Born: 1984 (Boston, Massachusetts)
Biography:
Kristen Kjellman is an American women’s lacrosse player who has made significant contributions to the sport throughout her career. Born on November 18, 1984, in Boston, Massachusetts, Kjellman was raised in Westwood, MA. From a young age, she displayed a passion and talent for athletics, participating in various sports including soccer, basketball, and lacrosse.
Kjellman attended Westwood High School from 1999 to 2003, where she excelled as a student-athlete. In all four years of her high school career, she earned varsity letters in soccer, basketball, and lacrosse, showcasing her versatility and dedication to multiple sports.
In 2003, Kjellman’s exceptional lacrosse abilities caught the attention of Kelly Amonte Hiller, the head coach of the Northwestern Wildcats women’s lacrosse team. Recognizing Kjellman’s potential, Hiller recruited her to join the team, setting the stage for an extraordinary collegiate career.
Kjellman made her debut for the Northwestern Wildcats in 2004, starting all 18 games for the team. Her impact was immediate, as she was named Inside Lacrosse National Rookie of the Year and Co-National Rookie of the Year. She led the Wildcats in goals, scoring an impressive 53 goals in her freshman season. Kjellman’s exceptional performance helped Northwestern win three consecutive national championships from 2005 to 2007.
Kjellman’s achievements continued to grow throughout her college career. She became the first lacrosse player, male or female, to win the prestigious Tewaaraton Trophy in consecutive seasons in 2006 and 2007. Her leadership played a pivotal role in Northwestern’s dominance in women’s lacrosse, contributing to the team’s remarkable 77-5 record during her tenure.
Aside from her team success, Kjellman garnered individual recognition as well. She received the Honda Sports Award, honoring her as the nation’s best female lacrosse player, for three consecutive years from 2005 to 2007. Kjellman’s performances on the field were widely acknowledged, earning her covers on esteemed publications such as Sports Illustrated, SI on Campus, and Inside Lacrosse.
After graduating from Northwestern in 2007, Kjellman embarked on a career in Chicago as a Sales Representative for Nike Lacrosse. Her passion for lacrosse didn’t end with her college days, as she continued to make significant contributions to the sport. In 2008, she was named the National Rookie of the Year for Nike Sales, showcasing her skills and expertise beyond the playing field.
Kjellman’s dedication to the sport led her to be selected as a member of the US National Team for four consecutive years from 2010. She made her first World Cup appearance in the 2009 World Championships in Prague, where her team reached the finals and emerged victorious against Australia in a thrilling championship game. Kjellman’s presence was felt both offensively and defensively, as she contributed with a goal, an assist, and several key draw controls. Her outstanding performance earned her a well-deserved place on the All-World team as a midfielder.
Throughout her career, Kjellman has amassed numerous accolades and accomplishments. She was named the Inside Lacrosse National Rookie of the Year in 2007, won the Tewaaraton Trophy in 2006 and 2007, and was recognized as a four-time All-America choice. Kjellman’s dominance in the midfield earned her three consecutive American Lacrosse Conference (ALC) Player of the Year awards and three-time National Midfielder of the Year honors.
Setting records along the way, Kjellman holds the all-time Northwestern record for goals (250) and points (349). She also boasts an NCAA record with 39 career goals in NCAA Championship play. Her exceptional skills and determination have solidified her as one of the greatest lacrosse players of her time.
In addition to her individual accomplishments, Kjellman was a vital part of the U.S. National Elite team in 2007, contributing to their success. Her commitment to excellence led her team to win the gold medal in the 2009 World Cup.
Kristen Kjellman’s contributions to women’s lacrosse have left an indelible mark on the sport’s history. Her passion, talent, and dedication have not only propelled her career to great heights but have also inspired generations of aspiring female athletes. As a trailblazer in women’s lacrosse, Kjellman continues to impact the sport and the next generation of players.
Awards:
– Inside Lacrosse National Rookie of the Year (2007)
– Tewaaraton Trophy (2006, 2007)
– Four-year All-America choice
– Three-time American Lacrosse Conference (ALC) Player of the Year
– Three-time National Midfielder of the Year
– All-time Northwestern record for goals and points
– NCAA record with 39 career goals in NCAA Championship play
– Three-time Honda Sports Award winner for lacrosse
– Member of the U.S. National Elite team (2007)
– Gold medalist in the 2009 World Cup
– All-World team midfielder (2009)