Paul Rabil Bio
Paul Rabil is an American sports executive and retired professional lacrosse player, known for his exceptional skills and contributions to the sport. He was born on December 14, 1985, in Gaithersburg, Maryland. Rabil played collegiate lacrosse at Johns Hopkins University, where he distinguished himself with multiple All-America honors and record-breaking performances. After a successful professional career spanning over a decade, he co-founded the Premier Lacrosse League, aiming to enhance the sport’s visibility and players’ earnings. His philanthropic efforts include assisting children with learning disabilities through the Paul Rabil Foundation. Rabil continues to influence the lacrosse community both through his business ventures and development initiatives.
Early Life and Background
Paul Rabil was born on December 14, 1985, in Gaithersburg, Maryland, to Allan and Jean Anne Rabil. His mother was a Catholic school art teacher, while his father worked in sales for a printing company and encouraged his son to try many sports. Rabil grew up in Montgomery Village and completed his education at a local public school. During his childhood, he pursued various interests, including basketball, soccer, swimming, and music, but ultimately fell in love with lacrosse, largely due to his mother’s insistence.
Rabil secured a spot as a starting player on the varsity team during his freshman year at Watkins Mill High School. After attracting interest from several local private high schools, he transferred to DeMatha Catholic High School in Hyattsville, Maryland. During his three-year tenure at DeMatha, Rabil led the team to three Washington Catholic Athletic Conference championships and amassed 288 career points, including 80 goals and 73 assists. His outstanding performance earned him All-American honors and made him the #4 ranked prospect in the high school class of 2004.
Path to Lacrosse
Rabil began his collegiate career at Johns Hopkins University in the Fall of 2004. Despite facing challenges due to a condition called auditory processing disorder, he made an immediate impact on the lacrosse field. In 2005, he had a notable freshman season, tallying 37 points and helping secure the national championship for Johns Hopkins. Rabil continued to excel, earning multiple All-American honors and leading the program to its ninth national title in 2007.
After graduating in 2008 with a degree in political science and a minor in entrepreneurship and management, Rabil was drafted 1st overall by the Boston Cannons in the Major League Lacrosse Collegiate Draft. His rookie season in 2008 saw him participate in the MLL All-Star Game, quickly establishing himself as a key player in the league.
Paul Rabil Career
Early Career (2008-2011)
Rabil’s professional career began with the Boston Cannons, where he made an immediate impact. In his rookie season, he was named to the MLL All-Star Game and continued to build on his success in subsequent years. He won the MLL MVP and Offensive Player of the Year awards multiple times, showcasing his scoring ability and playmaking skills. Rabil led the Cannons to their first MLL championship in 2011, solidifying his status as one of the league’s top players.
In 2012, Rabil broke the all-time points record in a season, further establishing his legacy in the sport. He continued to earn accolades, including multiple All-Star selections and First Team All-Pro honors throughout his career.
Breakthrough (2018-2021)
Rabil’s career took a significant turn when he co-founded the Premier Lacrosse League in 2018 with his brother, Mike Rabil. The league aimed to provide better opportunities for lacrosse players and increase the sport’s visibility. Rabil played for the Atlas Lacrosse Club in the PLL, contributing to the league’s inaugural season in 2019.
After a successful playing career, Rabil retired from professional lacrosse in 2021 to focus on the business side of the PLL and his other ventures. His influence on the sport continues through his leadership role in the league and his philanthropic efforts to promote lacrosse among youth.
Notable Works and Milestones
Rabil is recognized as one of the greatest lacrosse players of all time, holding the record for most career points in professional lacrosse. He has been inducted into the Pro Lacrosse Hall of Fame and the USA Lacrosse Hall of Fame, both in 2025, marking significant milestones in his career.
Paul Rabil Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Paul Rabil has received numerous nominations for his outstanding performance in lacrosse, including multiple All-American selections and recognition as a top player in Major League Lacrosse.
Paul Rabil Awards Won
Paul Rabil has won several prestigious awards during his career, including multiple MLL MVP and Offensive Player of the Year awards. He was inducted into the Pro Lacrosse Hall of Fame and the USA Lacrosse Hall of Fame in 2025, highlighting his significant contributions to the sport.
Paul Rabil Family
Paul Rabil is the son of Allan and Jean Anne Rabil. He was previously married to former lacrosse player Kelly Berger from 2014 to 2017. Currently, he is in a relationship with British actress Vanessa Kirby.
Personal Life
Rabil has been open about his struggles with learning disabilities, including Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and auditory processing disorder. He founded the Paul Rabil Foundation in 2011 to assist children with learning disabilities, reflecting his commitment to giving back to the community and promoting access to sports for all children.