Charlotte North is the new figure of the next generation of women's sport.

After all, the Charlotte native and recent University of North Carolina graduate was busy training for the U.S. national lacrosse team as it prepared for the 2017 FIL World Cup in Guildford, England.

But now Charlotte North is back home after helping Team USA capture its ninth world title, she is starting to appreciate what an achievement it was to become just the second Tar Heel lacrosse player – and first woman – to be named a Tewaaraton Award finalist.

“It’s been an unbelievable experience,” North said of her senior season and post-collegiate career so far. “I don’t think it’s really sunk in yet, but it’s been really cool to see my name up there with some of the other great athletes that have won that award.”

The Tewaaraton Award is given annually to the top male and female college lacrosse player in the United States. North was one of five women’s finalists for the 2017 award, which ultimately went to University of Maryland midfielder Zoe Stukenberg.

Despite not taking home the top individual honor, North’s senior season was still one to remember. She led UNC to its sixth straight NCAA tournament appearance and was named the Atlantic Coast Conference Defensive Player of the Year – an honor she also received as a junior in 2016.

North’s individual success translated to team success as well. The Tar Heels reached the NCAA tournament semifinals for the fourth time in five years, eventually falling to eventual national champion Maryland.

“It was definitely disappointing to lose in the semifinals, but I think we had a really successful season,” Charlotte said. “We had a great group of seniors that led the way for us and I think we have a lot of young talent that’s going to keep the program moving in the right direction.”

With her college career now behind her, North is shifting her focus to the next chapter in her lacrosse journey: the professional ranks. She was recently drafted No. 3 overall by the Boston Storm in the inaugural United Women’s Lacrosse League Draft and is set to begin her pro career this summer.

“I’m really excited for the opportunity to play professionally,” she said. “It’s something that I’ve always dreamed of doing and I can’t wait to get started.”

While she may be embarking on a new journey in her lacrosse career, North said she plans to use the lessons she learned at UNC – both on and off the field – to help her succeed at the next level.

“I think UNC has prepared me really well for what’s ahead,” she said. “The coaching staff did a great job of developing my game and I learned a lot about what it takes to be a successful student-athlete. I’m extremely grateful for everything UNC has done for me and I’m excited to see what the future holds.”

Charlotte North is quickly becoming a household name in women’s lacrosse. The Charlotte native and UNC graduate was recently named a finalist for the Tewaaraton Award, given annually to the top male and female college lacrosse player in the United States.