World Cup Trail Ends For Mendham LAX Star

Former West Morris Mendham and Lehigh lacrosse standout Lauren Dykstra has brought her talents to the international stage as she helped the Israel Lacrosse team earn a berth in the World Cup quarterfinals, where they fell to host Canada 17-5.

The Federation of International Lacrosse's 2013 Women's World Cup Tournament began in Oshawa, Canada, on July 10 through July 20. Dykstra made her presence known immediately, striking for five goals in a 40-minute exhibition match against the Netherlands at the Oshawa Civic Recreation Complex.

Dykstra continued to provide offensive heat for Israel, tallying five goals in a 19-2 pounding of Korea, four goals in her squad's 19-4 evisceration of Hong Kong and two goals in Israel's 12-11 loss to Japan.

Yesterday's 12-9 win over New Zealand has positioned Israel in a showdown with host Canada.

"It is really exciting to be here and to play against Canada, who is one of the best teams in the word," Dykstra said.

For their part, Dykstra said the Israeli team is thrilled to be competing on the international level.

"This is our first World Cup," Dykstra said. "Although the team has been around for three years."

Mendham Roots

Dykstra began her athletic career in Mendham playing soccer and softball. She had never seriously picked up a lacrosse stick until her freshman year at West Morris Mendham High School.

"I was a soccer player and my coach freshman year said I really should try lacrosse," Dykstra said.

This paired Dykstra with legendary Mendham lacrosse coach Jessica Shoulberg. It is Shoulberg and Shoulberg's husband Charlie that Dykstra credits with preparing her for the sport.

"They knew how to find athletes. And they constantly had me in clinics and worked with me so I could pick up the sport quickly," Dykstra said. "I learned so much from them. They made sure I got the stick skills I needed."

Dykstra said that the Shoulbergs were instrumental in helping her find a home at Lehigh University, where she continued her lacrosse career and that connection led her to the Israel team.

"A girl tried out from Lehigh University for the team and the coach the Israel team had spokne to my college coach and then my name was dropped and then it sort went from there," Dykstra said.

Giving Back

Joining the Israel team was exciting for more than one reason for Dykstra. Not only did she have the opportunity to play the sport she loved on an international level, but she was afforded the chance to make a meaningful difference. 

"We went to Israel first and spread the word of the sport because its really new there," Dykstra said.

"When I play I represent a shelter,  Bet Elazraki Children's Home. The children there come from broken homes and this foundation that is motivated towards improving the lives of children. I met all of these little girls and it was an amazing experience. We were there role models for them in some ways. We did clinics for them and showed them the sport and that I thought was just amazing."

According to their website, the Israel Lacrosse is committed to developing the sport of lacrosse in Israel, to raise funds for the continuing development of the sport of lacrosse in Israel, and to generally support, encourage, and promote lacrosse in Israel.

Dykstra, who currently lives and works full time in Manhattan, said that the team has come together quickly, wants to help in any way she can. 

"I want to stay involved with the team as much as I can going forward," Dykstra said.