Reviewed by: Michael Seale
NAIA Lacrosse National Championships now headed to Decatur
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The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) has selected Decatur, Alabama, to host the 2026 men’s and women’s Lacrosse National Championships.
Some of the top collegiate lacrosse teams are set to compete, putting Decatur in the national spotlight.
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Driven by local collaborations
Part of a multi-year agreement to keep the competition in Decatur, the championship will return each year in the second week of May through 2028.
The national championships will be hosted at the Jack Allen Sports Complex, home to a championship-sized field with a fully equipped press box and bleacher seating that can hold over 2,000 spectators.
With the help of Decatur Morgan County Tourism, visitors will have support with lodging and dining options. Tourism officials estimate the accommodations will exceed the initial $80,000 investment, generating more than 1,000 hotel room nights annually, and driving spending at local restaurants and businesses.
“Events llike the NAIA Lacrosse National Championships drive visitation, support our local business, and showcase Decatur on a national stage.”
Danielle Gibson, Director of Decatur Morgan County Tourism
This event wouldn’t be possible without the collaboration between Decatur Parks and Recreation and Decatur Morgan County Tourism.
“What set Decatur apart was our facilities, our centralized layout at Jack Allen, and the way our community welcomed teams and visitors.”
Don Dukemineer, Decatur Sport League and Tournament Manager
The championship event
The lacrosse championships will host 16 total teams from across the country, comprising the top eight men’s and women’s collegiate teams. Competing over multiple days, the community will get to experience national level competion first-hand.
During the championship week, NAIA’s Champions of Character program will send student-athletes into the community to participate in outreach events. The goal is to foster relationships that continue long after the tournament.
“Events like this bring energy to our city and highlight what makes Decatur a great place to live and visit.”
Kent Lawrence, Mayor of Decatur
Decatur residents are advised to get tickets early and take part in the week-long championship events.
Event details:
- 📍 Jack Allen Sports Complex
- 🗓️ May 11-16, 2026
- 🎟️ All-day pass $16.54 | tournament pass $79.54
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