Crawdads Lacrosse: Breaking Ground and Bringing Home the Gold
On May 17, 2025, history was made: the Nolensville High School boys’ varsity lacrosse team captured the very first‑ever Division I Class AA TSSAA state championship, securing a decisive 10–4 victory over Franklin High School. This win marked a landmark moment for lacrosse in Tennessee, as it was the first championship since the sport became fully sanctioned in the state’s scholastic athletics.
The Secret Sauce: Crawdads Lacrosse
What propelled Nolensville to this incredible achievement? It’s rooted in Crawdads Lacrosse, the youth club based in Nolensville that’s become a driving force in developing local talent.
Founded in 2016 by Ravenwood High School head coach Eric Clapp as a middle school club team at Sunset, Crawdads has grown into a thriving, respected youth program serving both boys and girls in Kindergarten through 8th grade.
Several members of the 2025 state championship team came up through Crawdads—some even claimed state club titles with the program in 2021 and 2022.
Coaches Who Make a Difference
It’s not just about participation—it’s about excellence in coaching and skill development. As board member Phillip Posey puts it, “It’s the coaching and development that really sets Crawdads apart.”
- Coach Drew Hawken leads the Varsity group (grades 5–8). He brings experience from Ravenwood and from playing at Nazareth University in Rochester, NY.
- Coach Will Jenner oversees Kindergarten through 4th grade. A USA Lacrosse Tennessee Hall of Famer and true pioneer in the state, he’s been foundational to the growth of youth lacrosse for over 15 years.
Looking Ahead: Fall & Spring Seasons
If you’re curious about trying lacrosse, here’s what’s coming up:
- Fall training season: Last week of September through early November (with a break for fall break)
- Spring club season: February through May 2026
Plus, Crawdads is hosting a free “Learn to Play” clinic on Sunday, August 24 at Nolensville High School—no commitment required and perfect for newcomers. Learn more at www.CrawdadLacrosse.org, follow @crawdadlax on Instagram, or email crawdadlax@gmail.com.
Source
This post is based on insights from the Nolensville Town Life article, “Crawdads Lacrosse Team Finds Winning Formula” — read the full original article here: Nolensville Town Life.