The sixes is a faster competition with a 30-second shot clock, designed with the hope that it will reach a wider audience around the world. Japan star Nakazawa Kokoro likens it to basketball – but with a stick.
Most players play both sixes and field, the traditional format used at worlds, but it remains to be seen just how the format will shape the Games.
“It’s really fast paced,” Nakazawa said. “The ball doesn’t stop often and you have 30 seconds to attack. It’s a lot closer to basketball so things like the transition game, the aggressiveness are where it’s different.
“And the goal is so close so it makes me want to shoot a lot. I really like the speed.”
Everyone associated with lacrosse hopes the Olympic Games will be a lightning rod and that a lot of eyes will be opened to the sport worldwide, not only in North America.
“I mean, there really is no limit to the impact it could have. I think there’s going to be so much interest in the sport,” said USA’s Charlotte North, the GOAT of the women’s game who is recovering from a torn Achilles and is in Japan to support her team-mates.
“People are going to attend the games, watch the games and realize that they love all the elements of it and how competitive it is, how physical and fast and exciting it is.
“The plays that are made by the players at the highest level are beautiful to watch like it’s a form of art like when we watch the U.S. team – or any team, really But it’s really inspiring and so I think people are going to be excited about where they can get more lacrosse.
“You’re going to see a lot of young players that maybe play basketball or play (ice) hockey and they want to go out and get a stick and try it because they’re inspired.
“And I think that’s the ultimate goal, especially when you look at the big picture – is to continue to inspire those younger players to grab a stick, start a team, join the team down the street or encourage their friends to go out and play because they love it.”
World Lacrosse would love nothing more if that were to happen.
