Spencer Ford Takes Helm as Lacrosse Director at The St. James
Championship-winning coach Spencer Ford has been appointed as the new Director of Lacrosse at The St. James. He aims to drive success in the Academy's Boys Grassroots and Club programs, utilizing his extensive experience in professional lacrosse to shape aspiring athletes.
Bringing Extensive Experience to The St. James
Ford joins The St. James after a successful tenure as the General Manager of the Carolina Chaos in the Premier Lacrosse League (PLL). His leadership in Major League Lacrosse (MLL) has been marked by significant achievements, including guiding the Chesapeake Bayhawks to three championships during his six seasons as General Manager. Additionally, Ford’s coaching and administrative roles with the Philadelphia Barrage and Atlanta Blaze further showcase his commitment to building strong and competitive teams.
A Proven Player with a Passion for Development
Before stepping into management roles, Ford's playing career spanned eight seasons in MLL. As an attackman, he showcased his talent with teams in various cities, including Los Angeles, Long Island, Rochester, and Washington (now known as Chesapeake). His accolades include being named a three-time MLL All-Star and leading the league in assists on multiple occasions, highlighting his extraordinary skills on the field.
Vision for Lacrosse at The St. James
"Spencer Ford's impact on the game is undeniable," expresses Elyse Graziano, Chief Sports Officer at The St. James. "His extensive background as a player, coach, and executive positions him perfectly to develop the next generation of lacrosse talent. Under his guidance, we aim to provide elite training and competition, ultimately guiding athletes toward collegiate and professional levels of play."
Comprehensive Lacrosse Program Highlights
At The St. James, Ford will implement a thorough lacrosse program that emphasizes player development at all levels. Key features include:
- Expert coaching tailored for all positions, offering both team coaching and individualized instruction.
- A comprehensive strength, conditioning, and agility program designed to enhance athletic performance.
- Intensive camps and specialized training programs available throughout the year.
- Access to advanced facilities, including an indoor turf field, locker rooms, and spectator areas.
- Recovery services featuring amenities such as cryotherapy and nutrition support to optimize athletic performance.
Creating Pathways for Athletes
Ford’s leadership aims to establish a clear progression from youth lacrosse through collegiate and professional opportunities. Through specialized training and mentorship, players can achieve success that extends beyond the field.
"I am truly honored to join The St. James and contribute to building a top-tier lacrosse program," said Ford. "My passion for lacrosse drives me to cultivate young athletes who aspire to reach new heights. Together, we will create an environment where excellence thrives both on and off the field."
Collaborative Leadership Team
Joining Ford in leadership roles are other notable figures, such as Stephy Samaras, the newly appointed Director of Girls Academy Lacrosse. The collaborative effort also includes established coaches across various sports disciplines, ensuring a well-rounded and competitive atmosphere within the Academy.
Upcoming Opportunities and Academic Year
Applications for the academic year ahead are now open, offering various avenues for athletes to engage with The St. James. Highlighted activities include:
- An Open House and Evaluation Day to be held soon.
- Evaluative processes for interested athletes seeking to join.
- Opportunities for prospective students to experience shadow days.
For further details, visit the official website and learn more about enrollment and the lacrosse program.
About The St. James
The St. James provides elite athletes with year-round training, professional coaching, and competitive experiences across multiple sports. Access to state-of-the-art facilities enhances the training environment, focused on skill enhancement and competitive readiness, preparing athletes for future opportunities in collegiate and professional sports.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Spencer Ford?
Spencer Ford is a former professional lacrosse player and championship-winning general manager now serving as the Director of Lacrosse at The St. James.
What programs will Ford oversee at The St. James?
Ford will manage The St. James Academy, Boys Grassroots and Club programs focused on player development.
What experience does Spencer Ford bring?
Ford has nearly two decades of experience in professional lacrosse, with notable achievements in both playing and management roles.
How does The St. James support athletes?
The St. James offers comprehensive training programs, strength and conditioning, and specialized camps to help athletes excel.
How can prospective students apply?
Applications are currently open for the upcoming academic year, with details available on The St. James website.
