Black History Month is a time for us all to further educate ourselves on the hardships Black people have fought through. We need to humble ourselves as a society and learn to accept responsibility for our ancestors’ actions. This month is important for us to continue to take steps towards equality.

It is also a time celebrate and highlight the lives of Black individuals who inspire us.

For myself, Kevin Alexander was someone that I idolized. Kevin played lacrosse on the west coast of Canada where I grew up. He is one of the greatest players to ever play the game. He also paved the way for Black lacrosse players to play professionally.

Kevin was a western player but took his talents east to play for the Buffalo Bandits. When I was drafted by the Bandits, it all came full circle for me. He showed that Black players could be influential in the sport of lacrosse, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without him.

Chazz Woodson was one of the most creative and, in my eyes, game changing players to ever play lacrosse. I remember watching his highlight tape on repeat in disbelief. Being a Black lacrosse player at the highest level and pulling off the moves that he did inspired me to work harder and be creative in my own game.

Both of these two players paved the way for myself and Black players across the world. For that, I thank them.