Kevin Crowley has set his sights on helping Hong Kong youngsters achieve their Olympic lacrosse dream, saying there is “no shame in aiming high” – something he should know about leading a team is his first international coaching experience.
And the Canadian, regarded as one of the best men’s players of the modern era, is off to a flying start, having channeled his new form at last weekend’s Asian Lacrosse Games in Mainland China, despite only meeting them remotely in preparation.
Crowley admitted that reaching the 2028 Games in Los Angeles would be a “huge challenge” and while he was realistic about what lay ahead he added that he “wouldn’t say if there wasn’t a slim chance”.
In the short term, the 37-year-old’s immediate goal is to lead his team through the crucial Olympic qualifying round, starting with the Asia-Pacific Lacrosse Sixes Championship in October.
Up for grabs on Australia’s Sunshine Coast will be five spots at the 2027 World Lacrosse Sixes Championship, where as many as 16 teams will compete for four men’s spots at the LA Games.
“We are concerned about improving ourselves and taking the necessary steps to be as competitive as possible,” Crowley said. “It will come from the commitment of the players to improve their game. I think we can do that and we will be disappointed if we don’t get there. But that is what we are aiming for at the moment.”
