In the 50 years since A-West was built, it has never had a lacrosse team. The coach of the team this year is Reese Lachner. He has been coaching lacrosse for five years and has been playing from second grade all the way through college where he attended Gwynedd Mercy University just outside of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Lachner is originally from New Jersey.

“I played division 3 lacrosse in Pennsylvania and have played lacrosse since I was seven years old,” explains Lachner, his voice filled with passion for the sport he has been playing for most of his life. 

After moving to Colorado, he started teaching math at A-West. Once he heard about the job offer of being the lacrosse coach he couldn’t pass up the chance. He is very excited he got the job and loves being able to build a program from scratch, making it the way he wants it. Starting from the ground up with all of the philosophies, plays, and everything else involved.

Currently, there is only a boys team but Lachner would love for it to grow, and hopefully, in a few years, there will be a girl’s program once the sport has gained popularity and recognition at A-West. 

Even though Lachner is confident there are many rival schools that the team has to go against. He believes their biggest challenge will be Ralston Valley but right now their pinnacle is Cherry Creek.

“Their [Cherry Creek’s coach] is actually an old favorite player of mine that played for Virginia and I loved watching him in college, so it’s cool to see he’s taken over that program.” Lachner is determined to have his players grow in their ability and lacrosse IQ, while still relating to players, cracking jokes, and having a good time.  “I’m ready to go up against anybody.” Lachner’s confidence in the team is very high.