Keith Thorkelson – U8 Coach
Keith is a 1992 graduate of Fairfield Prep in Connecticut, where he was a standout defenseman and earned selection to the Connecticut State Senior All-Star Team in his final year. He went on to play Division I lacrosse at Butler University from 1992 to 1996, competing in the highly competitive Great Midwestern Lacrosse League alongside programs such as Notre Dame, Denver, Michigan State, Ohio State, and the Air Force Academy.
During Keith’s tenure, Butler achieved national recognition and was ranked in the top 20 at various points. The program continued to rise, finishing 10th in the nation shortly after his graduation. Unfortunately, Butler discontinued its men’s lacrosse program in 2008 due to Title IX scholarship balancing requirements.
After college, Keith returned to Fairfield Prep to coach JV lacrosse for a season in 1996–1997. Now, he’s back on the sidelines coaching our U8 team, passing on his knowledge and love of the game. You’ll often see his 8-year-old son Jake out on the field and passing and catching with his Dad prior to game and practice action.
John Romano – U10 Coach
John Romano grew up playing lacrosse in Central New York, one of the sport’s most competitive regions. He was one of three brothers who all went on to play college lacrosse. John was on the team at Fayetteville Manlius High School, which ranked in the top 2 in the state, and went on to play NCAA Division I lacrosse at St. Bonaventure University.
With over 40 years of experience, John has remained involved in the game as both a player and coach. He previously coached JV at Horizon High School and U10 players for the Arcadia Youth Program. He currently serves as the U10 Head Coach for the Cave Creek Lacrosse Club and has coached several club travel teams in Arizona that competed nationally.
For John, coaching is about giving back to the sport that shaped him. He focuses on fundamentals, teamwork, and developing a love for the game—whether working with future high school players or beginners.
Steven Larson – U12 Coach
Steven Larson played collegiate lacrosse at UMBC from 2014 to 2017, following a highly successful high school career at Chaparral High School (2010–2013). During his senior year, Steven earned several prestigious honors, including US Lacrosse All American, Adrenaline All American, Arizona Offensive Player of the Year, and Lake Tahoe U19 Tournament MVP. He was also a two-time All-State selection and recognized on the Warrior Top 40 list in 2012, reflecting his standout performance on the field.
Known not only as a faceoff specialist but also as a true offensive weapon, Steven was unique in that he was not just a "FOGO" (Face Off, Get Off) player—he stayed on the field and consistently contributed on the offensive end. His combination of grit, athleticism, and lacrosse IQ made him one of the best players ever to come out of the state of Arizona.
In his senior year, he recorded 161 ground balls and totaled 64 points, ranking sixth in the state in scoring. His ability to control possession, push transition, and create scoring opportunities made him an all-around force on the field.
Having reached some of the highest levels of the sport, Steven can coach and teach every aspect of the game—from faceoffs and fundamentals to offensive strategy and team play. His passion for the game and commitment to player development continue to shape his impact as a coach.
Eric Hatch – U14 Coach
Eric Hatch grew up in Central New York, where he played for Fayetteville Manlius High School where his team was ranked No. 1 in New York State his senior year. A nationally recruited goalie, he went on to play collegiately at Virginia Wesleyan. With over 40 years of experience as both a player and coach, Eric brings a deep understanding of the game’s roots and fundamentals. He’s coached every position and style of play, developing athletes at all levels across boys’ lacrosse in Arizona for more than 12 years.
Eric has also coached youth lacrosse in Syracuse, NY, where several of his players went on to compete at the college and professional levels, including some who played for Team USA.
While he’s capable of coaching every aspect of the game, Eric’s true passion lies in working with goalies. He specializes in shaping confident, technically sound netminders through a focus on fundamentals, mindset, and leadership—helping them become the backbone of their teams.
Youth Coordinator – Gavin Smith
Gavin serves as the Youth Lacrosse Coordinator, helping lead a strong, sustainable program where kids can thrive both on and off the field. His journey into lacrosse began when his son, Geoffrey, picked up a stick and instantly connected with the game. Inspired by that spark, Gavin jumped into the sport and quickly became a passionate advocate for youth development through lacrosse.
With a background in team sports and a natural knack for leadership, Gavin expertly manages the essential operational aspects that keep the program running seamlessly. He serves as a friendly bridge between coaches and parents, ensuring clear communication and fostering a supportive environment for all involved.
You’ll often find Gavin on the sidelines coaching on game day, teaching fundamentals at practice, carrying goals, chasing down missed shots—or answering questions from parents and players. He’s fully immersed in every aspect of the program. His hands-on presence and energy reflect a simple goal: to create a program where every player feels supported, included, and excited to grow.
Alan Locke – Player Development
Alan grew up in Central New York, a lacrosse hotbed, and has over 40 years of experience as a player and coach. He played under Hall of Fame coach Tom Hall at Fayetteville-Manlius High School, where his team was ranked #1 in the nation his senior year. Alan earned All-League honors, finished top five in goals, and was an All-State soccer goalkeeper holding several records that still stand today. He received Division I, II, & III recruitment interest in both sports from schools including Ohio State, Albany, Le Moyne, Towson, and Nazareth.
He attended Fredonia State, then the nation’s top-ranked Division III soccer program, playing varsity soccer and lacrosse. He led the team in goals and assists every year, set the school’s all-time scoring record, ranked top five nationally in points as a senior, earned NCLL All-American honors, served as team captain junior and senior years, and was team MVP all four years. Alan helped lead the team to the NCLL Final Four, beating Penn State before falling to Delaware.
Alan currently leads player development for Cave Creek Youth Lacrosse and is a former Head Varsity Lacrosse Coach at Horizon High School. He has coached numerous players who went on to play college lacrosse and has worked with many travel club teams at all levels.
Known for promoting a fast, instinct-driven style emphasizing speed and transition, his coaching prioritizes lacrosse IQ and fundamentals. He strongly supports multi-sport athletes, discouraging early specialization to foster better skill development, reduce burnout, and grow a love for sports.
He enjoys sharing the game with his son Ethan, who calls him “Coach Dad.” You’ll often find them tossing the ball before practice.