McWilliams Named Director of Lacrosse/Men's Head Lacrosse Coach

Brendan McWilliams will join the Emmanuel College Athletics Department as the new Director of Lacrosse/Men's Head Lacrosse Coach, it was announced today. In this new role, McWilliams will oversee the implementation of lacrosse to the Saints' current program of 15 varsity sports, while serving as the College's inaugural men's coach.

McWilliams brings an impressive amount of experience to the new lacrosse program, including coaching positions at three different colleges and universities. Most recently, he served as head men's lacrosse coach at Kenyon College in Ohio (2003-2007). In 2006, he led the Lords to an NCAA Division III tournament appearance and was named the North Coast Athletic Conference Lacrosse Coach of the Year. In his last two seasons at Kenyon, McWilliams produced 15 all-conference players as well as one All-American. During his tenure, the lacrosse program twice earned a United States Intercollegiate Lacrosse Association (USILA) national ranking.

Prior to Kenyon, McWilliams spent time as the first assistant for the University of Vermont's men's lacrosse program, serving as the offensive coordinator and goalie coach, and as an assistant men's lacrosse coach at Tufts University, where he earned a master's degree in secondary education. A Colorado College graduate, he was a two-time captain of the men's lacrosse team and was selected to play in the prestigious North-South All-Star game during his senior year.

"Brendan fulfills everything we were looking for in our Director of Lacrosse/Head Men's Lacrosse Coaching position," said Director of Athletics and Recreation Pam Roecker. "He brings demonstrated success as a Division III head men's lacrosse coach, competitive collegiate playing experience and an outstanding academic background. Brendan has the focus, drive, intensity and passion we were determined to find as we searched for a leader to establish this new and very exciting program for the Saints. His commitment and enthusiasm for Emmanuel College is already evident and will be a key factor as he builds his program."

"I am extremely excited at the opportunity to continue my coaching career at Emmanuel College," said McWilliams. "It was clear to me throughout the hiring process that Emmanuel College is enthusiastic about adding men's lacrosse. For the student-athlete who is looking for a first-rate college experience in the heart of Boston, as well as the opportunity to play Division III college lacrosse, Emmanuel College is a great option."

Initially, the men's and women's lacrosse programs will compete at the club level for one season prior to varsity play. The women's program, under the direction of Head Coach Amanda Laws, will begin their inaugural varsity season in 2010-2011, with the men beginning the following spring. Both teams will call the newly renovated Roberto Clemente Field home.

Courtesy: Emmanuel Athletic Communications