Coach's Corner: Richard Carrington

Developing Leaders on and off the Lacrosse Field at Haverford College

Haverford College’s lacrosse program isn’t just about wins and losses—it’s about shaping leaders. Under the guidance of Head Coach Richard Carrington, the team has embraced a player-driven culture that values leadership, accountability, and innovation. With coaching experience across all three NCAA divisions, Carrington has built a philosophy that aligns perfectly with Haverford’s academic rigor and student-led campus environment.

A Journey Through Coaching

Carrington’s path to coaching was anything but conventional. Raised in Charlottesville, Virginia, he was introduced to lacrosse at a young age and went on to play collegiately at Mars Hill College. Initially, he aspired to a career in sports media, even dreaming of hosting ESPN’s SportsCenter. But after catching the coaching bug, he never looked back.

Over the past two decades, Carrington has coached at all three NCAA levels and even spent time as a high school head coach. His diverse experiences have helped shape a coaching philosophy centered on empowering players to take ownership of their development—both as athletes and as people.

A Collaborative, Player-Led Culture

Haverford College offers a unique academic experience, where students write and uphold their own Honor Code, promoting autonomy and responsibility. Carrington has embraced that same spirit in his lacrosse program. “At Haverford, the students steer the boat,” he explained. “That’s reflected in how we run our team. We don’t make decisions without their input, from uniforms to team strategies.”

Rather than dictating every move, Carrington fosters player ownership in decision-making. His staff listens before they speak, allowing players to take an active role in shaping the team’s identity. “I can’t develop leaders if I don’t give them the opportunity to lead,” he said. “I listen more than I talk, and that’s made me a better coach.”

Recruiting the Right Players

Carrington’s recruiting process is centered on finding players who fit Haverford’s culture of curiosity, collaboration, and leadership. His approach goes beyond skill and athleticism—he wants players who are willing to ask questions, challenge themselves, and take initiative.

“I ask recruits how they like to be coached, how they handle conflict, and whether they’re willing to step up when things need to get done,” he said. “If they’re looking to sit back and let others lead, they’re probably not the right fit for us.”

In addition to traditional showcases and club evaluations, Carrington prioritizes finding talent beyond the usual recruiting circuits. He understands that club lacrosse comes with a financial barrier, so he actively seeks players who may not have had the same exposure but possess the right mindset and work ethic.

The “Lacrosse Lab” Approach

Carrington describes Haverford’s lacrosse practices as a “lab”—a place for innovation, experimentation, and growth. “Some days, my players look at me sideways, wondering what I’m having them do,” he laughed. “But we’re always trying new things, pushing boundaries, and finding ways to improve.”

This culture of exploration helps players develop critical thinking skills on the field. “Lacrosse is a game of problem-solving,” he explained. “I don’t just want athletes who can execute plays—I want players who can think and adjust in real-time.”

Setting Measurable, Team-Driven Goals

Rather than setting top-down goals, Carrington ensures his players take ownership of their team’s ambitions. The coaching staff facilitates discussions, but it’s the players who define what success looks like each season. “It’s not about blanket statements like ‘we want to win more games,’” he said. “We identify specific actions and measurable steps to get there.”

A key part of this leadership model is Haverford’s player-led committees, which focus on:

• Branding & Social Media – Managing team messaging, content, and external communication.
• Growth Mindset & Mentorship – Organizing speakers, alumni connections, and academic support.
• Civic Action & Community Engagement – Leading service initiatives and campus involvement.

By integrating leadership into the program’s structure, Carrington ensures his players graduate as well-rounded individuals, not just athletes.

Advice for Aspiring College Athletes

For high school players hoping to play at the next level, Carrington’s advice is simple:

1. Be a great teammate – Celebrate others’ success, support teammates, and demonstrate leadership through your actions.
2. Show effort in the small moments – Pick up trash, stay engaged, and take pride in your role—no matter how big or small.
3. Prioritize consistency over flashiness – Coaches value reliability over highlight-reel moments. The best players make simple plays consistently.
4. Do your research – Choose a college that fits your values, academically and athletically. “The recruiting process is a two-way interview,” Carrington emphasized. “It’s about finding the right mutual fit.”

For those considering a career in coaching, he advises seeking mentorship, prioritizing constant learning, and being willing to put in the work to earn opportunities.

Looking Ahead

As Carrington continues to build Haverford Lacrosse, his focus remains the same: developing leaders, fostering collaboration, and embracing innovation. The team’s unique culture, shaped by its players, is setting the foundation for long-term success—both on the field and beyond.

To learn more about Haverford Lacrosse, visit their website, follow them on social media, or check out @CarringtonsDojo on Instagram and X for insights into skill development and coaching philosophy.

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