Randy Staats

Randy Staats, born on November 23, 1992, in Six Nations, Ontario, has established himself as a notable force in professional lacrosse. His career began with a standout collegiate performance at Onondaga Community College, where he contributed to undefeated seasons and two NJCAA national championships. He later transferred to Syracuse University, earning USILA Honorable Mention All-American honors. His professional journey commenced when he was drafted 6th overall by the Georgia Swarm in the 2015 NLL Entry Draft, and 29th overall in the 2015 MLL Entry Draft, marking the start of a distinguished playing career.

Staats quickly made his mark in the National Lacrosse League, earning the 2016 NLL Rookie of the Year award after setting a rookie point record with 95 points. During his tenure with the Georgia Swarm, he consistently achieved high offensive output, including matching his career-high in assists with 59 and setting new career-highs in goals (37) and points (96) in the 2018-19 season. He surpassed 100 career goals, 200 career assists, and 300 career points, demonstrating his sustained impact. Aside from his NLL success, Staats also played in Major League Lacrosse, where he was a two-time All-Star in 2016 and 2019, and won the championship with the Boston Cannons in 2020.

In recent years, Staats has continued his professional career with the Halifax Thunderbirds, joining them after a trade from Panther City Lacrosse Club. In the 2023 season, he played in 17 games, recording 34 goals and a career-tying 59 assists, accumulating 93 points. Beyond his playing achievements, Staats is also actively involved in promoting lacrosse, particularly within Indigenous communities, and has openly advocated for the inclusion of the Haudenosaunee in the Olympic Games.