������Ƶ

In a groundbreaking expansion of its athletic programs, ������Ƶ is thrilled to announce the addition of men’s and women’s lacrosse teams, with competition set to begin in February 2026. This marks a significant milestone for Koala Athletics as the college continues to grow its legacy of excellence and opportunity in sports.

“This is an incredible moment for Koala Athletics,” said Glen Crawford, Director of Athletics. “Adding men’s and women’s lacrosse allows us to elevate our athletics program while bringing more energy and enthusiasm to our campus. Lacrosse is a fast-growing sport with a passionate following, and we’re proud to join this movement right here at ������Ƶ.”

������Ƶ has a strong tradition of athletic achievement, with numerous teams earning regional and national recognition in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). By introducing lacrosse, the College aims to enrich the student experience, promote athletic diversity, and strengthen its sense of community pride.

“������Ƶ is in a transformative era,” said Dr. John Dozier, President of ������Ƶ. “Expanding our athletics program reflects our commitment to growth and opportunity. Students, faculty, and alumni are eager for new ways to connect and celebrate together, and lacrosse will infuse fresh spirit and momentum into our campus life. We can’t wait to see the impact of these teams on our community.”

To lead the lacrosse programs, ������Ƶ has hired two seasoned coaches, both with exceptional records of success:

• Tom Kinney has been named the first-ever head coach of the men’s lacrosse team. Kinney joins ������Ƶ from Raleigh, NC, where he served as the assistant men’s lacrosse coach at NCAA Division III William Peace University during the 2023-24 season, specializing in offensive and special teams. Prior to that, Kinney worked at Methodist University in Fayetteville, NC, where he excelled in recruiting and coaching goalies from 2021 to 2023.

   

• Mallory Bahr will lead the Lady Koalas as the head coach of the women’s lacrosse program. Bahr comes to ������Ƶ after two seasons as head coach at Lake Erie College (OH) from 2023 to 2024. She also launched the women’s lacrosse program at Spalding University (KY) in 2020, successfully establishing the foundation for a new NCAA Division III program. Her coaching career includes impressive stints at Johnson & Wales University (CO) and Tennessee Wesleyan University (TN), where she guided teams to strong records and developed several All-American athletes.

   

������Ƶ is excited to welcome these two dynamic teams and their accomplished leaders to its growing athletics program. With their expertise, the college is poised to make an immediate impact in the lacrosse community and beyond.

For more information about ������Ƶ Athletics, please contact Troy Baranik, Sports Information Director, at tbaranik@columbiasc.edu.