Waltham lacrosse athletes to showcase international flair at upcoming Heritage Cup 

The red, blue and orange colors of the Armenian flag worn by Nick Babigian this weekend represent a lot: his family, his heritage and, of course, himself. 

Babigian is one of five Waltham Public Schools lacrosse players who will represent their families’ lineage at The Heritage Cup, a lacrosse tournament fielding more than 120 teams representing more than 40 countries at Rider University in New Jersey from May 22 to May 25. That time coincides between the regular season and MIAA Tournament, resulting in just a missed practice or two.

“It just feels like I’m playing with a bunch of people that are my family but aren’t,” Babigian said. “Everyone just feels like a family playing with team and country pride.” 

Babigian’s paternal grandparents and maternal great-grandparents were born in Armenia. His parents were born in the United States.

Babigian attended Armenian preschool where he learned how to speak, read and write in Armenian. He can still speak and understand the language, which he speaks with his father and some extended family members. He hasn’t been to Armenia but would like to visit in the near future

“It’s just my family and how we grew up,” Babigian. “We have Armenian traditions on holidays, food, all that stuff.” 

Garo Gebeyan will join Babigian on the Armenian U-19. Teammate and classmate Ben Villafane will play for the Puerto Rican U-19. Youth players Eric Villafane, Ben’s younger brother, and Xander Rivera will represent Puerto Rico at the U-13 level. 

While most participants are U.S. citizens, the tournament, which began in 2013, develops lacrosse internationally by raising awareness of the sport, fundraising and collecting equipment. 

“You don’t really see a lot of Puerto Rican lacrosse players, it’s really special to see my heritage on the field,” Ben Villafane said. “I want lacrosse to grow as a sport.” 

He has been to Puerto Rico twice. Villafane’s paternal grandparents were born and raised in Puerto Rico. Playing with others with similar roots builds bonds quickly.  

Eddie Villafane, the Waltham High School head coach, introduced Babigian to the tournament. Babigian’s cousin, who coaches at Dexter Southfield and club lacrosse, helped create the team and find a spot for Babigian.

Babigian’s father, Vasken, and cousins who live 45 minutes away from the tournament plan to come. They’ll be decked out in Armenian gear.

“At the tournament, everyone goes crazy,” Babigian said. “It’s a big tournament … it’s very fun.”