Bernhardts Return To Round Out Maryland Men’s Lacrosse Staff


COLLEGE PARK, Md. – Maryland men’s lacrosse coach John Tillman announced today that Jake and Jesse Bernhardt have returned to the program as members of the coaching staff. Jesse will be the Terps’ volunteer assistant coach, while Jake will serve as the program’s director of lacrosse operations.

“I’m thrilled to welcome back Jake and Jesse as members of our staff,” said Tillman. “They are two of the finest student-athletes I’ve had the privilege to coach. I’m pleased to welcome them back to College Park. As sons of a successful and well-respected coach, they possess the character and work ethic that you want the players in your program to be exposed to. In addition, they understand the importance and great tradition of Maryland Lacrosse.”

Jesse Bernhardt returns as the volunteer assistant coach and will be helping with the Terps’ overall defense, man-down unit and faceoff wings. Jesse was a two-time All-America long pole midfielder for Maryland from 2010-13, helping lead the Terps to the 2011 ACC tournament title and back-to-back appearances in the NCAA championship game in 2011 and 2012. After graduating in 2013, Bernhardt continued his lacrosse career in Major League Lacrosse, where he helped the Chesapeake Bayhawks capture the 2013 MLL Championship as a starting close defender. He is currently one of 52 players competing for a spot on the U.S. National Team that will compete at the 2014 FIL World Championships in Denver in July.

“Jesse was like a coach on the field for us for the past couple of seasons, so it’s a natural fit for him to come back in a coaching capacity,” said Tillman. “His experience this past summer, playing close defense for the Bayhawks and his continuing experience with Team USA gives him a broader perspective and some fresh ideas to bring to the program.”

As the director of lacrosse operations, Jake Bernhardt will be involved with every aspect of the Terrapin program from an administrative perspective, including overseeing team travel and meals, camp operations, practice scheduling and helping coordinate with the program’s other support units, including academics, community engagement, equipment, marketing, media relations and sports medicine. Bernhardt was a successful two-way midfielder from 2009-11 and 2013, helping the Terps win the 2011 ACC tournament title and reach the 2011 NCAA championship game. After graduating in 2013, Bernhardt continued his lacrosse career as a member of the MLL’s Ohio Machine.

“Jake was a two-time captain and his responsibilities as a leader in our program will be invaluable. He is passionate, organized and very bright. Brian Phipps and Fran Gormley set a high bar here in their role in this position, but I am confident that Jake will do a terrific job as well.” said Tillman.

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