The Hungarian Lacrosse Federation has been making tremendous progress over the last few years. From its establishment in 2010, to hosting the European Championships in 2016, to participating in our first World Championships in 2018, it continues to grow and improve in how it operates both on and off the field. While people may not associate Hungary with the sport of lacrosse, the Federation’s main goal has been to change that narrative. Activities both at home and abroad have grown exponentially, as have the number of players representing the red, white and green.
Within Hungary, the Federation has been focused on expanding the game at all levels. Multiple youth programs for children aged 4-13 are being launched to teach the fundamentals of lacrosse, while three more men’s club teams are being created over the next few years. By rolling out programs similar to this, the Federation is able to grow the game and develop our own league for teams in Hungary to compete.
Stateside, Hungary Lacrosse recently competed in the Heritage Cup in Philadelphia this past May. With the youngest roster ever compiled and competing against other heritage teams like Ireland, Puerto Rico, Greece and Lithuania, we were able to secure a third-place finish and put people in the lacrosse community on notice that Hungary Lacrosse has the talent to compete with anyone for years to come.
Currently, the National Team is gearing up for the 2020 European Lacrosse Championships. The team’s last US-based tryout takes place October 10-12 at the Lacrosse All Stars North American Invitational in Syracuse, NY. This will also be the first time Hungary has fielded a box lacrosse team.
With the growth in participation rates and talent in Hungary, the continued support from our donors and the dedication of our US-based players to grow the game in Hungary, we look to put forth a team that can compete with the best at the 2020 European Championships.
A majority of our US-based National Team players are dual citizens and continue to have close ties with Hungary. That has been the key to our success so far and what drives us forward. If you are interested in donating or playing with the Hungarian lacrosse team in October, please contact george@hungarylacrosse.com.
