Courtesy of University of Northwestern
ST. PAUL, Minn. -- The University of Northwestern athletic department announced Wednesday that current assistant coach, Travis Sanders, will take over the reins of the men's lacrosse program following current head coach Jay Mayes' resignation. Mayes will join his wife, Emily, as they pursue career opportunities for her in Arizona.
"First off I would like to thank Coach Mayes for the great leadership he provided for the men's lacrosse program this year, said Director of Athletics Matt Hill. "The future is bright because of the culture and professionalism he brought to the team and athletic department. While we are sad to see him leave, we understand the opportunity that awaits for he and Emily in Arizona."
Mayes' impact has been felt all across campus this year, as he has not only transformed UNW's product on the field, but the culture of the program. He turned around a squad that went 5-7 in 2017 to 9-4 this spring, including a seven-game winning streak to end the year.
Sanders – a 2001 Bethel College graduate – is no stranger to the game, as he currently serves as the Associate Director for the Minnesota Loons Club Program, as well as the head varsity coach of Roseville Area High School. His previous coaching stops include Bethel (Head Club Coach), Stillwater Area (Head Coach) and Minnetonka (Assistant Coach). Sanders has sent 200-plus student-athletes to play collegiate lacrosse.
"Coach Travis Sanders has been a part of the Eagle men's lacrosse team since its inception, providing necessary training, scouting, player development, and tactical programming for the squad," said Hill. "He brings a ton of lacrosse experience with him and we are excited about this new role for Coach Sanders to lead this program into the next phase."
At Stillwater, Sanders helped lead the transition from a club program to MSHSL membership in 2008. He led the Ponies to a Suburban East Conference title in 2010 and compiled an overall record of 53-29. After leaving to take over at his alma mater is 2013, he was named the UMLC Division II Coach of the Year in 2013. He has served in his current role with the Loons since 2012 and oversees the day-to-day operations of the Loons Training Center.
"I would like to thank Dr. Hill for the opportunity to continue to build the men's lacrosse program at UNW and I intend to continue the positive momentum created by Coach Mayes," said Sanders. "I am excited to be leading this program as we continue to learn how to love God and to love others while playing lacrosse."
Sanders resides in St. Paul with his wife, Katie, and son, Henry.
A formal press conference to introduce Sanders will be held next week.