US Indoor Lacrosse Announces Shaylan Ahearn to Head Up - 2026 U21 Women's Indoor Team

by Graham D'Alvia

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

U.S. Indoor Lacrosse Names Shaylan Ahearn Head Coach of 2026 USA U21 Women’s Indoor Lacrosse Team

NEW YORK, NY – U.S. Indoor Lacrosse (USIL) is proud to announce the appointment of Shaylan Ahearn as the Head Coach of the 2026 USA U21 Women’s Indoor Lacrosse Team. Ahearn will lead the squad as they compete for gold at the 2026 IIJL World Women’s Junior Lacrosse Championship, hosted at the Servus Sports Centre and VisitLethbridge.com Arena in Lethbridge, Alberta.

“We are very excited to announce Shaylan (Shay) Ahearn as the Head Coach for the USA U21 Women's Indoor Lacrosse Team,” said USIL President Graham D'Alvia. “Shay is one of the top lacrosse players to come out of Maryland; her playing career speaks for itself. I am confident that, combined with her passion for winning, leadership, and management skills, Shay will lead this year’s team to our goal: winning the Gold Medal.”

About Shaylan Ahearn

Ahearn joins the USIL coaching staff following a highly decorated playing career at the University of Maryland, where she served as a two-time captain. Her collegiate accolades include being named a 2024 USA Lacrosse Third Team All-American, the 2023 Big Ten Midfielder of the Year, and a two-time First Team All-Big Ten selection (2023, 2024). A three-time All-American honoree and seven-time Big Ten Midfielder of the Week, she was consistently recognized on the Tewaaraton Award Watch List.

Beyond the field, Ahearn has established herself as an elite coach and mentor. Her experience includes:

  • Assistant Coach, Loyola University Maryland (2024–25)

  • Associate Head Coach, Glenelg Country School (2025–26)

  • Director, Hero’s Summer Skills Lacrosse

  • Owner, Shay’s Performance Lacrosse

  • Draw Director, Hero’s TLC

Ahearn’s commitment to excellence extends to the classroom, where she was recognized as a Big Ten Distinguished Scholar and earned Academic All-Big Ten honors.

About USIL Inc.

U.S. Indoor Lacrosse is dedicated to promoting the culture and growth of indoor lacrosse in the United States. By creating opportunities for players, coaches, and officials of all backgrounds to participate and advance in the sport, USIL fosters development through national and local events, club programs, and educational initiatives.

For more information about U.S. Indoor Lacrosse and the 2026 USA U21 Women’s Indoor Lacrosse Team, please visit www.usindoorlacrosse.org.

Media Contact: U.S. Indoor Lacrosse Email: info@usindoorlacrosse.org Website: www.usindoorlacrosse.org