REDLANDS, Calif. - The University of Redlands women's lacrosse program is excited to announce the addition of Alexis Parker as an assistant coach for the upcoming season. Parker brings a wealth of international coaching experience, championship success, and a unique academic background in neuroscience to the Bulldogs program.

Parker comes to Redlands fresh off an extraordinary season as head coach at Durham University in England, where she led the women's lacrosse team to the 2024 BUCS (British Universities & Colleges Sport) National Championship and Conference Cup Championship. Her ability to develop elite talent was evident as she coached England and Wales National team members while successfully recruiting Division I and Division III athletes from the United States to compete internationally.

"We are thrilled to have Alexis join our coaching staff," said Head Coach Sean Hansen. "Her recent championship success at Durham University, combined with her unique academic background and playing experience, makes her an invaluable addition to our program. She brings a research-informed approach to coaching that will benefit our student-athletes both on and off the field."

Parker's coaching expertise is built upon an outstanding playing career at both the NCAA Division I and Division II levels. As a student-athlete, she was a two-time NCAA Tournament participant and two-time RMAC Tournament Champion. Her individual accolades include RMAC All-Conference 1st Team honors, Pre-season All America recognition, and multiple academic distinctions including placement on the 4.0 Athletic Academic Honor Roll and IWLCA Division II Honor Roll.
What sets Parker apart in the coaching landscape is her Master of Science in Cognitive Neuroscience from Durham University, where her dissertation research focused on cognitive flexibility in athletes. Combined with her Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience from Regis University, Parker brings a scientific, evidence-based approach to player development and performance optimization.

"Alexis's background in neuroscience allows her to understand the mental aspects of athletic performance in ways that few coaches can," Hansen noted. "This unique perspective will be instrumental in helping our student-athletes reach their full potential."

Beyond her recent success at Durham, Parker has coached at every level of the sport. She has worked with youth programs from U10 through U18, including roles with Nike Lacrosse Camps and Lacrosse Monkey in Minnesota. Her former players have gone on to compete at prestigious institutions including Northwestern University, University of Maryland, Clemson University, Army West Point, and numerous other Division I and Division II programs.

Parker also served as head coach for a middle school soccer team in Jefferson County Schools, leading them to a conference championship in 2023, demonstrating her versatility and leadership across multiple sports.  Her dedication extends well beyond athletics. She has extensive volunteer experience with organizations including the Arizona Humane Society, Children's Hospitals, and international mission work in Guatemala and Peru. This commitment to service aligns perfectly with the University of Redlands' values and mission.

"I'm incredibly excited to join the University of Redlands women's lacrosse program," Parker said. "The opportunity to work with dedicated student-athletes in such a supportive academic environment is exactly what I was looking for. I'm eager to bring my championship experience and research-informed coaching approach to help the Bulldogs compete at the highest level."

Parker will assist with all aspects of the program including recruiting, player development, game strategy, and day-to-day operations. Her appointment is effective immediately as the team prepares for the upcoming season.
The University of Redlands women's lacrosse program competes in the Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SCIAC) and has been building momentum in recent seasons. With Parker's addition to the coaching staff, the program looks to take the next step toward championship contention.