Position: Forward in indoor (box) lacrosse; Attackman in field lacrosse
Shoots: Right-hand
Height: 6’1″
Weight: Approximately 180 lbs (82 kg)
College Career (Albany Great Danes – University at Albany)
Lyle joined the University at Albany in 2012 as one of the top recruits in the country.
From 2012 to 2015, he set Division I records for career points (400) and assists (225).
Lyle won the Tewaaraton Trophy twice (2014, 2015), making him the first male player to win the award back-to-back.
He played alongside his brothers Miles Thompson and cousin Ty Thompson, forming the famous “Thompson Trio”, considered one of the best attack lines in NCAA history.
Lyle’s college career includes consistent point-scoring, goals, assists, and ground balls.
Professional Career
Indoor Lacrosse (Box Lacrosse / NLL)
Lyle was selected 1st overall in the 2015 National Lacrosse League (NLL) Draft by the Georgia Swarm.
He was named NLL MVP and Championship MVP in 2017, leading his team to a championship win.
In 2019, Lyle was named to the First-Team All-Pro.
Outdoor Lacrosse (Field Lacrosse / MLL & PLL)
Lyle was drafted 1st overall by the Major League Lacrosse (MLL) in 2015, and later played for the Premier Lacrosse League (PLL) with Cannons Lacrosse Club.
In 2022, he was named Attackman of the Year in the PLL.
Cultural and International Significance
Lyle is a proud member of the Haudenosaunee people. For him, lacrosse is more than just a sport — it is a part of his heritage, culture, and identity.
He and his brothers popularized the Indigenous American style of lacrosse, incorporating freestyle stick-handling, creative shots, and fast transitions.
Lyle’s play and philosophy inspire many, especially Indigenous communities, showing how lacrosse connects with tradition and self-identity.
Family and Background
Lyle comes from a lacrosse family. His brothers Miles and Ty Thompson, along with his extended family, have all played professionally, continuing the Thompson family’s legacy in the sport.
He sees lacrosse as more than a game; to him, it’s a spiritual practice that goes beyond recreation.
Why Lyle Thompson is Special
Holds NCAA Division I records for the most career points and assists.
A rare back-to-back winner of the Tewaaraton Trophy.
Has had outstanding success in both indoor and outdoor lacrosse.
Advocates for the cultural and spiritual importance of lacrosse for the Indigenous community.
