Leadership
At Pacific Northwest Native Lacrosse, our work is deeply informed and shaped by the wisdom, experience, and cultural knowledge of our Board of Directors.
JD ELquist
Sugpiaq/Alutiiq
Executive Director
JD Elquist is an Alaskan Native with over 20 years of experience as both a lacrosse player and coach. Drawn to the sport through its Indigenous origins, JD’s passion for lacrosse has grown into a lifelong commitment to honoring its traditions and sharing its power to inspire and connect. As the founder and Executive Director of Pacific Northwest Native Lacrosse, JD has dedicated his efforts to increasing Native youth participation in lacrosse, celebrating the game’s cultural roots, and empowering a new generation of players through the Creator’s Game.
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On the field, JD serves as the General Manager and player for the Tacoma Triton, a Senior B Men’s Box Lacrosse team. Off the field, JD is the Head Coach of the Puyallup Vikings Lacrosse team and has previously served as the Head Coach at the University of Puget Sound and JV Head Coach at Bellarmine Prep. He also coaches for South Sound Lacrosse, guiding young athletes in both technique and sportsmanship. Through his work, JD is not just an advocate for lacrosse but a catalyst for cultural reconnection, using the sport as a tool to strengthen community and honor its Native roots.
AARon WHITE
Qe’tu’luk
Snuneymuxw First Nation
I grew up on Vancouver Island, Canada, in a family where lacrosse is a significant part of our lives and community. My grandfather, Reginald White, played alongside all of his brothers (Doug,Dick, Don, Willie and Joe). My father, Ronald White, played and coached in Nanaimo, along with many of his cousins and community members from Snuneymuxw. All of these fine gentlemen led me to begin playing at 12 years old and I played for our local clubs in Nanaimo as well as various Junior and Senior clubs around BC for both box and field lacrosse. Although I began playing for a club at 12, I spent a lot of time at the Lacrosse box on my reservation as a child playing with my brother John White and many cousins/friends who we shot around and played pick up games with, “the box” was a staple in our childhood and community. I hold these memories very close to my heart.
I have great pride and love for the medicine game, as it holds special significance for our indigenous people. Now, I have the privilege of watching and coaching my son, Warren White, as he continues the legacy as a 4th generation player in our family. I love supporting young indigenous youth on and off the floor in various ways, it is an understatement to say I am honored to be part of PNW Native Lacrosse as the group paves the way to further connection to the game
Bawaajigekwe Boulley
Bad River Band of Lake Superior Ojibwe
Vice President
Bawaajigekwe Boulley is the Vice President of the Pacific Northwest Native Lacrosse Board. She is dedicated to promoting the growth and preservation of lacrosse within Indigenous communities, drawing on her deep connection to her cultural roots and her extensive experience in education and community leadership.
Carly Blemmel
Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma
Carly Blemmel is an enrolled member of Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. Carly has demonstrated exceptional leadership through the creation and implementation of numerous impactful programs. Her passion for leveraging culture as a tool for prevention underscores her approach to addressing health disparities and promoting wellness.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Carly remains deeply invested in the well-being of communities, dedicating her personal time to organizing and participating in cultural programs and practices. Carly earned her Master’s degree from East Central University in Ada, Oklahoma, and is currently pursuing her doctorate in behavioral health at Arizona State University.
Carly is a volunteer coach for youth lacrosse in her community and has been a part of her tribal stickball (traditional lacrosse style game) team Tvshka Homma Ohoyo, since its foundation.
Chris Castleberry
Snoqualmie Tribe of Indians
Chris Castleberry, a member of the Snoqualmie Tribe, has a deep connection to both lacrosse and his Indigenous heritage. With a background as a state champion goaltender, collegiate lacrosse standout, and Marine Corps veteran, Chris has dedicated his life to service, both on and off the field. His work as an education coordinator with the Snoqualmie Tribe focuses on helping young members and their families succeed academically, mirroring his approach to coaching lacrosse.
Chris's journey from player to coach, especially his emphasis on leadership, respect, and cultural connection, aligns perfectly with our mission to use lacrosse as a tool for holistic development and community empowerment.
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Coach Castleberry served as head coach Liberty High School and Seattle University.
Rick Roy
Nadzitsaga Lacrosse/ Burns Lacrosse
40+ years involved with lacrosse. New Hampshire transplant to the PNW. Co-founder Nadzitsaga Lacrosse Program, Head Coach Burns Lacrosse. Member of Native American Advisory Council-USA Lacrosse
