Fawn Porter Leads Haudenosaunee in Quest for World Lacrosse Glory!

Auburndale, Florida, USA - As the vibrant summer atmosphere begins to settle over Florida, the excitement builds for Fawn Porter, a celebrated box lacrosse player and member of the Six Nations. Porter is eager for her chance to shine as she competes for the Haudenosaunee Nationals in the upcoming Pan-American Lacrosse Association (PALA) women’s tournament. This historic event runs from June 26-30 in Auburndale, Florida, and promises to be a thrilling showcase of talent with eight competitive teams vying for top honors.

Porter is part of a well-rounded roster of 22 players representing the Haudenosaunee, a team that has made significant strides in recent years. It’s not just about winning; the team’s performance could secure them a spot in the world women’s field tournament set for next year in Japan. With the top four teams from the PALA tournament advancing, the stakes couldn’t be higher.

The Road to Florida

The competition in Auburndale will bring together teams from various nations, including Canada, Argentina, Jamaica, Mexico, Peru, Puerto Rico, and the United States, all aiming for a coveted position in the world championship. The Haudenosaunee Nationals, who previously exhibited their skill by clinching a gold medal at the 2023 PALA Sixes Cup, are currently ranked eighth globally and are determined to improve come tournament day.

The team has a strong lineup led by seasoned athletes like Alie and Jalyn Jimerson, who bring a wealth of experience and offensive prowess to the field. Alie has played at two World Championships and holds an impressive collegiate record with 172 points, while Jalyn tied for the team lead in points during the last World Championship. Lois Garlow, another key player, was recognized for her achievements on the All-MAAC First Team, adding depth to the already strong roster.

Building on Past Success

The Haudenosaunee Nationals women’s program has shown exceptional growth, finishing eighth at the 2022 World Games and claiming seventh place in 2023. This upward trajectory was highlighted last year when the team made history by winning a bronze medal at the World Lacrosse Championship in Utica, New York. This was a groundbreaking moment as it represented the first international championship medal ever awarded to the Haudenosaunee women in lacrosse. The bronze medal game saw the team dominate Australia with a 21-4 scoreline, showcasing not only their skill but also the rich cultural connection Indigenous peoples have with the sport, often referred to as the Creator’s Game.

Coached by Taylor Frink, who brings collegiate coaching experience and a history with the Haudenosaunee, the team’s staff is committed to supporting these athletes as they strive for excellence. Amongst a talented coaching crew, Claudia Jimerson leads as the Director of Women’s Lacrosse Operations. Both Frink and veteran goalie Paige Crandall express confidence in the roster, eager to display their development and competitive spirit in Florida.

As the PALA tournament approaches, the anticipation is palpable. The Haudenosaunee Nationals have a golden opportunity ahead — not just to compete but to make history yet again in a sport deeply woven into their identity. With community strength behind them and a growing legacy in sports, one can only wait in optimism for what these talented athletes will achieve.

For more details and updates, visit Turtle Island News, Haudenosaunee Nationals, and National Indigenous Athletic Hall of Fame.