Appalachian State Mountaineers Lacrosse Team Overview

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The Appalachian State Mountaineers lacrosse team has been a staple of the university's athletic program since its inception in 2010. As a member of the NCAA Division I, the team competes in the Southern Conference, facing off against top-notch opponents from across the country. In this article, we'll delve into the history, achievements, and current state of the Appalachian State Mountaineers lacrosse team.

Early Years and Growth

The Appalachian State University lacrosse team was established in 2010, with the first game being played in 2011. The team was initially a part of the NCAA Division II, but after a successful run, they made the transition to Division I in 2014. Since then, the Mountaineers have been working tirelessly to build a strong program, recruiting top talent and investing in state-of-the-art facilities.

Key Milestones and Achievements

• In 2013, the Mountaineers won their first conference championship, claiming the Great Atlantic Lacrosse Conference title.
• In 2015, the team made their Division I debut, competing in the Southern Conference.
• In 2017, the Mountaineers earned their first NCAA Division I playoff bid, falling to the University of Denver in the first round.

Coaching Staff and Players

The Appalachian State Mountaineers lacrosse team is led by Head Coach Kevin Kelly, who has been at the helm since 2014. Coach Kelly has a wealth of experience, having coached at various levels, including Division I and professional lacrosse. The team's coaching staff is rounded out by assistants Sean Collins and Pat McCormick.

As for the players, the Mountaineers have a talented roster, featuring a mix of veteran leaders and promising newcomers. Some of the key players to watch include:

• Senior attackman Chris Gray, a two-time All-Southern Conference selection
• Junior midfielder Connor Keenan, a 2020 Southern Conference All-Tournament Team member
• Sophomore goalkeeper Zachary Pratt, who earned Southern Conference Freshman of the Week honors in 2020

Facilities and Resources

The Appalachian State Mountaineers lacrosse team calls Kidd Brewer Stadium home, a state-of-the-art facility that features a seating capacity of over 24,000. The stadium has undergone significant renovations in recent years, including the installation of a new turf field and improved lighting.

In addition to Kidd Brewer Stadium, the team also utilizes the Holmes Convocation Center for practices and training sessions. The Convocation Center features a turf field, locker rooms, and strength and conditioning facilities.

Community Engagement and Outreach

The Appalachian State Mountaineers lacrosse team is committed to giving back to the community. Throughout the year, the team participates in various outreach programs, including:

• Lacrosse clinics for local youth
• Charity games and fundraisers
• Visits to local hospitals and schools

These efforts not only help to promote the sport of lacrosse but also foster a sense of community and social responsibility among the team's players and staff.

Future Outlook and Goals

As the Appalachian State Mountaineers lacrosse team looks to the future, they are focused on building on their past successes and continuing to grow as a program. The team's coaching staff is dedicated to recruiting top talent and developing the skills of their current players.

In terms of specific goals, the Mountaineers are aiming to:

• Win a Southern Conference championship
• Earn a spot in the NCAA Division I playoffs
• Develop a strong, competitive team culture

With their sights set high, the Appalachian State Mountaineers lacrosse team is poised for success in the years to come.

We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the Appalachian State Mountaineers lacrosse team. From their early years to their current successes, the team has come a long way. As they continue to grow and develop, they are sure to be a force to be reckoned with in the world of lacrosse.