Autumn Perrault McCabe, Jaden Loeppky, and Kaitlyn Schroeder are leading Team Manitoba’s women’s box lacrosse squad at the 2025 Canada Summer Games. These standout athletes opened up to us about what drives them, the unforgettable moments of the Games, and how their team has grown together. Get to know the power, passion, and personality behind Manitoba’s top three teammates.

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As team captain, what role do you see yourself playing on and off the field?

I try to be someone that motivates others, leading by example, and just being a calm and welcoming presence that anyone can come to - and just being positive as well. 

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What’s been the most rewarding part of your Canada Games experience?

Our success on the floor. We’ve done really well in this tournament and we’ve worked really hard to be here. I’m really proud of everyone on the team, and it’s been great to make connections with my teammates. 

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What’s your vision for the team’s performance the rest of the Games, and what message do you want to send to them as their captain?

It’s just seeing us succeed by working hard, I think that’s something that sets us apart. We’re really hard working and a passionate team. I also see us connecting on and off the floor, continuing to build friendships. And a message that I want to send to them is just to enjoy the experience. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. 

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Since you’re a transition player, and you play both ends of the floor, what’s the difference between the two positions?

On defense, we communicate more, we try to clog the middle and make sure they don’t get to the middle, and on offense, we try and score and get to the middle - so it’s the opposite. 

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What does putting on the Manitoba jersey represent for you?

It means a lot, because i t’s for the first time, so it means a lot to me - and to play against the best players in the country.

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How do you manage your nerves and stay focused on playing your best at an event like this?

Just taking it one step at a time, and making sure I’m prepared for every moment, like getting ready for each game, stretching, making sure I’m eating the right food, taking naps, and being there for my teammates to encourage them will all get us ready to play our best. 

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Autumn Perrault McCabe, #72, Winnipeg MB

What was your experience like at the Canada West U17 development program and how did it impact your play at Canada Games?

It’s really given me the confidence to come here and give it all I got representing Manitoba, and one of the big things I learned from that experience is you have to earn every moment you get to play, I had to fight for every time I was on the field. 

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As a team leader, how do you balance your personal performance with being a team player?

I just hold my head up high and remember it’s not all on me - and I have girls around me supporting me at all times. The coaches all here support me and if I ever need anything, they will always have advice for me and it’s really helped my mental health through this experience. 

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