CHICAGO, July 10, 2025 – In a groundbreaking event, Whirlpool brand, a key sponsor of the Premier Lacrosse League (PLL), is set to innovate the lacrosse experience by converting the Chicago River into a floating arena. This extraordinary setup marks the league’s return to Chicago for the first time since 2019, with a two-day game series scheduled for July 11-12 at Northwestern Medicine Field.
Fans of lacrosse are poised to witness history as the first-ever professional lacrosse match is played on water. The specially designed field, which rests on a Chicago River Tour Boat, will cruise on a three-hour loop around the river, departing from 900 W Wells. This unique venture will not only entertain dedicated followers of the sport but also captivate the attention of locals and tourists alike as the boat traverses key areas between Lake Street and Michigan Avenue.
The event promises visibility along the River Walk, with the boat making stops that enable PLL players to demonstrate their skills to those gathered along the scenic waterways. This activation is part of Whirlpool brand’s ongoing commitment to connect with communities by promoting access to sport, following their support of the newly formed Women’s Lacrosse League (WLL) as a founding partner in late 2024.
Paul Rabil, co-founder and president of the Premier Lacrosse League, expressed his excitement, stating, “We’re putting a lacrosse field on a river boat and playing 3v3 in the heart of downtown Chicago – how cool is that? This event is celebrating our sport in a way only PLL can. Big thanks to Whirlpool brand for helping us make this vision a reality.”
Emily Spaeter, Integrated Brand Manager at Whirlpool brand, shared her thoughts on the initiative as well. “The sheer novelty of playing a land sport on water is inherently fun, and this activation brings a fresh twist on one of the fastest-growing sports. Everyone loves the Chicago River; it’s one of the heartbeats of the city. As a sponsor of the PLL and founding partner of the WLL, Whirlpool brand is excited to welcome the league back to Chicago.”
This collaboration between the PLL and Whirlpool brand began in 2023, with Whirlpool playing a pivotal role in bringing the PLL’s eight teams to their respective home markets. Additionally, the company has become the inaugural founding partner of the Maryland Whipsnakes. Through this partnership, both organizations have committed to expanding access to lacrosse, focusing on equipment restoration, community outreach, and delivering social responsibility initiatives.
To enhance the fan experience, the best public viewing area will be strategically positioned along the Chicago Riverwalk, directly across from the World of Whirlpool in the historical Reid Murdoch building. Fans are encouraged to gather there at 1:30 p.m. CT for an up-close view of the action on the water.
Those seeking more information and coverage throughout the weekend’s exciting events can connect with Whirlpool on Instagram, ensuring they don’t miss a moment of this innovative celebration of lacrosse. This event is not just about the games but also about bringing the community together in a shared enthusiasm for the sport, exemplifying Whirlpool’s dedication to improving life at home through its involvement in lacrosse.
As a leading kitchen and laundry appliance brand, Whirlpool Corporation continues to strive for innovation while meeting the evolving needs of consumers. In 2024, the company reported approximately $17 billion in annual sales, with a significant portion stemming from its operations in the Americas, and employs about 44,000 individuals across 40 manufacturing and technology research centers.
The Premier Lacrosse League itself is a standout in North American professional sports, featuring eight teams filled with elite players. Co-founded by Paul Rabil and his brother Mike, and supported by an investment group with notable backing in the sports arena, the PLL showcases its games on various platforms, including an exclusive media rights agreement with ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPN+.
In summary, the floating lacrosse games on the Chicago River not only represent a unique moment in professional sports but also signify Whirlpool brand’s commitment to fostering sporting experiences and community engagement. As both players and fans gear up for this exciting weekend, the ripple effect of this event promises to strengthen the ties within the lacrosse community and beyond.
image source from：prnewswire
