Supporting the Future of Youth Lacrosse in British Columbia
Born from world-class competition and built on community dedication, the U19 World Lacrosse Foundation provides funding and support to help young athletes and programs grow, compete, and succeed.
Our Commitment to Growing Youth Lacrosse
The U19 World Lacrosse Foundation was established following the success of the 2008 and 2016 Under-19 World Lacrosse Championships held in Coquitlam, BC.
Created as a lasting legacy of these events, the Foundation is dedicated to advancing youth field lacrosse across British Columbia. Supporting both grassroots participation and high-performance athlete development through annual grants.
Our Purpose
We invest in the future of lacrosse by supporting 19 and under:
- Youth field lacrosse programs across British Columbia
- Individual athletes striving to compete at higher levels
- Grassroots initiatives that grow participation in the game
- High-performance pathways, including provincial and national competition
The Legacy Behind the Foundation
The Foundation exists because of the vision and leadership of Cliff Pascas, a lifelong volunteer and champion of youth sport in Port Coquitlam and across British Columbia.
Cliff played a pivotal role in bringing the world to BC, leading the 2008 Under-19 World Lacrosse Championships, BC’s first-ever lacrosse world championship. And again in 2016 with an even larger, internationally celebrated lacrosse event.
His commitment to youth development, community, and the game of lacrosse helped create not only two extraordinary tournaments, but a lasting legacy.
Though he passed in February 2023, Cliff’s impact continues through the Foundation’s ongoing work, supporting young athletes and strengthening the future of lacrosse in BC.
What We Fund
Through our annual grant program, we provide financial assistance (age 19 and younger):
Program Development
- Startup support for new clubs
- Grassroots initiatives that increase youth participation
- Volunteer development at the community level
Team & Athlete Support
- Athletes competing at national and elite levels
- Club team expenses
- Provincial team participation
Who Can Apply
Funding is available to men’s and women’s youth field lacrosse:
- Individual athletes 19 years of age or younger,
- related teams or programs sanctioned by the BC Lacrosse Association.
How It Works
The Legacy Behind the Foundation
- Applications Open
Each spring, applications are accepted from athletes, teams, and programs. - Submission Deadline
All applications must be received by May 31. - Review Process
The Foundation’s Board of Directors carefully reviews all submissions. - Grant Awards
Funding decisions are announced in July.
Continuing the Legacy
Established through the proceeds of the 2008 and 2016 world championships, the Foundation continues to invest in the next generation of players, leaders, and communities.
Every grant awarded carries forward a shared commitment to opportunity, development, and the growth of lacrosse across British Columbia.