Jefferson’s Ryan Gillard is statewide lacrosse assistant coach of year
Photo courtesy: John/Zoe Bader
Jefferson High School’s Ryan Gillard is this year’s Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) Boys Lacrosse Assistant Coach of the Year. He was nominated for the state honor after being named the Section 6 Assistant Coach of the Year.
Coach Gillard is the team’s defensive coordinator and helped the team achieve an average of only 4.19 goals allowed per game, the second lowest in team history. The team also averaged 0.5 goals per game by defensive players, led by freshman Lukas Boyum with a total of 4 goals.
“I’m proud of our defenses, ability to clear the ball, and be an offensive threat in transition. This was a big part of my own game when I still played,” said Gillard.
“Ryan develops players at an elite level. They play the best team-style defense in the state, so much so that our brand has become defense. Teams are often held to their lowest goals of the season anytime they battle the Jaguars,” said head coach Scott Cater.
The team’s final record was 14-2, ending the season against Edina in the section final. It was also the second time in team history the team won 14 games in a row.
“This group of boys and the rest of the coaching staff exemplify what it means to be a family better than any team I’ve ever been part of as a player or coach. They made this season truly special,” said Gillard.