SPARKS, Md. — The pipeline to the U.S. National Teams – the USA Lacrosse National Team Development Program (NTDP) – is set to operate for its fifth year in 2024. The program is aimed at high school lacrosse players with the dual purpose of developing their skills while acclimating them to the national team program.
The program has proven to be a success since its launch in 2019. Each year approximately 1,500 players participate in at least one of the three current phases of the program – regional tryouts, national combine and international competition through the USA Select teams. Of the 42 players named to the 2024 U.S. Women’s U20 team that will compete in the world championship next summer in Hong Kong, China, 31 of them came through the NTDP.
“We’ve had tremendous success with our NTDP program and we’re looking to go even deeper with our players this year,” said Amy Markwort, manager of the NTDP. “We’re seeking to expand training and competitive opportunities and will be introducing sixes programming (the version of the sport that will be used in the Olympics) into our training in addition to the traditional field game.”
The 2024 NTDP calendar will kick off with regional tryouts from May through July. The full schedule of regional tryout dates and locations and registration information will be announced in early 2024.
Following the regional tryouts, approximately 350 players, 175 boys and 175 girls, will be invited to national combines for boys (July 29 – July 31) and girls (July 31 – Aug. 2).
From the national combine player pool, a total of 88 players will be named to the 2024 USA Select U16 and U18 teams for boys and girls (22 each). Those teams will compete against international competition the weekend of Oct. 25-27 at USA Lacrosse headquarters in Sparks, Md.
Additional training and competitions for the USA Select teams are under consideration for the fall and winter of 2024.
The USA Lacrosse NTDP is sponsored by Cascade Maverik, STX, New Balance, Enovis, MedStar Health, NCSA, Gatorade, Hotel Planner and First Scout.
About USA Lacrosse
USA Lacrosse, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation, is a Recognized Sports Organization of the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee. As the governing body of men’s and women’s lacrosse in the United States, USA Lacrosse leads the U.S. National Teams Program and establishes universal standards. With more than 400,000 members across the country, USA Lacrosse unites the community of players, coaches, officials, parents, and program leaders. Working together, we inspire participation, enrich the athlete experience, and support the growth of the sport.
