The Lambton Kent District School Board is proud to celebrate the remarkable achievement of Waukiigan Shognosh, a former student of Wallaceburg District Secondary School (WDSS), who was selected in the first round of the National Lacrosse League (NLL) Draft 14th overall to the Buffalo Bandits. At just 18 years old, Waukiigan made history as the first goalie selected in the 2025 draft.
A proud member of Walpole Island First Nation, Waukiigan began his educational journey at Riverview Central School and attended WDSS from Grade 9 through the first semester of his Grade 12 year. He then relocated to Peterborough to billet with the Peterborough Lakers Jr. A, completing his final semester in Peterborough while continuing to pursue his lacrosse aspirations.
Waukiigan speaks highly of his time had at WDSS, crediting several teachers Mr. Odonahue, Ms. Youlton, Mr. Dundee, Mr. White, and Ms. Isaac for positively shaping his experience. He described the transition to Peterborough as "pretty challenging," but necessary to follow his dreams.
Waukiigan's lacrosse career has been nothing short of impressive. After being drafted second overall by the Peterborough Lakers in the 2024 Ontario Junior A Lacrosse League draft, he went on to win the Sanderson Memorial Award as the league's Goaltender of the Year. Prior to that, he played Junior B lacrosse with his hometown Wallaceburg Red Devils, earning the title of Rookie of the Year. He also captured two gold medals with Team Ontario one at the 2023 Canadian U17 Boys' Box Lacrosse Championship, and another at the North American Indigenous Games.
"Being drafted by the Buffalo Bandits is beyond a dream come true and means the world to me," Waukiigan said. "I've wanted this my whole life and all the hard work and dedication has led up to this moment."
Looking ahead, Waukiigan's goals include continuing his lacrosse career in the NLL, while also pursuing post-secondary studies to become either a teacher or a sports medicine doctor.
LKDSB congratulates Waukiigan on this incredible milestone and wishes him continued success both on and off the field. His story is a powerful example of perseverance, passion, and the impact of supportive educators along the way.
