Search
Spirit Squad
Get your FREE Virginia Wesleyan decal.
PEIC
Learn about campus greening initiative.
Jul 7, 2006: Brown, O'Donnell Take Over As Assistant Men's Lacrosse Coaches At Virginia Wesleyan
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. -- Two new assistant coaches will help direct the fortunes of the 2007 Virginia Wesleyan College men's lacrosse team, but returning Marlin players will recognize one of the newcomers immediately.
Scott O'Donnell, a 2006 Virginia Wesleyan graduate and former Marlin player, is one of the new mentors, along with Springfield College graduate Taylor Brown. The assistant coaching stints are the first for both individuals.
O'Donnell, a native of Ijamsville, Maryland, competed for the Marlins for three seasons, but was forced to sit out his senior year with a career-ending knee injury. He played in 35 games, started in 22 and recorded 47 career ground balls. O'Donnell received his bachelor's degree in May, graduating as a double major in criminal justice and political science.
"Scott spent his senior year as a student assistant with the program," said head coach J.P. Stewart. "He has a tremendous work ethic and will continue to impact Virginia Wesleyan and our lacrosse program in a positive manner. I'm excited to see his continued transition from the playing field to the sidelines."
Brown, a May graduate as a recreation, parks and fitness major, with a minor in health, was a four-time All-American, the first in Springfield history. A four-time first-team Pilgrim League honoree, he helped guide the Pride to a 49-19 record, four consecutive league titles and four straight appearances in the National Collegiate Athletic Association's Division III national tournament.
A native of Portsmouth, Rhode Island., Brown finished his career as one of the most successful attackmen in Springfield history. He is currently ranked second in career goals scored (160), third in points (273) and fourth in assists (113).
"Taylor is an exceptional hire," said Stewart. "He has an outstanding playing career and is the son of Al Brown, formerly the head coach at Alfred College and Bates College. I am excited to begin working with him and know that he will also have a great impact on our program."
Virginia Wesleyan finished 9-5 in 2006, its best season since 1999. The Marlins achieved those results with a relatively young team and return a seasoned group for the 2007 schedule that once again opens with perennial power Salisbury University. Virginia Wesleyan will host the 2006 national runners-up on Saturday, February 17 at 1 p.m.
In addition to a rugged slate against Old Dominion Athletic Conference opponents, the Marlins will also face three new opponents in 2007. Series will begin with Maryland's Hood College, Missouri's Fontbonne University and with Hampton Roads rival Christopher Newport University.
###