This fall, as college commitments continue to roll in for Loomis Chaffee athletes, another Pelican is taking his talents to the Ivy League. Julien Watts ’27, a face-off specialist on the LC Boys Varsity Lacrosse team, has committed to Yale University to continue his athletic and academic career at the Division I Level. 

“From a young age, my dad — who is from the Six Nations Reservation in Canada — introduced me to our deep lacrosse tradition. Growing up in Upstate New York, playing the game has always brought me joy,” Watts said. 

At Loomis, Watts has been a key contributor in the face-off circle, helping the Pelicans secure the Founders League Championship last season. When asked about why he chose Yale, Watts highlighted the team’s culture, coaching staff, and discipline as major factors in his decision. 

He stated, “First of all, I love the coaching staff at Yale. Andy Shay, the head coach, is an amazing guy off the field, but as soon as you get on the field, he flips the switch to being a coach.” He continued, “I got the chance to look at their team lift when I visited. When I saw it, it’s almost like an army, how they operate, very strict, but that’s what I like.” 

Looking ahead to his next chapter as a Bulldog, Julien notes that he will miss his friends at Loomis when he is playing at Yale. Nonetheless, he mentions that he is most looking forward to Yale’s campus, stating that “this is the place I want to be.” With his strong work ethic and passion for the game, Watts is excited to make his mark in New Haven.