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Decatur to Host NAIA Lacrosse National Championships Through 2028

Decatur will add another national event to its growing sports tourism calendar as the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics selects the city to host its men’s and women’s lacrosse national championships for the next three years.

The Decatur City Council approved a three-year agreement to bring the eight-team men’s and women’s tournaments to the Jack Allen Sports Complex, beginning in May 2026. The championships will return each year in the second week of May in 2027 and 2028.

The tournaments will be funded by lodging tax revenues, ensuring that hosting costs are supported by visitor spending rather than general fund budgets. Tourism officials estimate the championships will generate more than 1,200 hotel room nights annually and drive significant spending at local hotels, restaurants, and small businesses, producing an overall economic impact that exceeds the initial $80,000 investment.

“This is a smart investment in our local economy,” said Decatur Mayor Kent Lawrence. “NAIA championships bring visitors, energy, and national visibility. Decatur continues to show that we can host major events that benefit local businesses and showcase our city at its best.”

Decatur Sports League and Tournament Manager Don Dukemineer said securing the championships was the result of nearly a year of preparation and collaboration.

“We began conversations with NAIA last spring and submitted our bid in July,” Dukemineer said. “After a site visit in September, we were selected as one of three finalists. What set Decatur apart was our facilities, our centralized layout at Jack Allen, and the way our community welcomes teams and visitors.”

The championships will feature 16 teams, with the top eight men’s and top eight women’s teams in NAIA lacrosse competing in a multi-day tournament. Teams, coaches, families, and fans are expected to fill eight to nine local hotels during their stay.

“Our goal is to deliver a first-class experience from the moment teams arrive until they leave,” Dukemineer said. “We want them to compete at a high level, enjoy our city, and feel welcomed by the community.”

In addition to the economic impact, the agreement includes community engagement opportunities through NAIA’s Champions of Character programming. Student-athletes and coaches will participate in activities with local youth and civic groups during championship week.

Mayor Lawrence said hosting events like this continues to strengthen Decatur’s reputation as a destination for collegiate athletics.

“NAIA is extremely competitive, and these student athletes bring talent and passion,” Lawrence said. “This partnership introduces a growing sport to our community and adds another national championship to Decatur’s resume. That is good for our city now and for the future.”

Tourism officials and Parks and Recreation staff are already holding planning meetings to ensure the championships run smoothly and to create a positive experience for visitors and residents alike.

By pairing strong facilities, thoughtful planning, and community support, Decatur continues to invest in events that drive tourism, support local businesses, and bring national attention to the city.