Heidi Cross grew up in a family where sports were more than an extracurricular—they were a way of life. With parents who both played college athletics, a father who coached Division I baseball, and a brother competing at the same level, she learned early what commitment and discipline looked like. That foundation shaped her path to Stetson, where she now balances the demands of collegiate lacrosse, academics, and leadership.
For Cross, being a female student-athlete is about more than competition. It's about growth. "Being a female student-athlete means fully committing to your sport while also growing as a person, even when things get busy or challenging," she said. That mindset has helped her become a dependable presence on the field and a confident, organized leader off it.
As her journey has unfolded, Cross has become increasingly aware of the impact female athletes can have on one another. Whether it's inspiring young girls watching from the stands, teammates pushing each other to improve, or women stepping into leadership roles, she feels pride in representing women in sports. "Being surrounded by strong, driven women who compete at a high level while supporting each other has made me proud to be part of that environment," she said.
That pride became more personal when she realized her younger cousin, now in high school, looks up to her. Cross hopes her own path through college lacrosse can serve as inspiration, just as sports have helped her build confidence and strength.
Much of Cross's growth can be traced back to the support systems around her. Her mother and two aunts all played college sports, offering early examples of confidence, resilience, and leadership. At Stetson, that foundation expanded through her team's culture. "Our team created a cultural code centered around grit, pride, buy-in, and family," she said. "Those values are something we truly live by."
That environment has challenged her daily while also providing unwavering support. Being part of a program built on trust and accountability has helped her grow not only as an athlete, but as a person.
Her journey hasn't been without adversity. Cross faced one of her biggest challenges after undergoing double leg surgery for exercise-induced compartment syndrome. The recovery process tested her patience and mental toughness as much as her physical strength. "Coming back from injury showed me how strong I could be, not just physically but mentally," she said.
Returning to the field reinforced her belief in the resilience of women in sports—something she's seen reflected in herself, her teammates, and countless other female athletes who push through setbacks and come back stronger.
The lessons Cross has learned extend well beyond lacrosse. To young girls who dream of playing sports or competing at the collegiate level, her advice is simple: play because you love it. She encourages them to believe in themselves, surround themselves with supportive people, and enjoy the journey, knowing the lessons will last far beyond the final whistle.
When asked who inspires her most, Cross points to her mother, who played basketball and softball in college. Her example showed Cross the lifelong impact sports can have and the meaningful relationships that come from being part of a team.
She also hopes more people recognize the dedication female student-athletes bring to their sport. "Women's sports deserve the same respect and recognition," she said, "because the effort, passion, and competitiveness are just as real."
Looking back on her time at Stetson, Cross sums it up in three words: gritty, growth-driven, and rewarding. The journey has challenged her in every way, strengthened her confidence, and given her relationships and lessons that will stay with her long after lacrosse.
