COACH PROFILE

Rachel Sanford

A Legacy of Excellence in Lacrosse Coaching

With a career rooted in passion and achievement, Rachel Sanford has been a transformative figure in the world of lacrosse for over two decades. From her beginnings as a standout athlete to her current role as a mentor and leader, Rachel has dedicated her life to the sport and its development at all levels.

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Rachel Sanford

Early Life and Playing Career

Rachel’s journey with lacrosse began in fourth grade, where she quickly discovered her love for the game. Her natural talent and dedication shone throughout her time at Greenwich High School in Connecticut. A two-time All-American, Rachel played a pivotal role in leading her team to a State Championship in 2001. Her exceptional performance on the field earned her a scholarship to Duke University, where she continued to excel despite facing early adversity.
During her freshman year, Rachel suffered an ACL tear—an injury that could have derailed her career. However, her resilience and determination propelled her to a remarkable comeback. By 2005, she was an integral part of Duke’s ACC Championship-winning team and contributed to the program’s three consecutive NCAA Final Four appearances. A three-year starting midfielder and captain of the 2007 team, Rachel earned All-American honors in 2005, 2006, and 2007. She graduated from Duke with a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and a Markets and Management Certificate.
Rachel’s playing career reached another milestone in 2019 when she was inducted into the Connecticut Lacrosse Hall of Fame, cementing her legacy as one of the sport’s greats.

Transition to Coaching

Rachel’s passion for lacrosse extended beyond her time as a player. She began coaching while still in high school, sparking a lifelong commitment to mentoring young athletes. Over the years, she has coached at the recreational and club levels in both Connecticut and Colorado, developing players at every stage of their lacrosse journeys.
Since 2019, Rachel has served as the head coach of Evergreen High School in Colorado. Under her leadership, the team has achieved incredible success, including two 4A State Championships in 2021 and 2024. Known for her emphasis on fundamentals, team building, and fostering a culture of success, Rachel has become a respected figure in high school lacrosse coaching.
Her coaching philosophy is rooted in her belief that sports offer more than just competition—they provide opportunities for personal growth and connection. “I love seeing athletes learn new skills and apply them,” Rachel shares. “I also love when I see a group of girls playing pick-up or shooting without a coach.”

Professional and Personal Endeavors

In addition to her contributions to lacrosse, Rachel has pursued a dynamic career outside the sport. She earned her MBA from the University of Denver in 2011, equipping her with the skills to excel in business. Today, she is a successful restaurateur in Evergreen, Colorado, balancing her entrepreneurial pursuits with her passion for coaching.
Rachel’s diverse interests extend to officiating lacrosse games, which she finds to be an enriching and competitive outlet. When she’s not on the field, she enjoys playing golf, swimming, skiing, and exploring the emerging sport of pickleball.
Living in Colorado with her husband and two children, Rachel embraces an active lifestyle that mirrors her commitment to health, teamwork, and personal development.

Rain Delay: A New Venture in Sports Innovation

Rachel’s dedication to the lacrosse community led to the creation of Rain Delay, a program she co-founded with Liz Carter. This initiative aims to help coaches and athletes extend their time in the sport by providing resources, tools, and strategies for success. Rain Delay reflects Rachel’s mission to ensure that every player and coach can thrive for as long as possible, both on and off the field.

A Vision for the Future

As a coach, Rachel strives to create an environment where players not only develop their skills but also build lasting relationships and confidence. Her commitment to fostering teamwork and perseverance has left an indelible mark on countless athletes and teams.Rachel Sanford’s journey from standout player to accomplished coach and community leader is a testament to her unwavering dedication to lacrosse and the values it represents. Her story continues to inspire the next generation of players, proving that hard work, resilience, and passion can create a legacy that lasts a lifetime.

Watch Rachel on FDN’s Coaching Corner