SPARKS, Md. – A favorite pastime among U.S. Men’s and Women’s National Team players is becoming an official part of the USA Lacrosse experience. USA Lacrosse today announced a new sponsorship agreement with CATAN, the iconic board game that has become a staple at national team camps and events, where players test their strategy, negotiation skills and competitive spirit long after their time on the field ends.
CATAN will become the “Official Board Game of USA Lacrosse” through this innovative multi-year agreement. In reverence to the game’s affinity among players, CATAN will also be the “Official Mascot of the U.S. Women’s National Team.” The U.S. women’s team’s next major international competition is the Atlas Cup at USA Lacrosse headquarters from Oct. 23-25.
“Our players have made CATAN part of our national team culture for years,” said Dave Krupinski, VP of Marketing, Media and Communications for USA Lacrosse. “It’s how they unwind, compete, and connect when they’re away from the field. When CATAN saw that, they recognized an opportunity to build something authentic rather than create something from scratch.
“We believe the best partnerships grow from shared values and real experiences. That’s what makes this collaboration so exciting. It’s a natural fit that strengthens our athlete experience while giving fans a unique look inside our team culture.”
“The story of CATAN becoming woven into how the U.S. lacrosse teams build camaraderie and enjoy time off the field with their teammates in incredible,” said Kevin Hovdestad, Director, Brand Development at CATAN Studio. “We cannot wait to see how fans will join in celebrating their team’s favorite game, and to watch the continued momentum lacrosse has heading into the future.”
“This partnership is a signal of where lacrosse is headed,” said Will Blake, VP of Corporate Partnerships for USA Lacrosse. “CATAN is the first non-endemic partner to structure their entire investment around our runway to LA28, and that tells you everything about the moment our sport is in. We built this as a multi-year commitment through the LA28 Games on purpose, because the brands who move now are the ones who benefit most from what’s coming.”
About CATAN Studio
CATAN Studio, an asmodee studio, is dedicated to promoting and growing the legacy of CATAN, one of the world’s most celebrated board games. CATAN Studio produces products that spark imagination, foster community, and bring joy to players around the world.
About USA Lacrosse
USA Lacrosse, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation, is certified by the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee as the National Governing Body for the sport in the United States. USA Lacrosse works to fuel the growth, enrich the experience, and field the best national teams, supporting more than 425,000 members across the country.