Member Spotlight: Callie Watson
From WLD to Team Brazil Head Coach
Longtime WLD member Callie Watson has stepped into an exciting new role as Head Coach of Brazil’s Sixes National Team, and she is just getting started.
Making the Jump to International Lacrosse
Under 30 and already leading a national program, Callie represents a new generation of leadership in the international game. One of the best parts is that this opportunity was deeply rooted in Callie’s involvement with WLD. The head coach role came directly from a WLD posting, and after seeing it shared through the network, she felt called to apply. WLD did not just open the door; it continues to shape the journey.
A day-one member of both the WILD (Women in Lacrosse Development), and International Coaches monthly calls at WLD, Callie regularly connects with coaches and leaders from around the world.
Together, these spaces provide ongoing mentorship, collaboration, and connection that she consistently leans on while leading Brazil’s Sixes program. Those consistent touchpoints have become a steady foundation as she navigates the demands of international coaching. The relationships built through WLD are not occasional check-ins; they are ongoing conversations, trusted sounding boards, and a global community she can call on at any time.
Brazil’s Program Debut
Brazil made its program debut at the Pan-American Lacrosse Association Sixes Cup, held December 2025 in Puerto Rico, and the impact was immediate. The new squad turned heads with a strong performance in its first-ever international Sixes competition, highlighted by a thrilling overtime battle against Argentina.
For Callie, the defining moment came at the very start.
“The most exciting part so far was the first whistle of that first game. It suddenly all felt real. Seeing the families, the fans, the passion everyone brought. And then going to overtime against Argentina? That was electric! You could feel the team starting to click. It felt like they were beginning to get it.”
Balancing Leadership at Every Level
In addition to her international role, Callie coaches at the high school level, bringing the same preparation and energy to every field she steps on. She credits the female coaches she grew up playing for as her greatest inspiration - leaders who modeled the kind of coach she strives to be: empowering, prepared, and passionate.
Being a young female head coach comes with both positives and challenges. There is relatability, fresh perspective, and momentum, but also the reality of stepping into leadership spaces where age can invite scrutiny. Callie meets that with preparation, humility, and strong collaboration. She is quick to highlight her incredible support from Katie Sergeant, as well as the steady encouragement of her sister.
Eyes On What’s Next
The next major milestone will be the 2026 Pan-American Sixes Lacrosse Championship, set for September 29–October 4 in Oshawa, Canada. With summer training camps ahead, preparation is already underway.
And if the energy of that first whistle in Puerto Rico was any indication, Brazil’s Sixes story is only just beginning.
