New York's Oculus Hosts a Day of Lacrosse Festivities Ahead of PLL Championship

Oculus Transformed into Lacrosse Hub

The Premier Lacrosse League (PLL) in collaboration with U.S. Bank recently transformed the Oculus at the World Trade Center into a vibrant lacrosse hub, celebrating a day filled with sports and community engagement. This extraordinary event took place on September 9, where attendees enjoyed an immersive experience that highlighted lacrosse culture right in the heart of New York City.

The event was more than just a showcase of the sport; it included a variety of activities aimed to engage fans, locals, and visitors alike. As part of the celebration, visitors were treated to competitions, meet-and-greets with professional athletes, and youth lacrosse performances featuring talented teams such as Harlem Lacrosse and the Brooklyn Crescents. The day also featured a special PLL skills challenge, where the New York Police Department (NYPD) and the Fire Department of New York (FDNY) showcased their lacrosse skills, reinforcing community ties through sport.

According to Paul Rabil, co-founder and president of PLL, the establishment of a turf field within the Oculus was a groundbreaking move. He expressed pride in creating such a unique space for athletes and first responders, emphasizing the importance of community connection and the celebration of lacrosse culture. Rabil stated, "We put a turf field inside the Oculus Transportation Hub, turning one of New York City's busiest landmarks into a lacrosse mecca. That had never been done before."

U.S. Bank played a crucial role in this transformation, not only by providing the turf but also by supporting local charities. As part of their mission, U.S. Bank donated $10,000 to both FDNY and NYPD charities, further demonstrating their commitment to community welfare and engagement.

Michael Lacorazza, chief marketing officer for U.S. Bank, highlighted the significance of play in fostering community spirit. He remarked, "This event allowed New Yorkers and visitors to connect and enjoy the game of lacrosse together. We're proud to partner with the PLL and WLL to bring joy and play into the Oculus."

The day's activities were a prelude to the upcoming PLL U.S. Bank Championship, set to take place on Sunday, September 14, at Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, New Jersey, where the New York Atlas will face off against the Denver Outlaws for the championship title.

This event not only showcased the excitement of the sport but also represented the continued partnership between U.S. Bank and the Premier Lacrosse League, highlighting their dedication to growing lacrosse through community initiatives and innovative fan experiences. U.S. Bank is the Official Banking and Wealth Management Partner of both the PLL and the Women’s Lacrosse League (WLL), demonstrating a long-term investment in the sport's future.

The PLL, which is rapidly gaining popularity across North America, is home to some of the best lacrosse talent in the world. With eight teams and a commitment to elevating the game, its initiatives such as this community event signify a progressive step towards wider lacrosse acceptance.

As lacrosse continues to grow, initiatives like the Oculus takeover serve not just to attract fans but also to build a supportive community environment around the sport. By highlighting local talent, supporting first responders, and providing a platform for youth engagement, the PLL and U.S. Bank are indeed paving the way for the sport's future in the region and beyond.

For those interested in experiencing all the action of the PLL Championship, tickets and further information can be found on the official PLL website.