CHENGDU, China – The Ireland Women’s Lacrosse Sixes National Team made history in 2025 by competing in their very first World Games, and at the heart of their offense was none other than Duke University alumna Gabby Rosenzweig. The former Blue Devils standout delivered a stellar all-around performance, tallying a team-high 14 points over the course of the tournament. Her offensive output — composed of eight goals and six assists — not only demonstrated her skill and consistency but also provided a spark in every match Ireland played.
The event, staged in Chengdu, brought together some of the world’s best lacrosse nations in the fast-paced Sixes format. For Ireland, the challenge was steep, especially facing off against teams with deep international pedigrees. However, Rosenzweig’s leadership and production kept Ireland competitive and left a strong impression on the global stage.
Opening Day – A Trial by Fire Against the USA
Ireland’s first matchup in bracket play was a daunting one: a meeting with Team USA, a powerhouse in women’s lacrosse and, ultimately, the eventual gold medal winners of the tournament. Despite Ireland’s best efforts, the Americans showcased their offensive firepower, cruising to a 32-11 victory. Even in defeat, Rosenzweig’s quality shone through as she led her team’s scoring with two goals and three assists. Her five points in the game set the tone for her role as Ireland’s primary offensive catalyst throughout the competition.
Day Two – Battling Czechia
Ireland’s second challenge came in the form of the Czechia National Team. This match was a more evenly matched contest, but Ireland still faced difficulties breaking down Czechia’s defense. The final score stood at 16-10 in favor of Czechia. Once again, Rosenzweig was at the forefront for Ireland, contributing two goals and one assist for three points. Her ability to find the net and create scoring opportunities kept Ireland within striking distance, though the team couldn’t quite close the gap.
Final Bracket Game – Clash with Australia
The last day of bracket play pitted Ireland against another strong opponent, Australia, a team known for its speed and tactical awareness in Sixes play. Ireland fought hard but ultimately fell 18-7. Rosenzweig’s role as a facilitator was evident in this contest, where she registered one assist. Even in a game where goals were hard to come by for Ireland, her playmaking instincts helped create scoring chances that gave her teammates opportunities to challenge Australia’s defense.
Seventh-Place Showdown – Victory Over China
While the bracket stage had been challenging, Ireland’s final opportunity came in the seventh-place match against host nation China. With pride on the line and the chance to close out their World Games debut on a high note, Ireland delivered its most dominant performance of the tournament. They surged to a commanding 19-5 win, leaving no doubt about their capabilities. Rosenzweig once again rose to the occasion, leading all scorers with a four-goal, one-assist showing, totaling five points for the game. Her energy, precision, and attacking creativity were central to Ireland’s commanding victory.
A Tournament to Remember
Although Ireland finished the tournament with a 1-3 record, their first appearance at the World Games will be remembered as an important milestone for the program. Facing off against some of the strongest teams in the world gave the players invaluable experience, and Rosenzweig’s standout performances ensured Ireland’s offense always had a dangerous edge.
For Rosenzweig, this tournament was another chapter in an already impressive lacrosse career. As a Duke alumna, she has long been recognized for her scoring ability and playmaking skills, traits that were on full display in Chengdu. Across four games, her 14 points underscored both her personal consistency and her ability to deliver in high-pressure situations. Whether it was finding the back of the net herself or setting up teammates for scoring chances, she remained the focal point of Ireland’s attack.
The Ireland Women’s Lacrosse Sixes National Team leaves Chengdu with their heads held high, knowing that they have taken the first step toward establishing themselves on the world stage. And with players like Gabby Rosenzweig leading the way, the future looks bright for Irish lacrosse.
