SCOTT NEISS created the Israel Lacrosse Association in 2010, before officially making Aliyah in 2012. His efforts have resulted in hundreds of people visiting Israel, some even making Aliyah. Scott structured the ILA to create opportunities for Diaspora Jews to come to Israel, and to get hands-on in developing the sport at a grassroots level.  In the short time the ILA has existed, Scott’s efforts have resulted in hundreds of Jewish lacrosse players, coaches, and referees coming to Israel.  The Israel Premier Lacrosse League is now in its third year, with eight teams — including in the periphery development towns of Kiryat Gat and Sderot — featuring players from across Israel and throughout the world.  The kids there are extremely enthusiastic and the players have such a variety of backgrounds, despite lacrosse’s reputation for being an elitist sport.

Neiss has also spearheaded the Israel national team program, which most recently earned a 2nd place finish at the European Lacrosse Championships. Additionally, it was just recently announced that Israel won the bid to host the World Lacrosse Championships in Israel in July 2018. There will be 50 countries and 2,000 athletes attending the Championship in Israel.