The Australian Lacrosse Association (ALA) have today announced the cancellation of the 2020 ALA Challenge due to take place in July.

This decision affects our senior women’s national squad who were due to fly out and compete in a test series against the senior Australia women’s national squad alongside the ALA Challenge and, although disappointing, is absolutely the correct decision to protect the health and wellbeing of those involved.

Australian Lacrosse stated the decision to cancel was reached “following the continued uncertainty as the world responds to the ever-changing COVID-19 situation.

“As several countries close their borders, airlines are in turmoil and we simply do not know when this situation will end".

On a more positive note, the ALA revealed they “hope to re-evaluate [their] events later in the year and look forward to holding a successful January 2021 ALA Southern Crosse Tournament”.

Information regarding the January 2021 tournament will be announced later this year and the statement ended by asking the lacrosse family to “stay safe and healthy”.

In response to the statement, Jane Powell, England Lacrosse National Performance & Talent Development Manager, said:

“This test series was shaping up to be a hugely exciting contest just one year out from the Women's World Cup, but we support the decision by the ALA fully as the health and wellbeing of the participants is our first and only priority at this time.

“We're communicating with the senior women’s national squad on best practice for health and wellbeing during this time to ensure everyone is ready to hit the ground running in the run up to the 2021 World Cup".