Haudenosaunee Nationals Women’s Box Lacrosse

The Haudenosaunee Nationals Women’s Box Lacrosse Team made history in 2024, earning their place as trailblazers in international lacrosse. Competing at the 2024 World Lacrosse Championship in Utica, New York, the team clinched a historic bronze medal—the first-ever international championship medal awarded to the Haudenosaunee women in lacrosse.

The Haudenosaunee women showcased extraordinary skill, resilience, and unity throughout the tournament, culminating in a commanding 21-4 victory over Team Australia in the bronze medal game. This landmark achievement not only brought pride to Indigenous communities across Turtle Island but also underscored the Haudenosaunee’s cultural and spiritual connection to lacrosse, known as the Creator’s Game.

Comprised of athletes from Haudenosaunee and other Indigenous Nations, the team reflected the strength of community, tradition, and perseverance. Team members included:

Akwesasne Mohawk Territory
Jillian Benedict, Jadie Burns, Trysten Burns, Kharlene "Bineh" Garrow, Tallis Tarbell and Kyra Thompson

Fort Albany First Nation
Mekwan Tulpin

Kanesatake First Nation
Ava Gabriel

Oneida Nation of the Thames
Jada Doxtator

Seneca Nation
Lindsay John

Six Nations of the Grand River
Timmia Bomberry, Chelsea Doolittle, Chelsea Gibson, Amalee Jacobs, Kenley Jacobs, Chelsie John, Trisha John, Fawn Porter, Stacy Smith, Alisha Smith-Longboat, Joni Squire-Hill and Carey-Leigh Vyse

Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory
Kendall Tabobandung

Walpole Island First Nation
Ferrah Blackbird

Wikwemikong Unceded Territory
Mackenzie Shigwadja and Reese Shigwadja

Team Staff
Head Coach, Jason Johnson, Onondaga
Assistant Coach, Randy Chrysler, Tuscarora
Assistant Coach, Cheyenne Lazore, Akwesasne Mohawk
Assistant Coach, Mary James, Métis
Assistant Coach / Video Analyst, Matt Attwood, Six Nations of the Grand River
Trainer / Dietician, Paul Staats, Six Nations of the Grand River
Player Liaison, Karissa John, Six Nations of the Grand River
General Manager, Jeff Powless, Akwesasne Mohawk

Their triumph exemplifies the power of Indigenous women in sports and serves as an enduring testament to the Haudenosaunee’s deep-rooted lacrosse legacy. By earning a place on the international podium, these women broke barriers, inspired future generations, and strengthened the path toward greater recognition of Indigenous athletes on the world stage.

The 2024 bronze medal not only marked a pivotal moment in lacrosse history but also symbolized the enduring sovereignty and resilience of the Haudenosaunee people.