National Lacrosse League (1974–75)

The National Lacrosse League (NLL) existed as a professional box lacrosse league for two seasons, 1974 and 1975. It represented an early attempt to establish a major professional lacrosse league in North America. The league was distinct from the later, and more successful, NLL that began play in 1987 and continues to operate today.

The inaugural 1974 season consisted of six teams: the Montreal Quebecois, Quebec Caribous, Toronto Tomahawks, Syracuse Stingers, Rochester Flyers, and Philadelphia Wings. The Montreal Quebecois defeated the Philadelphia Wings to win the championship.

In 1975, the league underwent some restructuring. The Montreal Quebecois relocated and were renamed the Montreal Voyageurs, and the Quebec Caribous ceased operations. The Toronto Tomahawks moved and became the Toronto Argonauts. The remaining teams, Syracuse, Rochester, and Philadelphia, also returned for the season. The Toronto Argonauts defeated the Rochester Flyers for the 1975 championship.

Despite attracting some talented players and generating some interest, the league faced financial difficulties and ultimately folded after the 1975 season. It is remembered as an early, albeit ultimately unsuccessful, attempt to create a major professional box lacrosse league in North America. The teams and players involved, however, contributed to the history and development of the sport, paving the way for the eventual success of the current National Lacrosse League.