Balancing the field and the classroom

As the lacrosse ball arcs through the air, the sound of sticks clashing fills the field, echoing the intensity of the game. For Lauren Nixon, a math teacher and assistant JV lacrosse coach at Cass Tech, the sport isn’t just a game, it is a lively way to stay engaged during her free time.

Now, as a member of an adult lacrosse league, Nixon continues to embrace the sport that held a special place in her heart since college. Her passion for lacrosse was further ignited after attending the Veil Lacrosse competition, ensuring that the game remains a vital part of her life.

 “I’d say a milestone for me was when I got out of college in the lacrosse world in Vail, Colorado,” Nixon said. “They hold a summer lacrosse tournament for anyone who’s in high school and college and then post-college as well. When I was out of college maybe a year or two later, we formed an adult team and competed in the women’s tournament out in Vail.” 

 For Nixon, winning the tournament wasn’t her primary concern, it was rather the opportunity to play the sport she loves and compete as part of a team that mattered most.

 

“We didn’t get first place,”  Nixon said. “I don’t think we even got in the top three. but I would say just being able to form a team and enter [in a] very well-known lacrosse tournament [is a milestone].” 

In addition to playing, Nixon is  actively involved in the lacrosse world by coaching. She had previously coached at North for seven years but stopped during COVID-19 and now coaches at Cass Tech High School.

“I just love this opportunity to get back into coaching the sport,” Nixon said. “I think it’s just one of those sports where it’s still growing, [I love] being able to be a part of that and spread the joy.”

Above all, Nixon’s coaching philosophy is rooted in her profound love for the sport, in addition to guiding players. 

“I just want to be that coach that players enjoy coming and learning from,” Nixon said. “I don’t want to be a chore for them. I’d say the group of girls I’m coaching this year are wonderful and they are so eager to learn.”