Lawrence Steps Down as Maritime Men’s Lacrosse Coach after 13 Years of Dedicated Service

BRONX, NY – The Maritime College athletic department will bid farewell to men's lacrosse coach Daniel Lawrence after 13 seasons with the team. Lawrence has accepted an assistant coaching role at Monmouth University and he will leave behind a history of success on the field, in the classroom, and in the community. "We would like to thank coach Lawrence for his many years of dedication and service to the men's lacrosse program and the athletic department, " said Director of Athletics Kristofer Schnatz. "His leadership has been vital in the development of our student-athletes and his focus on individual growth, community service, and program tradition will leave a lasting influence on the program." Lawrence took over the program as the head coach in 2010 after four years as an assistant coach. With Lawrence at the helm, the men's lacrosse team has made three postseason appearances and seen 21 student-athletes selected to All-Conference teams. "First, I'd like to thank all of the fantastic student-athletes that I had the honor of coaching, their families for sending their sons to our program, and their support throughout the years," said Lawrence. "Additionally, nothing would have been possible without the incredible support of alumni, staff, and community members." The Privateers had one their most successful seasons last spring as Lawrence helped lead the team to a 10-5 mark and the second overall seed in the Skyline Championships. The team earned five All-Conference honors, including Matt DeMeo (Sayville, N.Y./Sayville) who was named Rookie of the Year. Lawrence was also named Coach of the Year following the season. In 2016, the Privateers clinched the Maritime Cup with victories over Maine and Mass. Maritime. Outside of the on-field success, Lawrence also leaves behind a legacy of outstanding community service efforts. Over the years, he has helped coordinate countless community service programs with the men's lacrosse program, including the team's backpack campaign this fall where the team donated 690 backpacks to Homes for the Brave. "I think community service projects are very important because it's how I feel we can make a positive impact on the world around us," said Lawrence. "I really hope that all my student-athletes have realized how it's possible for them to create a positive impact on the people around them by doing something as small as collecting sneakers." After serving five years as an assistant coach, Justin Manjares will take over as interim head coach for the spring season. "I couldn't be more appreciative for everything Coach Lawrence has taught me and we're going to miss him this season," said Manjares. "I'm excited to continue the work he's done over the past nine seasons and hopefully help take this team to the next level this spring." The men's lacrosse team will team play their first game without Lawrence in 13 seasons on Feb. 23 at home against SUNY Geneseo.