2026 College Player Officials Academy Training Dates Announced
NORTHBOROUGH, MASS. – Intercollegiate Women’s Lacrosse Coaches Association (IWLCA) and USA Lacrosse have announced seven training dates between May and July for the 2026 College Player Officials Academy (CPOA). This joint venture aims to encourage current and recently graduated lacrosse players to become the next generation of women’s game officials.
Coinciding with select summer tournaments, the CPOA events provide candidates with virtual classroom instruction, hands-on training, and live game action to help springboard their officiating journey. Upon completion of the clinic, the Rules and Penalties Online Course, the annual exam, and the professional development course, the participants will be USA Lacrosse Certified Officials.
“With the continued growth of girls and women’s lacrosse, it’s crucial that we work to find the next generation of officials,” said Liz Robertshaw, IWLCA Executive Director. “For years, the College Player Officials Academy (CPOA) has looked to do just that by introducing over 250 new officials into the youth system in the last five years alone. We are thankful for USA Lacrosse’s continued collaboration.”
Officials Recruitment and Development Committee Chair Stephanie Allen added, “When young female lacrosse players choose to become officials, they’re not leaving the field—they’re elevating the game.” Their knowledge, confidence, and perspective are exactly what the next generation of lacrosse needs. We encourage college players and recent graduates to check out our Summer 2026 College Players Officials Academies and consider getting certified. The future of lacrosse depends on the voices and leadership of today’s young athletes.
The dates and locations for the 2026 College Player Officials Academy are:
● May 30 in College Park, Md. (UMD Playday)
● May 31 in College Park, Md. (UMD Playday)
● June 6 in Downingtown, PA (Apex Summer Opener)
● June 13 in Raleigh, NC (IWLCA Southeast Cup)
● June 20 in Boyds, MD (IWLCA Champions Cup)
● June 27 in Amherst, Mass. (IWLCA New England Cup)
● July 10 in Frederica, DE (IWLCA Capital Cup)
Click here to register – 2026 CPOA Clinics
The $25 registration fee covers the classroom and on-field training and evaluation/rating. Lunch is provided at the all day on-field sessions. Attendees are responsible for travel and lodging expenses.
After registering, participants will receive an email from [email protected] with important information regarding the clinic details. USA Lacrosse reserves the right to reschedule any sessions with fewer than six officials enrolled.