The IWLCA has launched the Spark program, a professional development initiative for collegiate coaches with less than four years of head coaching experience. Butler's Head Coach Leah Rubino is among the first cohort selected for this program. Rubino expressed excitement about learning from her peers and the provided opportunity, aiming to enhance her leadership skills while fostering a supportive coaching community. The program includes live learning sessions, online courses, and an in-person workshop at the 2026 IWLCA Convention in Florida.

By the Numbers
  • 18 coaches are part of the inaugural 2026-27 IWLCA Spark cohort.
  • The program runs from August 2026 through January 2027.
State of Play
  • The Spark program targets new head coaches focusing on leadership and coaching philosophy alignment.
  • Participants will engage in mentorship and collaborative learning experiences.
What's Next

The inaugural cohort will begin their training in August 2026, leading up to the IWLCA Convention in November. This initiative aims to empower new coaches, potentially influencing the growth of collegiate lacrosse coaching standards.

Bottom Line

Leah Rubino's selection for the IWLCA Spark program marks a pivotal step in her coaching career, allowing her to gain valuable insights and create a network that will benefit her and her peers in elevating the sport.