Christiansen Steps Down as Men's Lacrosse Head Coach

William Penn Athletics Director Grant Farris has announced that Luke Christiansen has resigned as Head Men's Lacrosse Coach.

Christiansen, who is leaving to become the head coach at his alma mater Southern Virginia University, was the only head coach in William Penn history, leading the program to a 78-32 record over the past seven campaigns.

"The alma mater is literally the only job that could pry me away from this team," Christiansen said.  "I am eternally grateful to William Penn for giving me a chance and letting me be me. I am excited to see the program continue to grow in this next chapter, and support it from afar. Thank you to all our players and parents who put their faith in us over the years."

Under Christiansen's leadership, the Statesmen claimed two Heart of America Athletic Conference regular season titles and three Heart Championship crowns, while reaching the NAIA National Championship or Invitational on three occasions. 

The winningest coach in Heart history, he guided 22 All-Americans, 43 all-conference players, seven Conference Offensive or Defensive Players of the Year, one Conference Newcomer of the Year, and two Conference Freshmen of the Year. 

"We are incredibly grateful to Coach Christiansen for the impact he has had on William Penn University and our men's lacrosse program," Farris said.  "Starting a program from the ground up is no easy task, but through his vision, dedication, and relentless work ethic, he built our program into one of the premier programs in the NAIA, and a consistent national contender. While we are certainly disappointed to see him leave, we are thankful for the strong foundation and culture he has established. His contributions have positioned our program for continued success, and we wish him and his family nothing but the very best in this next chapter."

A national search for a new men's lacrosse coach will be immediately.