Former Sachem lacrosse coach and physical education teacher Rick Mercurio (center in the attached photo) has been tapped by the Federation of International Lacrosse to join its Development Committee.
Legendary Rutgers coach Tom Hayes, who Mercurio played for in college, is the FIL’s Development Director and hand selected him for the group.
“The FIL development initiatives are made stronger by the addition of Joanna [Liganelli] and Rick to our committee,” Hayes said in a statement. “Their extensive experience in working with young players at every level gives us a solid base for future clinics for our members.”
Mercurio, who amassed more than 315 victories at Sachem and Sachem East, has traveled extensively teaching lacrosse around the world. As an ambassador of the FIL, he’s made trips to Thailand, Belgium, Russia and China so far.
He will be deeply involved with coordination of international events, according to the FIL.
-Words by Chris R. Vaccaro