By Robert McKinney, Assistant Athletics Director, Communications
SALEM, Ore. -- Carolynn Keal has been hired by Willamette University as the assistant women's lacrosse coach. Keal will assist Head Coach Sarah Lautenbach with all aspects of the program.
"We are thrilled to be able to welcome Carolynn to our program," Lautenbach said. "She is fiercely competitive and passionate about the sport of lacrosse and coaching, and brings a diverse background of playing and coaching experience that will be a huge asset to our staff. We are very excited to have her join our Bearcat family."
Prior to joining the Willamette lacrosse coaching staff, Keal worked at New England College from 2018 through 2020 as the assistant coach for women's lacrosse. While at New England College, Keal was the primary goalie coach and assisted with the overall program.
She coached the New England Collegiate Conference (NWCC) Player of the Year in 2019 when New England College won the NECC Championship and proceeded to the first round of the NCAA Division III Tournament.
While attending college, Keal played for the Southern Connecticut State University women's lacrosse team. She finished her career by starting every game for the Owls during her four years. She served as a team captain for two years. She set the SCSU single season records for assists and caused turnovers. She finished her career with 161 points on offense.
She completed a bachelor's degree in Biology with a certification in Secondary Education from SCSU in 2018. She earned a Master's of Business Administration with a concentration in Sports, Recreation and Management from New England College in 2020. Originally from Southington, Connecticut, Keal now resides in Salem, Oregon.
