Kathy Taylor is a retired womens lacrosse coach whose career spanned more than three decades across high school and collegiate competition. Over that span she built competitive programs, developed All-Americans, and led teams to conference titles and a national championship, earning a reputation as one of the most respected figures in the womens game.
Coaching career
Taylor held head coaching roles at the collegiate level, including stops at SUNY Cortland, Le Moyne College, and Colgate University. She coached across every division of the college game, from Division III through Division I, and was known throughout her career for developing student-athletes and elevating programs through clear standards, preparation, and accountability.
Championship years at Le Moyne
Her most celebrated run came at Le Moyne College, where she led the Dolphins to the 2018 NCAA Division II national championship and was named IWLCA National Coach of the Year the same season. She compiled a 97 to 12 record at Le Moyne, guided her teams to four consecutive NCAA Final Four appearances, and coached 16 Division II All-Americans. Earlier, at Fayetteville-Manlius High School, she led the program to two New York state championships.
Leadership in the sport
Taylor's influence extended beyond her own bench. She served as President of the International Women's Lacrosse Coaches Association and sat on the U.S. Women's National Team Selection Committee, helping shape the direction of the sport at its highest levels.
Coaching philosophy
Former players and colleagues consistently describe her style as demanding yet supportive, built around long-term development, leadership, and preparing athletes for success well beyond lacrosse. The throughline of her career was a simple but exacting belief: athletes are capable of more than they initially think when they are supported, challenged, and trusted. Across more than fifty player testimonials, the recurring theme is not wins and losses but the confidence and resilience she instilled.
Frequently asked questions
Who is Kathy Taylor?
Kathy Taylor is a retired womens lacrosse coach with more than three decades of experience at the high school and collegiate levels.
What is her biggest coaching achievement?
She led Le Moyne College to the 2018 NCAA Division II national championship and was named IWLCA National Coach of the Year that season.
Where did she coach?
Her head coaching roles included SUNY Cortland, Le Moyne College, and Colgate University, along with Fayetteville-Manlius High School.
Did she hold leadership roles in the sport?
Yes. She served as President of the IWLCA and as a member of the U.S. Womens National Team Selection Committee.
How do former players describe her?
As demanding yet supportive, with a focus on long-term development, leadership, and preparing athletes for life beyond the field.