For the first time in the program’s history, there is a new head lacrosse coach at St. X. The man chosen for the job is Kevin Doherty.

Lacrosse is one of the fastest growing sports around the United States. This is no different in the state of Kentucky. Lacrosse first began in 2001, with St. X being the very first team. Scott Howe, who is seen as the founder of lacrosse in the Kentucky, has been the only coach in the Tiger lacrosse program’s history. In his 23 years with the team, he has lead the team to 16 state titles while appearing in the state championship in 22 of the 23 seasons. After leading the Tigers to another state championship in the 2023 season, the school decided to go in a different direction.

Kevin Doherty is a former division 1 lacrosse player at Wagner College where he was the team captain in his final season in 2019. Before Wagner, he played at Essex Community College, and most recently, he was the defensive coordinator for the Virginia Military Institute (VMI).

“If I had to pull from anything in my playing or coaching career, it’s irreplaceable people that I’ve come across because of lacrosse,” Doherty said.

He believes that from his past experiences he is able to build a program that is able to sustain success. Doherty became familiar with the program while recruiting former players like Luc Boudreau ’23 and Jackson Campisano ’23. He knew St. X was a school to keep a close eye on.

“I got to meet with very talented people that I would be working alongside,” Doherty said. “After that, it was clear that this was the place to be.”

The annual spring break trip to Virginia Beach was a staple of the lacrosse team, and it is seen as a bonding moment for the team. Coach Doherty wants to continue with the tradition while making some different changes.

“Spring break is a great window to challenge ourselves with competitive games outside the state while taking advantage of the pause in the academic calendar to unwind and recharge,” Doherty said.

Doherty’s goal is for the Tiger lacrosse program to reach its full potential and to grow the brand of the team nationally.

“Social media will play a significant role in telling our story,” Doherty added. “Continuing to play a nationally competitive schedule will be essential for us to grow our brand. Alumni engagement and involvement in youth lacrosse will also play vital roles in brand awareness.”