By: Women’s Fitness Asia

In a groundbreaking achievement, the Philippine women’s lacrosse team has earned its first-ever berth in the prestigious 2026 World Lacrosse Women’s Championship. The team’s remarkable journey unfolded at the 2025 Asia-Pacific Women’s Lacrosse Championship held in Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia, where their dominant performances against formidable opponents captivated the lacrosse community.
On January 7, 2025, the Filipinas etched their name in history with a commanding 14-2 victory over Hong Kong, securing their ticket to the global stage. Sarah Nelson spearheaded the triumph with an outstanding four-goal performance, while Ria Lagdameo contributed a spectacular hat trick. This decisive win followed their earlier 15-3 demolition of China, where Kalena Johnson and Steph Lazo each delivered four goals, and Caroline Roxas notched a hat trick. These back-to-back victories demonstrated the team’s prowess and determination.

The Philippine team’s success is particularly noteworthy as they overcame two world-ranked opponents—Hong Kong at No. 16 and China at No. 19—despite being an unranked squad entering the tournament. Their victories signify a rapid ascent in the lacrosse world and highlight the team’s grit, skill, and unwavering spirit.
The Sport of Lacrosse
Lacrosse is a contact team sport that is played with a stick and a ball, much like a combination of field and ice hockey. Lacrosse’s origin is among the Native Americans. The sport has been part of the Olympics since 1904 and 1908 and as a demonstration activity in 1928, 1932, and 1948. It will make a triumphant return to the Olympics in 2028, promising to bring more attention to this fast-paced and dynamic sport.

The Journey Ahead with the Philippine Lacrosse Team
With this historic qualification, the Philippines joins elite company, alongside Chinese Taipei and host nation Australia, in the World Lacrosse Women’s Championship set to take place in Tokyo, Japan, in 2026. While the team has already made history, their journey in the Asia-Pacific qualifiers continues as they prepare to face the powerhouse Australian team later this week.

The trailblazing Philippine women’s lacrosse team features a roster of talented athletes, including Olivia Pugh, Kaitlynn Lazaro, Caroline Roxas, Ria Lagdameo, Abigail Beattie, Kaila Stasulli, Daryl Coss, Andrea Macalalad, Sarah Nelson, Kylie Yap, Lizzie de Guzman, Bailey Truex, Cat Roxas, Carolyn Carrera, Nia Carrera, Mallory Ngitngit, Minka Martinez, and Cailey Canessa. Each player’s dedication and teamwork have been pivotal in the team’s success.
A Promising Horizon
The Philippine women’s lacrosse team’s historic qualification not only underscores their talent but also represents a significant milestone for the sport in the country. Their journey to the World Lacrosse Women’s Championship inspires hope for further growth and development of lacrosse in the Philippines. As the team takes the global stage in 2026, they carry with them the pride and aspirations of a nation eager to make its mark in the international lacrosse arena.

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