OSHAWA, ON – Lacrosse Canada is pleased to announce two key leadership appointments that will support the organization’s continued growth and success on and off the field.
Dave Stockton has been appointed as High-Performance Director, effective October 16, 2026, and Josh Knoester joined Lacrosse Canada as Chief Operating Officer (COO) on September 21, 2026.
These appointments reinforce Lacrosse Canada’s commitment to excellence in high-performance sport, organizational leadership, and strategic growth as the organization prepares for an exciting future that includes world championship competition and the return of lacrosse to the Olympic Games in Los Angeles in 2028.
Leadership for Canada’s High-Performance Programs
Since joining Lacrosse Canada in a consulting capacity in May 2026, Stockton has played an integral role in advancing the organization’s high-performance strategy and national team programming across box, field, and sixes disciplines.
A respected leader in the Canadian sport system, Stockton brings more than two decades of experience in athlete development, high-performance planning, and organizational leadership. His career includes senior leadership positions with Ontario Basketball, Golf Canada, Canada Basketball, and Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment.
“Dave has brought tremendous leadership, expertise, and stability to our high-performance programs,” said Lori DeGraw, Chief Executive Officer of Lacrosse Canada. “His vision for athlete and coach development, combined with his deep understanding of Canada’s sport system, will be invaluable as we continue building programs capable of competing with the best in the world.”
As High-Performance Director, Stockton will oversee the strategic direction and execution of Lacrosse Canada’s high-performance pathway, supporting athletes, coaches, and national team staff while leading preparations for future international competitions.
Strengthening Organizational Operations
Knoester joins Lacrosse Canada as Chief Operating Officer, bringing extensive experience in sport administration, organizational leadership, partner relations, and business operations, including building the success for nearly nine years as part of the founding staff of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL), including most recently as COO.
As COO at Lacrosse Canada, he will be responsible for overseeing the organization’s day-to-day operations, finance, supporting strategic initiatives, strengthening relationships with members and partners, and helping ensure Lacrosse Canada continues to evolve as a modern, high-performing national sport organization.
“Josh is a highly collaborative and solutions-focused leader who understands the importance of operational excellence in supporting the growth of our sport,” said DeGraw. “His experience and leadership will be instrumental as we continue to enhance our programs, services, and overall impact across the Canadian lacrosse community.”
Building the Future of Lacrosse in Canada
Together, Stockton and Knoester bring complementary expertise that will help advance Lacrosse Canada’s strategic priorities while supporting the organization’s athletes, members, volunteers, coaches, officials, and partners.
“These appointments represent an important investment in our future,” said DeGraw. “Dave and Josh are proven leaders who share our commitment to excellence, innovation, and collaboration. Their collective experience will help position Lacrosse Canada for continued success as we work to grow the game and strengthen Canada’s standing as a global leader in lacrosse.”
Lacrosse Canada welcomes both Dave and Josh to their new roles and looks forward to the contributions they will make in shaping the next chapter of the organization.
About Lacrosse Canada
Lacrosse Canada is the national governing body of Canada’s National Summer Sport. Founded in 1867, Lacrosse Canada is responsible for the governance, promotion, and development of lacrosse across the country and oversees national teams competing internationally in box, field, and sixes lacrosse.
Media Contact
Kealan Pilon
Communications Coordinator
Lacrosse Canada
kealan@lacrosse.ca
lacrosse.ca
