ELLICOTTVILLE — Lacrosse players from both sides of the border will have a chance to compete over the course of the Sept. 21–23 weekend.

For the second year in a row, teams ranging from the boys youth category (5–7) through to the master’s divisions will vie for a chance to win their respective categories at the annual Ellicottville Lacrosse Festival.

No ordinary breed of lacrosse event, the festival is organized by the legendary Rhino Lacrosse Company, founded and run by former professional lacrosse player and U.S. national team player Ryan Powell together with business partner Mike Riorden.

“We call our events festivals instead of tournaments with good reason, because they aren’t just lacrosse competitions,” Powell said. “They’re unique experiences for players and family members alike that have a passion for lacrosse.”

Powell said Rhino’s events have a different vibe, with everything from food trucks to clothing and jewellery vendors, wooden lacrosse stick making demonstrations to fun zones and live music.

Ellicottville Chamber of Commerce executive director Brian McFadden said the tournament couldn’t take place at better time.

“By mid- to late-September, our hills will be ablaze with fall colors and we’ll have our chairlift running, so families can go to the top of the mountain, whether it’s to enjoy the great views or to have a picnic by the lake,” he said. “It’s probably the most comfortable time of the year as well. Not as hot as the summer months, but still a great time to enjoy all of the outdoor patios and live music we have in town.”

Compared to last year’s tournament involving 39 teams, based on current registrations, it’s predicted between 50 and 70 teams will attend this year’s event.

Additionally, Ellicottville will be unveiling a brand-new outdoor recreation centre, The Chamber Fields at Holiday Valley, with two additional playing fields for a total of eight fields for this year’s tournament.

For more information, go to www.ellicottvillelacrosse.com or email info@rhinolacrosse.com.