The Scoop
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How did you first get involved in coaching?
I got roped into coaching like most parents do. I was standing on the sideline watching a game barking at the kids and refs, and the coaches thought ‘it sounds like this guy played and might know what he’s talking about.’ So, they came over after the game and asked if I wanted to help out. 13+ years later, even though my kids have all aged out, I’m still coaching and helping to continue the growth of our program and sport.
When did you start playing lacrosse and why was it appealing to you?
I started playing lacrosse in 1978 while in 8th grade at [The Rivers School]. I was still playing baseball at the time. I was the typical kid that they put out in right field… I had the attention span of a gnat and baseball (I call it Zombieball now) just wasn’t for me. During a game, some friends were playing lacrosse on the field behind right field where I was. I turned around to watch them actually having fun - wailing on each other with big smiles on their faces. While I was leaning on the fence watching my lax friends, a fly ball hit me in the back. I didn’t even bother to pick the ball up, rather I hopped the fence, dropped my glove, picked up a lax stick and played the rest of the afternoon with my lax friends. Never played Zombieball again.
How do you think youth lacrosse has evolved over the years?
It’s evolved greatly since I played in high school
and college. It definitely has become a faster game with way more finesse required. I think it’s more fun to play and watch across the board.
Finally, how would you describe your coaching style?
It’s evolved over the years. I’ve made all the coaching mistakes possible, like anyone who’s been at it for 10+ years. Now I’m pretty chill on the sidelines. I focus on teaching the finer points of the game and coaching kids up.
The Scoop / Spring '18 15