Wednesday (25th April) saw English Lacrosse Association launch their Bid to host the 2017 Women’s World Cup at Westminster with the help of the Minister for Sport and the Olympics, Hugh Robertson and an array of fellow MPs.
Among those present was Justin Tomlinson MP who helped demonstrate his support by signing the ‘Back the Bid’ England flag.
As well as cross-parliamentary support – which came from David Cameron, Nick Clegg and Ed Miliband – ELA were delighted to welcome Jeff Probyn, former England Rugby Union player and Lisa O’Keefe, Director of Sport at Sport England.
Sue Redfern, Chair of the English Lacrosse Board said ‘We were delighted with the response and support that we received from Members of Parliament yesterday and with over 10% of the House behind us, we believe that this puts English Lacrosse in good position in the bidding process.’
Justin Tomlinson MP added ‘This bid gets my support as I know the economic value it will bring to its local community. England will do an excellent job hosting this tournament and I wish the English Lacrosse Association every success in this venture.’
The final decision will be made by the Federation of International Lacrosse in June this year. The proposed venue for the event is Surrey Sports Park, Guildford, having welcomed the Lacrosse Home Internationals in April this year and the Women’s Rugby World Cup in 2010. 30 nations are expected to compete in the FIL Women’s World Lacrosse Cup in 2017 in comparison to the 16 countries that competed in Prague in 2009.