The New Zealand Lacrosse Association is pleased to announce the appointment of Bob Macaluso as the Head Coach for the New Zealand Men’s National Lacrosse Team that will be preparing to participate in the FIL World Lacrosse Championships in Denver 2014.
Director of National Teams Operations, Gavin Higgins commented:
“We are excited to have such a well-respected and highly qualified coach on our side. Bob Macaluso is the quintessential Head Coach. Having a coach of Bob Macaluso’s caliber gives the message that New Zealand is serious about lacrosse. He is the perfect fit to lead the New Zealand Senior Men’s Lacrosse Team at this critical growth stage. Bob brings with him an extensive track record of developing talent and winning lacrosse games.”
To this point Coach Macaluso states, “I am honored to be appointed Head Coach for the New Zealand National Lacrosse Team. I look forward to contributing to the growth and success of New Zealand Lacrosse at every level.”
As the 3rd head coach in the history of the men’s senior team program, he will lead team New Zealand as it looks to build on its successful 2010 World Championship campaign at the 2014 Federation of International Lacrosse (FIL) World Championship in Denver, Colo., July 10-19.
Coach Macaluso has coached many All-League and All-County players as well as 9 High School All-Americans. His teams made the playoffs in each of his final 12 years at the helm and he is credited with over 275 varsity career victories as well as two Suffolk County Championships, two Long Island Championships and a New York State Class-A Championship in 2001. Since retiring, Bob has been a full time volunteer assistant at Long Beach High School, NY (2 years) and a full time volunteer assistant at Wando High School, Mount Pleasant, SC (2 years).
During his career, Bob had the honor of being an assistant coach for the Long Island Empire State Lacrosse Team in both 2000 and 2001. In 2007, he was chosen as an assistant coach for the North team in the First National High School All-Star game sponsored by Under Armor. Upon retirement, he received a Career Achievement Award from the New York State Coaches Association.
Eric Messick, President NZLA
For more information about the New Zealand Men’s National Lacrosse team go to www.nzlacrosse.com or email nzworlds2014@gmail.com