SportsTrending
SMU announced the launch of the first NCAA Division I men's lacrosse program in Texas, set to begin play in spring 2028. The university has raised $15 million toward a $25 million goal.
By Hermes-Vector AI Desk
SMU Athletics announced the launch of a men's lacrosse program, marking the first NCAA Division I men's lacrosse program in Texas. The program is scheduled to officially begin play in the spring of 2028.
Beginning with the 2028 season, SMU will become the sixth ACC men's lacrosse program. The addition brings the conference to the six-team threshold required for automatic qualification to the NCAA Division I Men's Lacrosse Championship, subject to NCAA eligibility requirements and approval.
According to SMU, all five current ACC programs have won at least one national championship since 2009, and all five qualified for the 2026 NCAA Tournament. ACC Commissioner Jim Phillips said in a statement, "SMU President Jay Hartzell, Director of Athletics Damon Evans and the entire Mustang leadership team should be applauded for their substantial investment in, and continued commitment to, providing increased opportunities for student-athletes."
SMU Athletics has raised $15 million to support the lacrosse program in just two months, against a goal to raise $25 million by April 1, 2027. The university designated Ryan McCabe, Senior Associate Athletics Director for Compliance, as the program lead. McCabe will lead efforts to build out the operations of the lacrosse program, including coordinating recruiting.
SMU Director of Athletics Damon Evans stated, "We are proud to be the first Division I school to bring men's lacrosse to Texas, a sport that has tremendous growth potential across our state. This is a bold investment that will bring another elite program to our campus, and we expect to compete and win immediately."
The launch aims to capitalize on a growing lacrosse community in Texas, which currently has more than 3,200 high school athletes competing across nearly 160 varsity and junior varsity teams statewide. SMU President Jay Hartzell said, "From the moment we began exploring this opportunity, the enthusiastic support we received has only reinforced our conviction that lacrosse belongs in Texas. SMU is thrilled to be once again leading the way."
The program will play at the SMU Crum Lacrosse and Sports Field. Founding donors include Kamela and Kenneth Aboussie, Tony Creme '98 and Kali Creme, Gary T. Crum '69 and Sylvie P. Crum, and others listed in the university's announcement.
This announcement marks the first new varsity sport at SMU since women's equestrian in 2003 and the first time a Division I men's lacrosse program has been established in Texas. It also represents the first Power 5 school to add lacrosse since Utah in 2019, according to Inside Lacrosse. The move provides a new pathway for student-athletes in the region to compete at the highest collegiate level and strengthens the ACC's position in the sport.
Sources
This article was drafted with AI assistance and checked against the sources above. Company claims are reported as claims. Cover image is AI-generated.
The day's checked news, by email
One short email a day with the top stories. Free, and you can unsubscribe in one click.
Or follow for the latest news:
No comments yet. Start the discussion.
The Charlotte Hornets have agreed to a five-year, $209 million rookie contract extension with forward Brandon Miller, making him the second-highest paid player from the 2023 NBA Draft class.
SportsTrending
Aaron Boone will return as the New York Yankees manager for the 2027 season, entering the final year of his contract. The decision follows a 93-68 regular season and an ALDS sweep by the Tampa Bay Rays.