A beaming Harvard embraces the Cannons

Harvard Stadium's new look helped hook a new tenant.

The Boston Cannons of Major League Lacrosse announced yesterday the team was moving its home from Boston University's Nickerson Field to Harvard Stadium for the 2007 season.

"We're thrilled to partner with Harvard University and call Harvard Stadium our home," said Jason Chandler, general manager of the Cannons. "Cannons fans will be very happy with their fan experience at Harvard Stadium. The sightlines are second to none. Fans are right on top of the action. Harvard Stadium is an ideal venue for lacrosse."

The university recently installed a FieldTurf surface and permanent lighting at the stadium, which seats 30,898. Built in 1903, the stadium is the oldest in the United States.

The Cannons said the move will also allow them to enhance the experience for fans. In addition to the larger seating capacity -- Nickerson Field holds 15,000 -- and hospitality options, the team plans to use the surrounding fields on game days for tournaments and other lacrosse-related activities.

"We're excited that the Cannons will be making Harvard Stadium their new home," said Bob Scalise, Harvard's athletic director. "We feel Harvard Stadium is an ideal place to watch top-caliber lacrosse, both at the professional and collegiate level.

The Cannons open their six-game home schedule May 19 when they host the defending MLL champion Philadelphia Barrage. The Barrage knocked out the Cannons, who finished 8-4 in 2006, in the MLL semifinals last season.

Harvard Stadium will be the Cannons' third venue since the team began play in 2001. They played at Lowell's Cawley Stadium for three seasons before moving to BU in 2004.