Introduction
Lacrosse is a sport deeply rooted in tradition, but it is also evolving. Few embody this evolution better than Shonly Wallace. She’s not just playing the game — she’s changing it. From growing up in British Columbia to competing on the world’s biggest stages, coaching at the collegiate level, and breaking barriers in professional scouting, Shonly is leading the way for the next generation of players.
Her story is one of perseverance, passion, and a deep commitment to the sport. Now, as an ambassador for Goose It, she continues her mission to elevate lacrosse and push it forward in meaningful ways.
"I never expected lacrosse to take me this far. But looking back, I can’t imagine my life without it," she says.
Shonly’s Journey
Shonly’s introduction to lacrosse was unconventional. Her father, a former player, found an old stick and started using it to throw a ball for their family dog. That small moment led Shonly and her brothers to pick up the sport, starting with boys’ field lacrosse and later transitioning into box lacrosse in British Columbia. She didn’t even realize that women’s field lacrosse existed until she was 12. But once she did, she committed to it completely.
Her talent and drive led her to the NCAA, where she played Division I lacrosse at Stony Brook University before transferring to the University of Oregon and later finishing her collegiate career at the University at Albany. In 2023, she played a key role in Albany’s America East championship victory and NCAA tournament run.
But Shonly’s impact extends beyond the college level. She has represented Team Canada in multiple international competitions, including the 2019 U19 World Championships, Super Sixes events, and the 2024 Women’s Box Lacrosse World Championships. These experiences helped shape her understanding of the game, deepening her appreciation for its history and cultural significance.
"Lacrosse isn’t just about competition—it’s about the people, the relationships, and the culture that make it so special," says Shonley.
Breaking Barriers with the Albany Firewolves
Perhaps one of the most groundbreaking aspects of Shonly’s career isn’t just what she’s done on the field, but what she’s accomplished off it. In 2023, she made history by becoming the first female college scout for the Albany Firewolves, a team in the National Lacrosse League (NLL).
Scouting in professional lacrosse is still a male-dominated field, but Shonly is paving the way for women to break into these roles in the future. Her position with the Firewolves isn’t just symbolic—it’s critical. As a college scout, she is responsible for identifying and evaluating top talent, ensuring that the Firewolves remain competitive at the highest levels of the sport.
"Being the first woman to step into this role is an honor, but I don’t want to be the last. I want to see more women involved in all aspects of the game — on the field, on the sidelines, and in the front office" she says.
Her ability to analyze talent comes from years of experience, both as a player and a coach. She understands the nuances of the game, and her knowledge of both the men’s and women’s formats gives her a unique perspective. The Firewolves saw this potential in her, and she’s already proving that she belongs in this space.
The significance of Shonly’s role cannot be understated. Her hiring represents a shift in the culture of lacrosse — a sign that the sport is becoming more inclusive and recognizing that knowledge and talent are not limited by gender.
Making History and Impact
Shonly’s journey isn’t just about personal success; it’s about setting a precedent for the next generation. As a player, coach, and scout, she’s invested in making the game more accessible and ensuring that young women have a place in high-level lacrosse.
One of her proudest moments came at the 2024 Women’s Box Lacrosse World Championships, where she played alongside some of the best in the game. Competing in a joint men’s and women’s championship emphasized the sport’s growing inclusivity and the increasing recognition of women’s box lacrosse.
As she puts it, "Playing at that level, alongside players I’ve looked up to for years, was surreal. It reinforced why I do what I do."
Partnership with Goose It
For Shonly, teaming up with Goose It is more than just a partnership — it’s a collaboration rooted in a shared passion for lacrosse. She perfectly aligns with the company’s mission to honor the sport’s origins while continuing to push it into the future.
"Goose It isn’t just another apparel brand. It’s made by people who truly understand lacrosse. Their commitment to the sport and its history is what makes this partnership so exciting," she says.
Goose It and Shonly are working together to ensure that future generations of players have access to high-quality gear and meaningful opportunities to grow in the sport.
Looking Ahead
Shonly isn’t slowing down anytime soon. She has her sights set on playing professionally, competing in future international tournaments, and making a run for the Olympics in Sixes lacrosse. Beyond playing, she remains dedicated to coaching and mentoring young athletes, helping shape the future of the sport she loves.
"If I can help even one player realize their potential and dream bigger, then I know I’ve done something right," she says.
She also hopes to expand her work in scouting, paving the way for more women to enter roles in professional lacrosse. Her goal isn’t just to succeed in her position with the Firewolves—it’s to ensure that opportunities like this exist for others in the future.
Her Impact
Shonly Wallace’s impact on lacrosse extends far beyond her personal achievements. Through her playing career, coaching, scouting, and partnership with Goose It, she’s committed to growing the game and creating lasting opportunities for the next generation.
Her story is a reminder that the future of lacrosse isn’t just about who scores the most goals—it’s about who is shaping the game, pushing it forward, and making room for those who come next.
Follow Shonly’s journey and support her through Goose It—because the future of lacrosse is being built today, and she’s leading the way.