L’ville coach Schulte steps down, Megaffin takes over
Kris Schulte has always been a student of the game of girls lacrosse, and based on the success at Lawrenceville, Schulte is a pretty darn good teacher, too.
After leading the Big Red to a pair of Mercer County Tournament titles, several Mid-Atlantic Prep League titles, Prep A titles and a 71-13 record the last four season, Schulte has decided to step away from the sidelines.
“It was a tough decision,’’ said Schulte. “There were three factors that made it so hard. I really liked getting to know the players and seeing them grow, it was so wonderful to be a part of the team and finally. I love the game and a part of my identity is tied up with being a coach. While teaching has always been my No. 1 priority I always loved coaching this sport and have done it for 35 years.’’
Schulte started the Big Red program in 1987, and then after several years away she returned in 2014 to guide the fortunes of the Big Red.
Always with a very cerebral approach to the game, it was practice Schulte enjoyed the most.
“I am a student of the game and I love to break down the game and the team’s strengths and weaknesses,’’ said Schulte. “Designing drills to break down a concept into its component parts. Games were just when the players put it all together. The work before is what I did enjoy the most.’’
There’s no doubt that Schulte will probably sneak up the hill in front of Lavino Fieldhouse to Fisher Field to catch a game or two, but she has left the program in good hands.
Assistant coach Grace Megaffin has been named as Schulte’s successor. Emilie Kosoff, the longtime and very capable assistant, will continue with the program.
“Kris has been an incredible role model for myself, the girls on the team and all women in the Lawrenceville School community,’’ said Megaffin. “She holds herself to the same standards that she expects from those that surround her, and as a result I find myself working to be the best I can be when we work together.’’
Megaffin, who played at Hopewell Valley, has paid her dues and is ready for the challenge.
“I’m very excited to take the role as head coach of the Lawrenceville girls lacrosse program,’’ said Megaffin. “I have had the privilege of playing for Pam Edwards (Hopewell Valley) and coaching with Wendy Morris (Pennington) and Kris Schulte. I feel as prepared as I can be, and I can’t wait to see what next season has in store.’’
While Megaffin steps in, she knows the decision was not an easy one for Schule to step away from.
“Indeed the toughest part will be when March rolls around and I’m not on the field,’’ said Schulte. “Yet, I’m so confident in Grace (Megaffin) and Emilie (Kosoff) that I know it is time for them to lead. The girls adore them both and they are excellent coaches. I know the team is in the best hands possible.’’
Schulte’s hands, knowledge of the game and her love of teaching the game proved right for the Big Red the last five years, and she leaves a very successful legacy.