The International Olympic Committee (IOC) Membership today voted to grant Full Recognition to the international federation for lacrosse (World Lacrosse).
The vote took place during the 138th IOC Session in Tokyo ahead of the upcoming Olympic Games.
For World Lacrosse, the conferral of Full Recognition by the IOC is the fulfillment of a goal the organisation first established for itself more than a decade ago and is a reflection of the vision and contributions of countless volunteers around the globe who have been steadfast in their commitment to support the continued growth of lacrosse by expanding opportunities for participation at every level.
“This is a momentous day for lacrosse enthusiasts around the world and a reason for our entire World Lacrosse family to celebrate,” said World Lacrosse President Sue Redfern. “We are deeply grateful to the Membership of the International Olympic Committee for today’s vote and the expression of confidence it reflects. With Full Recognition comes greater responsibility, and we are committed to serving as an active and engaged member of the international sport community and supporting our partners across sport.”
“We also offer our congratulations to the other international federations who, alongside World Lacrosse, also secured Full Recognition today. We are proud to be your partners and wish you the very best for continued success,” added Redfern.
“The evaluation process for Full Recognition has been intensive, but at every step in the process, the IOC has helped make World Lacrosse a stronger, more effective international federation, and we greatly appreciate the IOC’s ongoing support and encouragement,” said World Lacrosse Chief Executive Officer Jim Scherr. “While today’s decision represents a historic milestone for World Lacrosse, it is not the culmination of our journey. Rather, we will use this new status and the momentum it creates to find new ways to continue expanding opportunities for participation in lacrosse around the globe while supporting even greater growth.”
As part of the evaluation process for Full Recognition, the IOC Sports Department conducted a comprehensive review of more than 500 pages of material submitted by World Lacrosse before making its recommendation the IOC Executive Board.
The grant of Full Recognition by the IOC ensures World Lacrosse will maintain its status as a member of the Association of IOC Recognized International Sports Federations (ARISF).
Additionally, World Lacrosse will continue to be eligible to receive financial support through the IOC Development Program and will continue to benefit from access to IOC meetings, educational seminars, publications and other resources.
Moreover, the conferral of Full Recognition means World Lacrosse and the game it stewards will continue to grow in stature and influence in the community of international sport.
Read the full World Lacrosse statement HERE.