Congratulations to Abbi England (Edge U19) on her recent commitment to attend Bryant University!  Abbi joined the Edge program this past fall and had an immediate impact on the team.  England is an exceptional athlete who has a very high level of lacrosse IQ and the ability to play both ends of the field.  "At the NCAA level speed counts, and Abbi will certainly bring that to Bryant’s midfield.  She has the ability to create odd man situations by utilizing her speed, and putting pressure on the defence.   Abbi uses her size, speed and aggressiveness very effectively in getting  to goal making her a threat to score" -Barb Boyes.  We would like to wish Abbi the best of luck at Bryant and have no doubt that she will have great success in her career with the Bulldogs!

We had a chance to catch up with Abbi

Where did you first begin playing lacrosse? Where are you currently enrolled/playing?

I first began playing lacrosse with the Orillia Lady Kings in 2010 and continue to do so.  Currently I am playing for Edge U19, Team Ontario, and Everest U19.

Why did you choose Bryant??

I Choose Bryant University because it is a friendly small D 1 university with only 3500 students.  The coach, Jill Batcheller, has had great success in the past and I believe she will only help the strong lacrosse program at Bryant.  Also Bryant is ranked 11th in the Northeast for academics.  So I feel I will get a great education.

What are you looking forward to most at Bryant?

I'm excited to be the first Canadian to play for the Bryant Women's lacrosse team.  Mainly I am looking forward to playing at a higher level with skilled athletes.

Future ambitions and goals beyond NCAA lax?

My future goals are to win a conference title, be a starter, be a leading goal scorer and to top it off I hope to be an "All American", Canadian girl!

When did you join Edge? Can you tell us about your experience in the program?

I joined Edge in the fall of 2014.  Edge has helped me become a better player.  The coaches have helped guide me to my future lacrosse goals while still emphasizing the need to continue to develop my skills.

Any future advice for Edge members?

My advice to any lacrosse player is you really need to put yourself out there.  Being asked to try out for Team Canada was a great honour but is was also very intimidating being one of the youngest athletes.  A speaker once said that the more you put yourself out there even if it means failing, really is a success.  From taking chances it will only make you a stronger person/player.  Although I did not make it to the next round for Team Canada try outs, I was able to see the next level of play I had to attain and I came out a better player just by playing with better players.   Also listen too and take the advice from your coaches and remember anytime with the stick in your hand is better than none.

Favorite memory with Edge?

My favourite memory would have to be the many laughs with my friends in the car, on the many road trips to the tournaments we played in.  

Who did you look up to growing up?

I would say that I look up to my older sister Emma!  She is hardworking, brilliant and has a great sense of humour.  

Any shoutouts, special thanks?

I would like to thank my parents , especially my mom for all her time, help and encouragement.  She gave it to me straight, even when I was not performing to my potential!  I couldn't be where I am today with out the many coaches I have had this far.  I would like to give a special shout out to Barb Boyes and John Pritchard for their help and guidance through out this whole process.