Westonbirt lacrosse players are set to represent their countries in Hong Kong this summer

Two of our Westonbirt athletes are poised to showcase their skills on the global stage as they prepare to represent their respective countries at the World Lacrosse 2024 Women’s U20 Championship. This takes place in Hong Kong between August 15th-24th; the first time the event has been held in Asia.

Former Head Girl Carys Johnson has been selected to play for England and current Year 13 Francesca Di Mauro for Italy. Both started their lacrosse careers here at Westonbirt and Coach Peter Wilson is absolutely thrilled for them:

He said:

“From the moment they first picked up a lacrosse stick, I’ve had the privilege of coaching them through every pass, every shot, and every ground ball. Watching them grow and excel throughout their school career has been truly inspiring. To see them now, being selected to represent their countries and competing against each other alongside the best in the world, fills me with immense pride and excitement. Both girls have worked tirelessly over the years and they fully deserve this amazing achievement. Fran’s journey, especially, has been remarkable. After enduring a major knee injury and battling through recovery, her determination and resilience has been incredible. To witness her overcome such adversity and earn her spot despite the setback is nothing short of exceptional. I wish both girls the best of luck and I can’t wait to watch them play. I know they will make us all proud!”

Interest in lacrosse is growing globally; after a century-long hiatus, the sport makes a triumphant return to the Olympic stage for the 2028 Games in California. The allure of potential gold medal opportunities on offer intensifies the excitement of competing internationally for these players.

Di Mauro has already showcased her defensive prowess this year, helping Westonbirt securing a place in the top eight at the National School Championships. Despite having reconstructive surgery after an ACL injury in March 2023, she remained determined to pursue her dream of taking her skills overseas. Although her injury sidelined her for the first half of the current lacrosse season, she persevered through rigorous rehabilitation.

Di Mauro said:

“It’s an honour and a thrill to represent Italy on the global stage in Hong Kong, facing off against teams from across the world. I’m bursting with pride and excitement for the opportunity ahead.”

Johnson graduated in 2023 and has since continued her lacrosse career at the University of Nottingham, where she has been an essential part of the team, contributing to their advancement to the championship game this year. Additionally, she played a pivotal role in England’s gold medal victory last year at the ELF Women’s U21 Championships in Prague.

Reflecting on her achievements, Johnson said:

“Making the U20 England World Cup Squad feels amazing. Having invested so much hard work to reach the position I am in now, I eagerly anticipate continuing to train with such an incredible team.”

Win or lose, their journey represents the culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice and unwavering determination. Westonbirt will be eagerly following their progress through the event and wishes them the best of luck.