News

Decatur Set to Host 2026 NAIA Men’s & Women’s Lacrosse National Championships

Championship-level lacrosse is coming to Decatur, and the community is invited to be part of it.

From May 11–16, Decatur will host the 2026 NAIA Men’s & Women’s Lacrosse National Championships at the Jack Allen Sports Complex, bringing some of the top collegiate programs in the country to compete on a national stage.

Tickets are on sale now, giving residents a front-row seat to high-energy matchups, elite student-athletes, and a week of competition that will put Decatur in the national spotlight.

A National Event, Right Here at Home

The championships will feature 16 teams total, with the top eight men’s and top eight women’s teams in NAIA lacrosse competing over multiple days.

The event is part of a multi-year agreement that keeps the championships in Decatur through 2028, reinforcing the city’s growing reputation as a destination for collegiate athletics.

“This is an opportunity for our community to show up, support student-athletes, and experience a national championship atmosphere right here in Decatur,” said Mayor Kent Lawrence. “Events like this bring energy to our city and highlight what makes Decatur a great place to live and visit.”

Powered by Local Partnerships

The event is made possible through coordination between Decatur Parks & Recreation and Decatur Morgan County Tourism, whose teams are working together to deliver a first-class experience for teams, families, and fans.

“Hosting national championships like this is exactly what our facilities are built for,” said Parks and Recreation Director Hunter Allen. “Jack Allen Sports Complex gives us the ability to welcome top-level competition while creating an experience our community can be proud of.”

Tourism leaders say the impact goes well beyond the field.

“Events like the NAIA Lacrosse National Championships drive visitation, support our local businesses, and showcase Decatur on a national stage,” said Danielle Gibson, Director of Decatur Morgan County Tourism. “We want residents to come out, buy tickets, and help us create an atmosphere that keeps teams and visitors coming back.”

Why It Matters

• National Exposure: Decatur hosts top collegiate teams from across the country
• Economic Impact: Visitors support hotels, restaurants, and local businesses
• Community Pride: A chance for residents to rally behind a national event
• Future Growth: Strengthens Decatur’s position as a sports tourism destination

More Than a Game

In addition to competition, NAIA’s Champions of Character program will bring student-athletes into the community to engage in outreach activities with local youth and civic groups during championship week, creating lasting connections beyond the tournament.

Get Your Tickets

Residents are encouraged to secure tickets early and be part of a week that combines national competition with hometown pride.

Event Details:

• Location: Jack Allen Sports Complex
• Dates: May 11–16, 2026
• Tickets: https://tinyurl.com/5cep5966

Don’t wait. Championship week is coming, and Decatur is ready to show up.

In Decatur, We Are Better Together.