Kyle Parker is Pioneering the way for Kiwi Lacrosse Lads

Kyle Parker: Leading a New Generation of New Zealand Lacrosse Athletes

Kyle Parker, from Hamilton, New Zealand, is one of the most exciting lacrosse players to emerge from the country. A talented multisport athlete, Kyle’s true passion was found on the lacrosse field. Despite not always being the biggest on the field, his speed, passion, and determination have carried him through every challenge. Kyle’s journey has taken him through the ranks of the NCAA, and he is now a leader on the Wilmington University Wildcats, with his sights set on winning a conference championship in 2025. His story of adversity and hard work is paving the way for future Kiwi lacrosse players, showing just how far sport can take you—even in a niche game like lacrosse.

Kyle’s Career to Date

A Point-Scoring Machine Wherever He Plays

Kyle has showcased his talent and adaptability across three different programs in his college career:

• Freshman Year: Northland College, WI
  • Led his team with 24 goals and 18 assists, finishing with a total of 42 points.
• Sophomore Year: Colorado State University - Pueblo
  • Ranked 2nd in his team for points with 26 goals and 15 assists, totaling 41 points.
• Junior Year: Wilmington University
  • Spring season has not yet started at the time of writing.

Kyle is a proven leader both on and off the field, holding an impressive 3.85 GPA and leading his team in both points and academics.

Why Was Kyle’s Journey Different?

Kyle’s journey stands out as an example of perseverance and adaptability. In just three years, he’s lived in three different states and attended three colleges. Moving from New Zealand to the U.S. was a significant challenge in itself, but bouncing between colleges added another layer of adversity.

• Year 1: Recruited from the U18 Australian State Tournament, Kyle joined Northland College, a small D3 program in Wisconsin. Despite the cold and unfamiliar surroundings, Kyle gave 110%, leading his team in scoring as a freshman—an impressive feat at any level.
• Year 2: After his freshman year, Kyle joined Colorado State University - Pueblo, a step up to a D2 program with better facilities. However, after the school unexpectedly dropped its men’s lacrosse program, Kyle closed the season with a strong 7-point performance against Westminster.
• Year 3: Now at Wilmington University, Kyle has joined an NCAA D2 program in Delaware. Wilmington has seen steady progress over the past five years, competing in the CACC championship final for the last four years. Kyle is determined to help the Wildcats break the drought and bring home the championship in 2025.

Why Wilmington University?

Wilmington University (WU) is an outstanding choice for student-athletes, offering a strong blend of academic excellence, athletic prowess, and support. With a growing reputation in NCAA Division II sports, WU provides a dynamic environment for students to thrive both on and off the field.

Key Highlights Include:

• Top NCAA D2 Program: Wilmington has been a consistent contender in the CACC, making the championship final for the past four years, proving its competitiveness and commitment to excellence.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: WU boasts cutting-edge facilities that enable student-athletes to train, compete, and develop to their full potential.
• Academic Success: Known for its strong academic programs and high graduation rates, Wilmington ensures student-athletes have the tools they need to succeed in the classroom as well as on the field.
• Athletic Support: With dedicated coaches, sports staff, and academic advisors, Wilmington University offers comprehensive support to help athletes balance academics and athletics.

For Kyle, Wilmington University represents the next step in his collegiate journey, offering the right environment to compete at the highest level while continuing to develop as both a player and a leader.

Platform Sports’ Role in Kyle’s Journey

Platform Sports has been a crucial part of Kyle’s journey, guiding him through the transfer process from D3 to D2 programs. After his second school cut the program, Platform helped him find his next home. Our support doesn’t end once athletes are in college, and we’re proud to be part of Kyle’s journey.

Quote from Kyle:
"The Platform Family made me feel at home from day one. They made the transfer process easy and seamless, placing me in a school and team that fit me perfectly. I’m now playing Division II lacrosse and living my dream every day. Make the right choice and go with Platform!"

What’s Next for Kyle Parker?

Kyle is currently studying at university and has goals of competing in the NCAA national tournament for his university. He also has his eyes on competing for the New Zealand Lacrosse team in the next World Cup.

We Don’t Just Find Colleges. We Find Your Perfect Fit.

The Right Team. The Right Programme. The Right Future.

Kyle’s success shows that with the right support, preparation, and determination, you can achieve greatness. If you’re ready to follow in his footsteps and compete in U.S. college athletics, Platform Sports is here to help you make it happen.

Start your journey today—book a free consultation with Platform Sports.