In the heart of British Columbia’s rich lacrosse culture, two names have come to symbolize the region’s connection to the fast-paced, high-energy world of professional box lacrosse: the Vancouver Stealth and the Vancouver Warriors.

While they represent different chapters in the National Lacrosse League’s (NLL) history, these teams are part of a shared story—one about growth, grit, and a deep passion for Canada’s national summer sport.

The Vancouver Stealth Era (2014–2018): Grit, Community, and Heart

The Vancouver Stealth arrived in B.C. in 2014, after relocating from Everett, Washington. Their new home at the Langley Events Centre brought professional lacrosse into the heart of the Fraser Valley, where the sport already held deep grassroots appeal. It was a bold move—bringing an NLL team to a smaller market—but one that instantly connected with fans.

The Stealth quickly became known for their hard-nosed style of play and deep community involvement. They weren’t just athletes—they were ambassadors, showing up at local schools, minor lacrosse events, and community initiatives. The roster featured standout talents like Rhys Duch, a scoring powerhouse, and Tyler Richards, one of the league’s most respected goaltenders.

While championships proved elusive during their time in Langley, the Stealth built a loyal fanbase and helped elevate the sport across British Columbia. They brought world-class lacrosse to local fans, inspired a new generation of players, and left a lasting legacy that would help shape the future of the game in the province.

A New Identity: The Vancouver Warriors (2018–Present)

In 2018, the franchise entered a new era. Acquired by Canucks Sports & Entertainment (CSE), the team was relocated to Rogers Arena in downtown Vancouver and rebranded as the Vancouver Warriors. The move was more than a cosmetic change—it represented a strategic effort to expand the reach of professional lacrosse in B.C. and position it alongside the city’s other major league sports.

With a new home came a new identity: bold black-and-gold uniforms, refreshed branding, and an urban energy aimed at bringing the NLL to a broader audience. The Warriors' arrival in Vancouver's core has made the sport more accessible to city fans, while still honouring its roots in the Lower Mainland’s lacrosse hotbeds.

Carrying the Torch Forward

The Warriors continue to compete in the NLL with a focus on building a competitive roster, growing fan engagement, and creating an unforgettable in-arena experience. They've leaned into the fast-paced nature of the game, offering affordable, high-energy entertainment that appeals to families, sports fans, and lacrosse newcomers alike.

But even with a sleek new look and a downtown address, the Warriors haven’t forgotten where they came from. Many of their players come from B.C. or have deep ties to the local lacrosse scene, and the organization continues to support youth programs and grassroots development initiatives.

A Shared Legacy

The journey from the Vancouver Stealth to the Vancouver Warriors is more than a simple name change—it’s a reflection of how the sport is evolving in British Columbia. It’s a story about adapting to new audiences while staying rooted in community. And at its core, it’s about growing the game for the next generation.

For fans who watched the Stealth battle it out at the Langley Events Centre and for those now cheering on the Warriors at Rogers Arena, the legacy is the same: a love of the game, a commitment to excellence, and a belief in lacrosse as a sport that brings people together.

Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering box lacrosse for the first time, Vancouver’s NLL story is still being written—and it’s one worth following.

Let’s Keep Talking:

Jenny is a business insurance broker with Waypoint Insurance.

She is also a business development consultant with Impresario Partners, helping Canadian Business expand overseas.

She can be reached at 604-317-6755 or jhansen@waypoint.ca. Connect with Jenny on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-holly-hansen-365b691b/.  Connect with Jenny at BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/jennyhollyhansen.bsky.social

Let’s Meet Up:

Jenny Holly Hansen is a cohost with Chris Sturges of the Langley Impact Networking Group. You are welcome to join us on Thursday’s from 4pm to 6pm at: Sidebar Bar and Grill: 100b - 20018 83A Avenue, Langley, BC V2Y 3R4

Tags:  #Jenny Holly Hansen #Langley is Awesome #Vancouver Stealth #Vancouver Warriors #Lacrosse #Natioanl Lacrosse League (NLL)

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