Premier Lacrosse League announces games at UAlbany

PHOTOGRAPHER: File Photo

The PLL will play in Albany this August.

ALBANY — The Premier Lacrosse League, a start-up league that features several players with connections to the Capital Region, announced Monday that it will play at Tom & Mary Casey Stadium on Aug. 24-25.

“Albany has always been a hotbed of lacrosse and now local passion is fueled by the rise of University at Albany’s powerhouse men’s lacrosse team,” PLL co-founder Paul Rabil said in a press release. “The capital is ready and we are thrilled to partner with UAlbany to bring the action of top notch professional lacrosse to an energized sports public. This summer, the world’s best lacrosse players will descend on the city for three fiercely competitive games that will shape the PLL playoff picture.

The six PLL teams do not have home locations and will instead tour together. At Casey Stadium, one game will be played on the league’s first day in Albany, then two will be played on the second.

Former UAlbany stars such as Connor Fields, Miles Thompson and Blaze Riorden are among the players committed to playing in the PLL who have ties to the Capital Region.

“The Albany lacrosse community is honored to welcome the PLL to Casey Stadium in its inaugural season,” UAlbany men’s lacrosse head coach Scott Marr said in the league’s press release. “Knowing the support our community gives UAlbany lacrosse, I anticipate an enthusiastic turnout to experience the game at its highest level. In addition, we are extremely proud to welcome back to campus eight former Great Danes who have been fortunate to be drafted into the PLL. Thanks to Paul Rabil and the PLL for the opportunity to host.”

The trip to Albany for the PLL, which starts its 14-week season in June, comes during a busy stretch of the sports year in the Capital Region. The Aurora Games at Times Union Center are scheduled to run from Aug. 20-25, while this year’s Travers Day at Saratoga Race Course is set for Aug. 24.