Reproduction: www.britishlacrosse.org
British Lacrosse’s new independent chairman, Leslie Rance, said the sport’s inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics would bring “enormous encouragement” and put the sport back on the agenda. Lacrosse has not appeared in the Olympics since London 1908, when Canada beat Great Britain in the gold medal match.
Lacrousse is one of nine sports shortlisted for the LA 2028 program, along with baseball/softball, cricket, breaking, flag football, karate, kickboxing, motor racing and squash. A decision is expected at the International Olympic Committee Session in Mumbai, which is scheduled for October 15-17.
“This upcoming decision is a huge moment in the history of the sport and, if it is affirmative, Olympic participation would be a tremendous boost to the lacrosse community, an endorsement of the sport and an opportunity to showcase it at the highest level of competition. Now I look forward to diving into the world of lacrosse and meeting our stakeholders, especially those who work, volunteer and support, play and run the game across Great Britain,” said Rance.
Rance was born in Zimbabwe, lived in South Africa and now lives in Scotland. He has 25 years of leadership experience at FTSE 100 companies and has been a sports anchor on African television. Rance is beginning her new role with immediate effect and is replacing Sallie Barker.
“I must thank Sallie for her outstanding leadership in creating British Lacrosse over the past few years, we have solid foundations thanks to her, Board members and other volunteers who have been there from the start in 2020. I am honored and excited to be appointed to this role and while I may be new to lacrosse, I see the potential for the sport in this country and our role in it globally,” added Rance.
