Women’s Lacrosse Coach Katie Russo Travels to Japan For Beyond Sports Lacrosse Tour

BALTIMORE, MD - From June 11 to June 20, Women's Lacrosse Head Coach Katie Russo traveled to Japan to participate in the Beyond Sports Lacrosse Tour.

Founded in 2010, Beyond Sports has quickly established itself as a leader in international sports travel. The organization is dedicated to connecting the world through sport by offering athletes the opportunity to compete internationally while immersing themselves in diverse cultures. Created by former collegiate athletes, Beyond Sports emphasizes the transformative power of athletic travel and its role in fostering personal growth and development. The program is deeply committed to facilitating meaningful experiences that extend beyond the playing field.

Coach Russo began her involvement with Beyond Sports in the summer of 2023, when her close friend and former colleague, Molly Devilbiss, invited her to coach on a high school lacrosse tour in Spain. Russo and Devilbiss had previously coached together at Frostburg State University, where Russo served as a graduate assistant. Both were selected to join the organization's invite-only coaching staff. This year, Russo's role expanded significantly as she was invited to serve as a Tour Coordinator for the college-level lacrosse tour in Japan.

In her capacity as Tour Coordinator, Russo was responsible for managing the overall tour experience, acting as both a leader and liaison for the participating teams. Her duties included overseeing logistics, supporting athletes, and facilitating cultural engagement throughout the duration of the trip.

Reflecting on her experience, Russo noted that the opportunity offered her "a new perspective both personally and professionally in my coaching career, especially in regard to gratitude." She emphasized the importance of programs like Beyond Sports in offering cross-cultural experiences that bridge the gap between athletic pursuits and real-world understanding. "I was able to give back to the sport in a new role, create a great experience for everyone on the tour, meet new people, build lasting connections, and make unforgettable memories," she said.

When asked to summarize her experience, Russo shared: "I am truly grateful for the opportunity to travel abroad with Beyond Sports. I was able to share the sport I love, coach with others, meet new people, and make unforgettable memories along the way."