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A Legacy of Excellence: Coach Jack Moran Steps Down After 45 Seasons as Head of Chaminade Lacrosse

Athletics

Posted On

9 Jun, 2025

After 45 seasons, 629 victories, 28 regular-season titles, and 21 NSCHSAA championships, Coach Jack Moran — the architect of one of the most successful high school lacrosse programs in the country — is stepping down as head coach of Chaminade lacrosse. He will continue to serve the program as an advisor and director for player development.

Since 1979, Coach Moran has been more than a coach. He has been a builder of teams, of young men, and of a culture grounded in character, faith, and excellence. Under his leadership, Chaminade lacrosse rose to national prominence, capturing 21 state titles and becoming a source of pride for generations of Flyers. But his most significant impact has never been measured in wins and losses; it’s been in the lives he’s shaped. Ask any player who’s ever worn Crimson and Gold, and they’ll tell you about a coach who demanded their best, believed in who they could become, and taught them what it means to lead with heart.

“Being at Chaminade has been the honor of a lifetime,” said Coach Moran. “I’ve been blessed to work with incredible young men, dedicated families, and a school that truly believes in forming character through sport. I’m excited to take a step back and support the program in a new way while spending more time with my growing family. I’ll always be a Flyer.”

President Bro. Thomas Cleary, S.M. ’81, shared: “Jack’s commitment to excellence has never wavered, but what truly defines his legacy is his love for our Flyers. He is not only a coach but a mentor, a teacher, a witness to faith, and a dear friend of mine. Although I didn’t play lacrosse, he’s made me a better person. His presence has elevated our school and inspired generations of Chaminade Men.”

Athletic Director John Honerkamp ’93 added, “Jack has been a cornerstone of our athletic department and a guiding force in the lives of thousands of athletes. His career is a master class in what it means to lead with purpose. We’re grateful he’ll remain a part of our program and continue to share his wisdom with our coaches and players.”

As we honor Coach Moran’s unmatched career, we are proud to announce that Mr. Gregory Kay ’98 will serve as the next head coach of the Chaminade lacrosse program. A former player and long-serving assistant coach, Greg brings a deep understanding of the program’s values and a lifelong connection to its legacy. As a junior on the 1997 team, the first lacrosse team to be inducted into Chaminade’s Ring of Honor, Greg experienced firsthand the culture Coach Moran built. After a collegiate career at Siena College, he returned to Chaminade in 2002 and has spent over two decades coaching across all levels of the program.

“It’s impossible to replace a Jack Moran,” said Coach Kay. “But I’ll do my best to take the thousands of lessons I—and so many Chaminade lacrosse alumni—have learned from him about being not just lacrosse players, but teammates, students, and most importantly, the best people we can be, and continue to instill those values in our players.”

Supporting Greg in this new era is Associate Head Coach Thomas O’Connell, a 2015 Chaminade graduate and former two-sport All-League athlete. As a player at the University of Maryland, Tom won two Big Ten titles and a 2017 NCAA National Championship, was named a team captain, and received the Dick Edell “Big Man” Award for embodying selfless leadership. A five-time NSCHSAA champion across three sports during his time at Chaminade, Tom now brings elite-level playing experience, a deep love for his alma mater, and a fierce commitment to player development. In addition to his role on the varsity staff, Tom will also serve as the new Director of Chaminade Lacrosse Camp, helping to mentor and inspire the next generation of Flyers.

“Continuing to pursue the excellence and standard Coach Moran has set over the last 45 years is an honor and a privilege,” said Coach O’Connell. “Building upon his legacy and the positive impact he has had on all his players is no small feat, but I am excited for the opportunity to help bring Chaminade lacrosse to new heights.”

As we celebrate the remarkable contributions of Jack Moran and look ahead with gratitude and optimism, one thing remains certain: Chaminade lacrosse will always be defined by excellence, tradition, and the unwavering commitment to forming young men of character, something Jack dedicated himself to, day in and day out, for 45 years.

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