Lawrence signs another PSG deal

She’s also helping out in her Brampton hometown with second charity event Ashley Lawrence, 23, says she’s “adjusted well” to living and playing in Paris.

Just 23, Canadian soccer international Ashley Lawrence is looking after her future while doing her best to help the welfare of others.

Lawrence signed a new multiyear deal with Paris Saint-Germain on Monday. She’s currently in her second season with the prestigious French club, which sits second in the standings at 11-0-2 — two points behind defending champion Lyon.

Her existing contract was to expire in June.

“I’m very excited,” Lawrence said. “I think for me and most players, as you’re reaching the end of your contract, you start to think of what your next decision will be, your next move.

“For me, it was great because I’m happy here in Paris. It took some time to adjust with the language, with the culture, but I can confidently say now that I’ve adjusted well. This is the right place for me to continue my development as a player.”

Lawrence has worked hard on and off the field.

She asked her teammates to speak to her only in French, for example, so she could improve her language skills.

During the Christmas break, Lawrence has organized her second annual YesSheCanada Food and Toy Drive in her hometown of Brampton. The Dec. 22 event at the Brampton Soccer Centre gives girls aged 6 to 16 a chance to learn some soccer skills from Lawrence and other national team players.

“Last year it went so well, the reaction from the kids and the families was amazing,” Lawrence said. “I hope to continue to do events like that. I’m not often in Canada, only in the winter and summer ... But for sure there’s always time to give back.”

Camp registration was free with Lawrence asking for participants to donate a toy or canned goods that will go to local families in need. While the event is already booked this year, Lawrence says people are welcome to stop by for a closing question-and-answer session if they bring a donation.

On the field, Lawrence has played a variety of roles with PSG, including fullback and winger roles on both sides of the field. Lawrence has played right back for the most part with Canada, but has also seen time at left back.

Lawrence has already won 68 caps and scored five goals for Canada.

The league title is still in PSG’s reach, providing it can overtake Lyon, whose roster includes defender Kadeisha Buchanan of Toronto. Come March, Lawrence’s team will take on Chelsea in the quarter-finals of the Women’s Champions League.

PSG is also alive in the French Cup.

“We’re in a really good place,” Lawrence said.