Trysten Burns, a senior attacker on the Newberry College women's lacrosse team, recently had the opportunity to represent the Haudenosaunee Confederacy at the 2024 Women's Lacrosse World Box Championship.

Not only was it an honor for Burns to represent the Haudenosaunee people and their rich history in the sport of lacrosse, but the experience also left an indelible mark on her as a player and person.

Trysten, along with her sister Jadie and 21 other teammates, are the first women's lacrosse team from the Haudenosaunee Confederacy to earn a medal at an international competition.  They did so by defeating Australia 21-4 in the Bronze Medal match on September 28 in Utica, New York.

Trysten, who served as an assistant captain, was the second leading scorer for the team, netting 12 goals and dishing out 12 assists in seven games while Jadie, who suffered an injury during the tournament, finished with a goal and an assist in five games.

After dropping their firs two games to the United States and England, the Haudenosaunee Confederacy rallied to earn a 17-3 win over Hong Kong, 19-4 over Netherlands and 7-2 over Germany to earn a spot in the medal round.

History and heritage
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For those who may not know, the Haudenosaunee Confederacy is made up of six Indigenous Nations in North America that believe the Creator gave them the sport of lacrosse to play for his enjoyment. The Haudenosaunee are the originators of the sport, and it holds significant cultural and spiritual importance for them.

However, in the past, it was believed that women were not allowed to play the sport of lacrosse. Therefore, for Burns and her teammates, playing at the World Box Championship meant more than just competing in a tournament. It was about carrying forward the legacy of their ancestors and showcasing the progress that has been made for Haudenosaunee women in the sport.

"It means everything to me to be able to represent my people at the international level," Burns said. "Being able to witness firsthand how far we have come as Haudenosaunee women gives me such a huge sense of pride and responsibility, and I'm so excited for the future of this program."

Uniting the world
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As a self-proclaimed "open-minded person," Burns didn't have many expectations heading into the tournament in Utica, N.Y. She was simply excited for the opportunity to compete at the highest level and represent her people.

However, the experience far exceeded any expectations she may have had. The tournament brought together athletes from around the world, all united by their love for lacrosse.
"To see so many individuals from around the world come together solely due to their love for the game of lacrosse was an amazing sight to see," Burns said. "I couldn't have asked for anything better."

One of the most heartwarming moments for Burns was trading shirts with a player from Team England. This gesture symbolized the camaraderie and sportsmanship that transcends borders and cultures, highlighting the global nature of the sport.

A bronze medal to remember
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On the field, the Haudenosaunee team made history by earning a bronze medal. Burns, who scored a goal in the third-place game against Israel, described the achievement as a "huge accomplishment."

"Placing third and earning a medal at the first-ever box championships for the women's division was so special, especially accomplishing this along with this amazing group of women," Burns said. "We fully believed in one another, and everyone from the players right down to the training and coaching staff played their role in this accomplishment."

For Burns, the most important game of the tournament was their first match against the USA. It was a pivotal moment for the team to come together and show the world what they were capable of achieving.

"The responsibility rested upon us as a team to set the tone for who we are as Haudenosaunee people and the values our team encompasses," Burns said. "It was important to show everyone who we are and what we can do."

A changed perspective
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Beyond the on-field achievements, Burns learned valuable life lessons from her experience at the World Box Championship.

She realized the importance of not taking anything for granted and being grateful for the opportunities she has been given.

"I wake up every day and give thanks for all that I have and the amazing opportunities I've been given," Burns said. "I've learned to enjoy the present moment and be more mindful to take opportunities to slow down and take time to enjoy the chapter you are at in your life."

As she returns to Newberry College, Burns carries this newfound perspective with her. She is determined to share these lessons with her teammates and inspire them to appreciate the privileges they have as student-athletes.

"We are very fortunate to be in the position we're in, and we've been given opportunities that others may not have had access to," Burns said. "Just remember to give thanks for what we have."

A lifetime of memories
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Representing the Haudenosaunee Confederacy at the World Box Championship was an experience that Burns will cherish for a lifetime. It was a chance to honor her heritage, compete at the highest level, and forge connections with athletes from around the world.

"It was so special to be a part of the inaugural Women's Lacrosse Box Championship, especially being able to represent Team Haudenosaunee," Burns said. "The memories I've made with my team and the Haudenosaunee program are something I will cherish for a lifetime."
 
With her heart full of gratitude and a bronze medal around her neck, Burns returns to Newberry College ready to embrace the upcoming lacrosse season with a renewed sense of purpose and appreciation.
Through her journey, she hopes to inspire others to embrace their heritage, seize every opportunity, and always give thanks for the blessings in their lives.