Long before hockey took centre stage, lacrosse was Canada’s stand-alone national sport—and for many, it still holds that title in spirit. Once considered the game of gentlemen, lacrosse earned its noble reputation at a time when hockey players were being paid and lacrosse players remained true amateurs, playing purely for love of the game.

That same passion is alive and well today, right here in Kamloops.

The Kamloops Rattlers Senior Lacrosse Club competes in the Thompson Okanagan Senior Lacrosse League (TOSLL), facing off against teams like the Vernon Tigers, Kelowna Raiders, and Armstrong Shamrocks. If the Rattlers take the TOSLL crown, they advance to compete for the Provincial Championship against top teams from across B.C. — including clubs from the Lower Mainland, Vancouver Island, the Kootenays, and Northern B.C.

While Kamloops has yet to bring home a provincial title, it’s not for lack of trying

Lacrosse’s legacy stretches back thousands of years, with its origins rooted in Indigenous traditions. Known as Baggataway or Tewaarathon, depending on the language, lacrosse is more than just a sport — it’s a spiritual and cultural touchstone. In fact, it’s the only sport where First Nations teams, like the celebrated Haudenosaunee Nationals, compete on the world stage against countries like Canada and the United States, and often come out on top.

Compared to historic lacrosse towns like New Westminster — home of the legendary Salmonbellies since 1888 — Kamloops is relatively new to the game. But lacrosse is growing fast across Canada and around the world. That means it’s time for Kamloops to get on the lacrosse train! It’s a lot of fun.

If you think hockey’s become too polished or corporate, lacrosse offers something refreshingly real. There are no million-dollar contracts here — just players fuelled by passion, pride, and community spirit. Whether they’re chasing dreams of national teams or aspiring to play in the National Lacrosse League (NLL), these athletes pour their hearts into every game.

Want to see it for yourself? Head down to Memorial Arena and cheer on the Rattlers! Youth players registered with the Kamloops Minor Lacrosse Association get in for free making it a great night out and a perfect coaching moment for young fans.

Upcoming Rattlers Home Games at Memorial Arena:

• April 27 vs Armstrong

• May 25 vs Vernon

• June 20 vs Vernon

• Playoff dates to be determined

Need even more lacrosse in your life? Check out the Kamloops Venom, our Junior team also based out of Memorial Arena. Their full Thompson Okanagan Junior Lacrosse League schedule is available at kamloopsvenom.com.

Lacrosse is fast, fierce, and full of tradition. Come experience the action — and support Kamloops’ growing lacrosse legacy.

Submitted by Mathew Kreiser