Randy Staats


Randy Staats is an Iroquois professional lacrosse player with the Halifax Thunderbirds in the National Lacrosse League and the Six Nations Chiefs of the Major Series Lacrosse. He was drafted 6th overall by the Georgia Swarm in the 2015 NLL Entry Draft. He also played in the Premier Lacrosse League and Major League Lacrosse, drafted 29th overall in the 2015 MLL Entry Draft.

Early career and education

After attending McKinnon Park Secondary School, Randy Staats began his collegiate lacrosse career at Onondaga Community College, where he was a standout player. In the two seasons he played for OCC, the team went undefeated and won the NJCAA national championship both years. He joined the Syracuse Orange in 2014 after his two years at OCC. At Syracuse, he earned USILA Honorable Mention All-American, Inside Lacrosse Preseason Second Team All-American, and ACC All-Tournament Team honors.

Professional career

Drafted 6th overall by the Georgia Swarm in the 2015 NLL Entry Draft, Staats quickly established himself as a key player. He made a significant impact in his rookie season, earning the 2016 NLL Rookie of the Year award after producing 95 points, setting a rookie point record at the time. Throughout his career, Staats has played for several teams, including the Swarm, Panther City Lacrosse Club, and most recently, the Halifax Thunderbirds
In the MLL, Staats was a two-time All-Star and won the 2020 championship with the Cannons.
He is the brother of fellow professional lacrosse player Austin Staats and cousin of Cody Jamieson.

Personal life and advocacy

Staats is also a prominent figure in promoting the sport, especially among Indigenous communities. He has been an advocate of the inclusion of the Haudenosaunee, who lack International Olympic Committee recognition, in the 2028 Olympics.

Statistics

MLL

NCAA