SOUTHFIELD, Mich. — Lawrence Technological University Athletics has announced the hiring of Brad Hillard as the new head coach of the Lawrence Tech women's lacrosse program, bringing more than a decade of coaching experience across the youth, high school, club, and collegiate levels to the Blue Devils.
Hillard takes over a Lawrence Tech program that is coming off another successful season, earning a berth in the NAIA Women's Lacrosse National Tournament. He will look to build upon the program's tradition of success while continuing to develop student-athletes both on and off the field.
"I am incredibly honored to join Lawrence Technological University and become part of the Blue Devil family," said Hillard. "LTU has built a program with a strong tradition of success, and I am excited to continue moving it forward. Our goal is to develop outstanding young women who compete with confidence, represent the university with pride, and pursue championships while growing as students, leaders, and teammates."
Hillard most recently launched and led the Michigan State University Women's Club Lacrosse program, guiding the team to a National Championship Tournament appearance during its inaugural season. Prior to his time at Michigan State, Hillard helped guide DeWitt High School to back-to-back Regional Championships and consecutive MHSAA State Semifinal appearances. During his time with DeWitt, he coached multiple USA Lacrosse All-Americans, 18 All-State selections, and numerous players who went on to compete at the collegiate level.
In addition to his collegiate and high school experience, Hillard coaches with MD LAX, one of Michigan's premier club lacrosse programs, continuing his commitment to developing young athletes and growing the game of women's lacrosse throughout the state.
Hillard succeeds Mary Ann Meltzer, who has been a significant part of the Lawrence Tech women's lacrosse program's history. Meltzer began coaching at LTU in 2015 and helped establish a strong foundation for the program before stepping away from coaching for two seasons. She returned to the Blue Devils last season to lead the program for one final campaign, guiding LTU to another appearance in the NAIA Women's Lacrosse National Tournament.
Meltzer's impact on Lawrence Tech Athletics extends well beyond her time on the sideline. She was inducted into the Lawrence Technological University Athletics Hall of Fame as a member of the Class of 2025, recognizing her accomplishments and contributions to the Blue Devil athletic community.
A passionate advocate for the growth of women's lacrosse, Hillard is committed to creating a culture centered on accountability, relationships, excellence, and personal growth. He will look to continue developing confident student-athletes while competing for championships and representing Lawrence Tech with pride.
"I am excited to lead Lawrence Technological University's Women's Lacrosse program into its next chapter and help develop confident students, leaders, and championship-caliber competitors," said Hillard.
Hillard and the Blue Devils will begin preparations for the upcoming season as Lawrence Tech looks to build upon another NAIA National Tournament appearance and continue the program's tradition of excellence.
