Violet P. ’27 selected for the Jamaica Under 20 Women’s National Lacrosse Team
April 4, 2025
When Violet P. ’27 learned that the Jamaica Under 20 Women’s National Lacrosse team was holding tryouts in January, she did not hesitate to sign up. Along with participating in the tryouts in Providence, Violet traveled to Washington, D.C., for a second round of selections. “A month later, I received the news that I was selected to be part of the team, and I was just really proud to have the opportunity to represent my grandmother’s country of origin!” says Violet. “I am the youngest player on the team, and it is cool to be part of the team’s next generation. I get to play with teammates from all different life stages–some of whom are in college. It feels like a different world to me, and I am happy to play in a space where black women are represented.”
Violet, who is also a member of the Wheeler Girls Lacrosse team, explains the unique structure of playing at an international level. Since team members are located around the world, there are no regular team practices. Instead, players are expected to travel during competition seasons and for tournaments, with practice sessions occurring just before the games. “This approach is common among international teams,” she says, “and I will be joining the team in Florida in June.” Violet acknowledges that being part of a team that doesn’t practice regularly will require her to develop her skills independently and maintain her fitness through her activities at Wheeler. “Since the team has only played together during tryouts, I am excited to see how we will perform. I’m optimistic, given the strong synergy we’ve experienced.”
Violet says she developed that sense of optimism – and versatility – as a student-athlete at Wheeler. “Being part of the Wheeler Warriors pushed me to expand my game and be able to attack from all areas of the field and make an impact everywhere on the field. That versatility has been taught to me in every sport that I play, including field hockey. Sometimes I play high, sometimes I drop back to sweep. That kind of positional versatility, combined with regular practice, keeps me in shape. The Wheeler Athletics team does a great job of conditioning athletes, and teaching us how to work hard, be competitive, and be able to work as a team.”
Violet’s first encounter with lacrosse in 7th grade was actually a surprise, when her mother unexpectedly dropped her off at a Providence Youth Lacrosse practice. Although she hadn’t initially chosen to play the sport, she couldn’t stop smiling after that first practice, which sparked a lasting passion for the game.
As a new member of the Jamaica Under-20 Women’s National Lacrosse Team, Violet hopes to make a meaningful impact and enhance her skills to support her team’s goals. She also aims to inspire others who look like her to take up the sport. “Throughout most of my lacrosse experiences, I’ve often been the only Black girl on the team or one of just two. A personal goal of mine is to introduce the game to as many people as possible!”
Congratulations on this amazing accomplishment, Violet!
