“The Niagara Lacrosse Classic has evolved over the course of time, but this event has always been an important weekend for both teams and families alike,” said Mike Wright, the tournament founder and director of the Buffalo Lacrosse Academy and Team Buffalo club program.
A Buffalo native and Providence College alum who played for the Friars in the late 1990s, Wright established the Niagara Lacrosse Classic in 2007 as a celebration of the game, where families can enjoy action at the storied fort and find themselves just minutes from some of the area’s greatest natural wonders, like Niagara Falls.
“This setting is perfect for the type of vibe we’ve been creating each summer. This year’s event was really one of the best we’ve had in terms of the experience for teams and from an operations standpoint. On top of it all, we had beautiful weather from start to finish.”
On Sunday afternoon, bracket play culminated in intense semifinal and championship matchups. Afterward, the victorious teams made their way to the park’s peculiar protuberance, known as the “Sledding Hill,” where each championship team member received a custom keepsake medallion.
East Aurora Select, a local youth program, took home both the 2030 and 2031-2032 championships while three different Canadian programs — RedBlacks, Evolve and Centre Wellington Cobras — each claimed one title.
Kris Miller coached the Cobras, winners of the 2033-2034 8v8 division crown. He called the event a “summer highlight” for both the coaches and players in the Centre Wellington program.
“Awesome tournament,” Miller said. “Loved the venue with the beautiful fields, mature trees and incredible vendors. Can’t wait to try and conquer ‘the hill’ again next year. Thanks to everyone involved with the Niagara Classic!”
Wright coached the 2026 Team Buffalo squad to the championship in the 2026-2027 title, a fitting cap after coaching the group for more than 10 years.
“For these guys, it’s a milestone to come here and compete. To play as hard as they did and to win a title, it’s certainly a rewarding end to their club careers.”
Kevin Leveille, the Premier Lacrosse League’s VP of Youth Sales Strategy, said the Niagara Lacrosse Classic is a unique opportunity given its proximity to so many teams in Ontario, Michigan, Ohio and Pennsylvania.
“The Buffalo-Niagara region is one of the most central locations as it relates to teams and talent,” said Leveille, who hails from Albany and went on to become a star at the collegiate, pro and world level.
