Peruvian Heritage Helps Cassandra Kitchen Connect With Family, Friends

USA Lacrosse is happy to join in the celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from Sept. 15-Oct. 15 and recognizes the contributions and influence of Hispanic Americans to the history and culture of the United States.

Across the country, Americans with Hispanic Heritage are picking up lacrosse sticks and falling in love with this game. For some, the connections made through lacrosse have brought them closer to their heritage, as more and more Hispanic countries adopt the game and participate in international competitions.

From youth players to those in the professional ranks, Hispanic Americans are a crucial part of the lacrosse community — and each person has a unique story to tell. In partnership with Lacrosse the Nations, we will highlight proud Hispanic Americans in the game of lacrosse and their family stories on our social media platforms.

We are grateful for you. We support you. You help make this sport special. Te estamos agradecidos. Te apoyamos. Ayudas a que este deporte sea especial.

Cassandra Kitchen

Heritage: Peruvian
Location: Owings Mills, Md.
Team: Skywalkers 2024 Blue

What does your heritage mean to you?

Heritage to me means who I am. It represents a big portion of me. It's a tremendous gift being able to speak Spanish fluently, allowing me to communicate and create tighter bonds with relatives, friends and others. I am very grateful to be bilingual — Spanish from my mother's side and English from my father's. I live with a unique blend of two different cultures that exist side-by-side practicing both traditions. 

What is your family's immigrant story?

My mother emigrated from Peru to the United States in 1989. She came to the US trying to "escape" the dangers posed by the Shining Path terrorist organization. She wanted to start a new life for a better future. She took the chance to come and create an opportunity for my brothers and I to have a better life. In doing so, we were introduced to lacrosse, which began my journey to love the game.  

How were you introduced to lacrosse?

I was fortunate to have a brother who played for the Peruvian National Lacrosse team in 2018 at the FIL, where he immensely enjoyed his experience. I strive to play high-level collegiate lacrosse and possibly for the U.S. Women's National team. Additionally, I would be honored and proud to play for a Peruvian Women's Lacrosse team or help introduce Peruvian girls to the sport I have grown to love.

What role has lacrosse played in your life?

Lacrosse has opened up so many opportunities and paths that I will always cherish and can't wait to experience. I've met incredibly talented players and developed friendships with the wonderful team I have been playing on for the past five years. I would like to include that I've always wanted to go to less fortunate areas or countries to spread the love of the game that I have been privileged to enjoy.