Winning Medals and Winning Hearts: Women’s U19 World Lacrosse Championship Unites World with Spirit of Sportsmanship
USA wins gold in Women’s U19 World Championships after 10 days of celebrating sport and culture
After 81 games between 22 teams, the Women’s U19 World Lacrosse Championships came to a close on August 10, with a spectacular final face-off between Team Canada and Team USA. The 10-day championship brought together 525 athletes from 22 countries, and energized and inspired the community at Trent and in Peterborough.
“At Trent, we believe that sport has the ability to bring the world together – and this championship has certainly exemplified that international camaraderie,” said Dr. Leo Groarke, president and vice-chancellor of Trent University. “Thank you to the athletes, teams, organizers and volunteers whose talent and spirit have been truly inspiring.”
This was the second time that Trent University has hosted this tournament – having first hosted the championship in 2007.
While top talent was on display during every game, the tournament was marked by memorable moments of cheering fans—some who traveled thousands of kilometres to attend -- performances honouring the traditional history of lacrosse, and genuine kindness and camaraderie amongst players from different countries.
Attendees saw uproarious cheers of fans from Puerto Rico and Australia, who brought such engaging energy that members of the local community came out to cheer on these teams.
The Indigenous roots of the sport were highlighted by the presence of the Haudenosaunee team, which participated for the first time in the world championships since the team disbanded in 1999.
The Kenyan team was given a warm welcome from all teams and supporters as the first African team to enter the international competition. The Kenyan players were also met with generosity by local community members who opened their doors for the players to stay during the tournament. The team from Israel also gifted cleats to the Kenyan players after noticing that they did not have any for a rainy game.
This caliber of sport and spirit was a fitting showcase of Trent’s facilities and athletic achievements, and will pave the way for another great season for Excalibur varsity student-athletes.
“To see the outstanding athleticism as well as the sportsmanship between the teams is a true reflection of a high performance world class competition,” said Deborah Bright-Brundle, director of athletics and recreation at Trent University. “Seeing such sporting excellence is a great way to launch the start of the varsity season, and our Excalibur varsity student-athletes and coaches will be returning to campus shortly to start their training camps. Having hosted a world class competition is a great inspiration to us all.”