Collegeville, MN,

For Immediate Release

Derek Daehn, the University of St. Johns Men’s Head Lacrosse Coach, announced his retirement effective June 1, 2022. Daehn served in his current role since 2009 and has coached 201 MCLA games, with a record of 127 wins and 74 losses. Daehn made an appearance in an MCLA leading,10, Division 2 National Championship Tournaments and amassed a tournament record of 13-10, with one appearance in the MCLA National Championship Game. 

"Over the past 14 seasons, I have had the opportunity to live out a professional dream as the head coach at St. Johns," Daehn said. "I have been blessed to work with incredible, gifted young men who allowed us to coach them and brought me unmatched joy. I cannot overstate our gratitude to the players, families, coaches, and administrators who have been with us on this path. It has been an honor and a privilege to work at St. Johns, especially under AD Bob Alpers, Assistant AD Nicci Malecha, and the many assistants that have been a part of the program."

"Now, though, it's time for us to enter a new era of Johnnie Lacrosse. After 14 years of coaching SJU, I am proud and excited to hand over the reins to a member of our Johnnie Lacrosse family, Adam Benney (SJU 09’).

Benney is a 2009 graduate of St. Johns University, and a member of the St. Johns Coaching Staff since 2014.  2011-12 Benney was an Assistant at St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN.  Since 2015 Benney has run the SJU Defense and led recruiting efforts.    

"When looking for a successor, we wanted a candidate who could navigate the changing landscape of MCLA Lacrosse and keep St. Johns in a position of strength—now and in the future," said Daehn. "Adam understands the power of the Community at SJU and the MCLA. I am very excited for him to take the program to the next step.”

Even though Daehn is retiring as head coach, he is committed to keeping Johnnie lacrosse as part of his life. He plans on staying in touch with former players and is quick to point out that he is only a phone call away for new coach, Benney.