An old face brings new ambition to CU Lacrosse

Success has been the demand for CU lacrosse season after season. Its reputation as a respected rival out West in the Men’s Collegiate Lacrosse Association calls for an even more elite individual to lead the charge.

But it’s been four springs with four different head coaches for Colorado’s team. Only this time, in 2012, a familiar face is at the helm coming into opening day.

An ideal leader on the sidelines is experienced and consistently evolves his game, much like CU's most accomplished lacross coach in school history, John Galvin. When he stepped down after the 2009 season, Galvin stayed close to the game by managing the local lacrosse shop, promoting business and popularity of the sport across the state of Colorado.

When opportunity knocked for a return to the team he built from the ground up, Galvin was quick to oblige.

“I guess in the hindsight you’re looking back reflecting on some of the things you’ve done in the past from coaching before, and coming back you have a different perspective, how you want to treat and react to different situations,” Galvin says.

It’s a unique form of leadership that reflects in the office and during practice, especially with employees that are familiar with coach Galvin. Recent graduates Ben Weiz and Marty Taffet both work under Galvin in the store by day; after work it's in the film room, checking equipment and training players as assistant coaches.

Colorado's goal is to return as a formidable opponent in the MCLA, something the team has struggled with under the two head coaches that have come after Galvin's departure.

“He’s first class all the way,” senior captain Marcus Alley comments, “I definitely think he’s the guy to lead us to the promised land, and I think the University feels the same.”