Is the NLL Presentation Style Good for the Sport?

Since really getting into box lacrosse, I'm come across many people who dislike the way the NLL is portrayed and the things they do at the game. If I had a quarter for every traditionalist who complained about playing music during the play I'd own an NLL team.

There are certain aspects about the NLL that are very different than the traditional big sports. The question I discuss today is quite simple: Are these NLL quirks good for the sport or should the NLL aim for a more traditional audience?

Going to a Bandits game is like a big party for me, and I think I speak for many when I say that. The loud music during play, the ridiculous play-by-play that is broadcasted in the arena, it is all part of the experience to me. It's very different than a Sabres game. Not only is it a completely different audience, its a different atmosphere. I believe it is a positive atmosphere.

NLL games are very kid friendly events. They are quite a spectacle to see, just ask any first timer. It's not like going to an NFL, NHL, or NBA game. In my opinion, that's a good thing. The NLL cannot compete with those leagues. The games need to be fun, and at points kind of silly, because that's what draws people into the crowd. If you ask a majority of the fans why they are at the game, its not because they are a die-hard NLL fan. Its because the games are a fun time and they enjoy going to them.

You know what demographic lacrosse is popular with right now? Kids. The next generation is the key to the growth of lacrosse. I've met my fair share of kids, and if they are bored, they won't want to come back. You and I may think a football game is thrilling, but a ten year old will not love all the stops and starts. I know at ten I loved the loud music and the fact that there were more goals in one game than the NHL had in three or four. I was hooked, and look at me now. I'm writing about the sport.

For the time being, the NLL needs to be out there, because it sets it apart. Lacrosse by itself will have a hard time drawing people into games. Until the NLL gets a larger demographic, they can't afford to suddenly get less interesting. If the NLL starts selling out in all their arenas, then we can revisit the topic of making the sport a tad more traditional. I am certain I will gain the disapproval of many NLL fans for saying this.

Remember, check out my interview from yesterday with Charlotte Copperhead's head coach Tom Ryan. Starting next week I will be hosting "Goods On Lacrosse" on the Lacrosse Radio network every Wednesday at 6PM. I'll be talking NLL, NALL, CLax, you name it. As always remember to follow me on twitter at @GoodsOnSabres.