” said Don DiJulia, director of athletics for Saint Joseph’s University. “This region is one of the fastest growing nationally for the sport of lacrosse so we are honored to be a part of bringing this great championship here.”
Saint Joseph’s University will host Women’s Lacrosse’s return to Philadelphia in 2015 and 2016 at PPL Park. The city will also host the 2015 and 2016 Men’s Lacrosse Championships at Lincoln Financial Field with Drexel University as a partner.
The city of Philadelphia will also open its doors for the sport of soccer when the Men’s College Cup returns in 2017 to PPL Park with Global Spectrum and Villanova University.
“PPL Park is thrilled to continue the tradition that is being built of hosting the best in collegiate sports by welcoming back the NCAA Men’s College Cup and hosting the Women’s Lacrosse DI & DIII National Championships”, said Nick Sakiewicz, Philadelphia Union CEO & operating partner. “We’re honored that what is known as one of the best atmospheres in Major League Soccer is also recognized as one of the best locations for collegiate championships.”
