Two major hires in women’s college lacrosse happened last week, with Villanova naming Jill Batcheller as its next women’s lax head coach and Syracuse appointing Kayla Treanor to take over its program.
Jill Batcheller spent the last three seasons as the head women’s lacrosse coach at Drexel, leading the Dragons to a 24-15 record, including a 13-3 mark and NCAA Tournament appearance in 2021. Prior to her stint at Drexel, she was the head coach for Bryant from 2013 to 2018, transforming the Bulldogs into a power in the NEC, with three conference crowns and a 77-33 overall record.
“I am beyond excited to be named the head women’s lacrosse coach at Villanova University,” JILL BATCHELLER SAID IN A STATEMENT. “Growing up two miles from campus, Villanova has always felt like home. I am so proud to have the opportunity to represent a university not only known for its competitive greatness, but also for its faith. I am looking forward to building off the program’s foundation to create an amazing student-athlete experience with a passion for championship success.”
The hire ends the search for Villanova, which has been looking for its eighth head coach in program history since Julie Young resigned from the position earlier this month after 10 years in charge.
Syracuse has been on the hunt for a women’s lacrosse head coach ever since its coaching musical chairs began in early June. After John Desko retired from his role as the men’s lacrosse head coach, the school moved Gary Gait over from the women’s side to the men’s, creating a new opening at the school. Kayla Treanor has filled that void.
Treanor is one of the most accomplished players in Syracuse lacrosse history: a four-year starter from 2013 to 2016, four-time First Team All-American, three-time Tewaaraton Award finalist, and ended her college career as Syracuse women’s lacrosse’s all-time leading scorer.
After wrapping up her college playing career, Treanor hopped right into coaching, first finding a spot on the staff at Harvard. After one season there, she moved to Boston College, eventually elevating to associate head coach. She was part of the coaching staff that led the Eagles to the program’s first national championship in May.
The Jill Batcheller and Kayla Treanor hires were some of the biggest news in lacrosse this week, but now for some other lacrosse news for the week of June 22-28, 2021:
Last Week in Lacrosse
The Supreme Court unanimously sided against the NCAA and supported an increase in how college athletes can be compensated, a massive step in completely changing the college sports system in the United States.
As part of the Supreme Court’s ruling, it made note of the “important traditions that have become part of the fabric of America” and included the women’s and men’s lacrosse championships on Memorial Day Weekend in the list.
The PLL terminated the contracts of Chaos attackman Austin Staats and Chrome attackman Matt Gaudet after an investigation into the off-the-field altercation between the two players earlier this month.
Jeff Teat, the No. 1 pick in the 2021 PLL College Draft, put up nine point on seven goals and two assists in his second game as a professional, helping lead the Atlas over Cannons, 18-17.
The Ontario Junior Lacrosse League (OJLL) announced its rebrand, introducing a new logo, colors, and more.
The OJLL also held its 2021 draft, with the Whitby Warriors selecting Jack Oldman with the No. 1 overall pick.
The IBLA began its season, with teams across the many regions facing off to celebrate the start of the 2021 campaign.
Get Caught Up on LAS Content
Miss out on what we did last week? Here’s a recap of some of our top content from the last seven days.
Four PLL Stats That Tell the Truth
Greg Winston dives deep into the numbers to deliver four PLL stats that tell the truth about the 2021 season so far. You might be surprised by what you learn…
Panther City Mock Expansion Draft
Ryan Conwell tries his hand at previewing the NLL’s Panther City expansion draft, set to take place this Tuesday. Take a look at who he thinks will make up the league’s newest roster.
It’s Never Too Late to Start Playing Lacrosse
No matter when the game comes to you, it’s never to late to pick up a stick. That’s the message Josh Russell, who didn’t begin his lacrosse journey until age 31, wants you to understand.
Nick Marrocco Provides a Look Inside the Cannons
Cannons goalie Nick Marrocco joined the Going Offsides podcast to talk about his team, transitioning to the PLL, why Georgetown is good again, and much more as he shows his willingness to answer tough questions truthfully.
Owls Lacrosse: Growing the Game
Chicago-based OWLS Lacrosse is doing big things for the game in the third-biggest city in America. Check out the impact OWLS is having on its community.
