Core Lacrosse

What's in your core? We understand that you have many options in regards to lacrosse travel teams, lacrosse instruction and camps. Core Lacrosse offers some unique advantages. These can clearly be seen through our story. It starts with Mario Lopez, a past All American at UMass and MLL All Pro Defensemen who is certified as both a school counselor and physical education teacher. He holds a MEd. from the University of Virginia and has been coaching lacrosse at the collegiate and high school level for over 13 years. At his first high school position in Glastonbury, CT Coach Lopez served as Jack Reid's defensive coach and mentor. Jack would follow Mario's footsteps and serve as the defensive leader and captain at the UMass program, leading it to its first ever National Championship game. In his four year career, Jack was a two time player of the year candidate, a 3x All American and, in his senior year, was named the programs only 1st Team All American at defense. He is widely regarded as one of the nation's best defensemen and is continuing his playing career at the MLL and NLL levels, being selected 10th overall in both drafts.

Core Lacrosse is an organization built on a 10 year relationship featuring an emphasis on the right way to play the game. As a staff we are looking to provide young men with the tools needed to improve as players and people. We will emphasize communication, hard work and commitment to the lacrosse fundamentals that serve as the foundation of all great players. Our programs will be a positive experience for athletes at all skill levels.

What sets us apart?

What sets Core Lacrosse apart from other camp experiences is our approach. We feel that every player can be challenged to improve their level of play and reach their potential. New players have infinite potential and highly skilled players are never too good to learn something new. Our best coaches will be involved in every drill; leading the instruction that is being passed down. All drills and sessions will be conducted with an emphasis on playing hard and having the right attitude while learning. Our directors are not only accomplished lacrosse players but also great educators with the unique ability to teach the nuances of lacrosse. Not all great players make great coaches, but both Mario and Jack take great pride in their ability to help players develop their talents.

If there are any questions that we may help you with please feel free to contact us. Every call or email is important to us and as such you will receive a response in a timely fashion.




Bios

Jack Reid - Co-director

Jack is currently pursuing a career in lacrosse as the New England Territory Manager for Cascade. In addition, he is dedicated to promoting the sport of lacrosse through education and coaching youth in the sport he loves. Jack has been lecturing at summer camps for four years and is also coaching at Hall High School in West Hartford.



Mario Lopez - Co-director

Coach Lopez has played lacrosse at the highest level attainable having represented the United States in international competition as a starting defenseman. He has played professional outdoor lacrosse for the Bridgeport Barrage (now the Philadelphia Barrage) of Major League Lacrosse as well as pro indoor lacrosse for the Buffalo Bandits of the National Lacrosse League. In addition, he has a coaching background that includes 3 years as a Div. 1 NCAA assistant at UMass and Trinity College, Asst. at Glastonbury High for 5 years, and running Chief Lacrosse, LLC, teaching 5th-12th graders the game for 5 years. He is also a dually CT state certified educator in both high school counseling and physical education. Coach Lopez holds a Med. from the University of Virginia and currently is the head coach of Hall High School in West Hartford, CT.



John Gormley - Offensive Instructor

Coach Gormley is the head coach at Kingswood-Oxford School and has greatly improved the program with his knowledge of offensive skills, dodges, shooting and team concepts. John is also an elementary physical education teacher and has experience working at a variety of youth lacrosse camps.



Scott Hinchey - Goalie Instructor

We are pleased to add Coach Hinchey to the staff with his knowledge of all aspects of goal tending. Scott is the only two-time Hartwell Award Winner in Glastonbury High School Lacrosse history.