Pocatello Bandits Bringing Lacrosse Buzz to Eastern Idaho
POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI) — Lacrosse is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country, and that growth is making its way to Eastern Idaho and Western Wyoming.
The Great Western Lacrosse League now features 18 varsity high school teams stretching from Spokane, Washington, to Jackson Hole, Wyoming. And this weekend, the spotlight shifts to Southeast Idaho as the Pocatello Bandits host a state playoff game for the first time in program history.
While lacrosse is still growing in the region, the passion for the game is already strong.
The Bandits bring together athletes from across Southeast Idaho, creating a unique team atmosphere built around speed, skill, and physicality. With the state tournament now coming to Pocatello, players are excited for the chance to compete on their home turf.
“We’re looking to go cause havoc, have some fun on our home turf,” Bandits coach Ryan Guerrero said. “You can leave it all out on the field.”
For senior Ruben Guerrero, Ryan's son, lacrosse has become much more than just a hobby. After picking up the sport in eighth grade, Guerrero is now preparing to continue his lacrosse career at the University of Idaho.
“I’m excited to take my skills up to the next level,” Guerrero said. “It’s a great atmosphere up there and a fun team to play with.”
Guerrero says lacrosse stands apart from other sports because it combines physical play with technical skill.
“It’s all about stick work and the technical side of it,” Guerrero said. “There’s some physicality on defense, but overall it’s just a really fun sport.”
That excitement is already spreading to the next generation of players.
Young lacrosse player McKinley says she loves the game because it’s become a family tradition.
“My brother and my dad did it, and my little brother is going to do it next year,” McKinley said.
She also hopes lacrosse stays part of her future for years to come.
“For a long time,” she said when asked how long she wants to play. “I want to play in college.”
The Bandits open state tournament play Saturday in Pocatello. Players and coaches also wanted to give a special thank-you to Century High School for allowing the team to use its turf field for both practices and the state tournament games.
And for the big weekend, the football field is getting a fresh lacrosse makeover with new field paint ready for playoff action.
