University of Mount Saint Vincent Athletics

The University of Mount Saint Vincent's athletic department appointed James Fitzgerald as the newest head coach of the men's lacrosse program in the fall of 2021, and he will be entering 2026-27 for his sixth season season. 

Before taking over as the lead, Fitzgerald served as the team's assistant coach from 2019 through 2021. He is also the department's associate athletic director with a focus on recruiting and budgeting.

Fitzgerald's 2026 season was his best, both personally and for the program. The Dolphins tied for a career best six wins under Fitzgerald while also earning a Skyline Conference Postseason Berth for the first time in program history after going 3-4 in conference play. 

Fitzgerald previously saw growth throughout his head coaching career. The team combined to go 17-41 in his first four seasons but has saw an increase in wins each year, both overall and in conference play. 

Fitzgerald has a longstanding tie to the lacrosse program that goes beyond coaching. The Putnam Valley, New York native was recruited to the college out of high school by Dan Mulholland and suited up for the Dolphins in all four of his playing years. The defenseman was extremely successful throughout his playing days, as he started all 54 career games he played in while accumulating 111 caused turnovers, 167 ground balls, 26 goals and 18 assists. Fitzgerald currently ranks first in program history in caused turnovers, seventh in ground balls and was the second player in program history to be named to the Skyline Conference's first team after his senior season.

After his playing days, Fitzgerald returned to UMSV as a graduate student, serving primarily in the Sports Information department. He was promoted to Sports Information Officer in the summer of 2019.