Established in 2006 by founder Nicholas Colleluori alongside supporters, HEADstrong Lacrosse Club originated to develop the complete student-athlete while supporting cancer initiatives. The club is based in Pennsylvania, runs regional branches in Lehigh Valley and South Jersey, and traces its origins to founder Mandy Gionfriddo when the program was known as the West Chester Patriots. The organization notes it has served over 7,200 student-athletes since inception and is ranked girls #117 on US Club Lax. Families seeking information can reach the club at lacrosse@headstrong.org or find team updates at instagram.com/headstronglc.
WHY FAMILIES CHOOSE US
Why families choose this club
Philanthropic mission
The club ties its lacrosse programming to the HEADstrong Foundation's mission, working to raise awareness and funds to improve quality of life for those affected by cancer.
Community service focus
Athletes are encouraged to become servant leaders through community service and philanthropic ties, empowering them to give back to their communities.
College recruiting support
High school athletes receive assistance through the college recruiting process, including guidance from a dedicated recruiting coordinator role.
Experienced coaching staff
The club's coaching roster features professional, college, and high school coaches providing knowledge and experience across multiple competitive tiers.
PROGRAMS
Programs
HEADstrong operates year-round boys and girls lacrosse programs in Pennsylvania and Lehigh Valley that balance team competition with skill development. The annual calendar includes fall team training and tournament play, alongside winter skill development sessions. During the warmer months, summer team training and tournament play conclude the year-round competitive cycle. In Pennsylvania, the girls program serves the 2027-2031 graduating classes in Chester County and the Philadelphia metro region with an individualized coaching environment.
FallFall team training sessions and fall tournament play
WinterWinter skill development sessions
SummerSummer team training and tournament play
TUITION
Cost to play
Club membership fees vary depending on the team and range from $750 to $2,000 per season, with payment plan options available during registration. Annual registration covers the full fall and summer team seasons including player uniforms, while winter box and spring offerings are available a la carte. Seasonal tryouts for new and returning players require an evaluation fee ranging from $20 to $25.
COACHING
Coaching
Regional general managers
Leadership is structured around named general managers overseeing specific regional divisions, including the Pennsylvania Girls and Lehigh Valley Boys programs.
College head coach
Matthew Brancaccio serves as General Manager of Lehigh Valley Boys Program while in his 10th season as head coach of DeSales men's lacrosse and acting as recruiting coordinator.
Program leadership profile
Pennsylvania Girls General ManagerBecky Elia is an elementary school teacher, Sun Valley High School and Neumann University graduate, and former head coach of the 2027/28 team.
Executive leadership structure
Organization leadership includes HEADstrong Vice PresidentMichael Colleluori and HEADstrong Director of LacrosseJon Knowles, following Mike Bender who served 10 years as general manager before stepping down in 2024.
Matthew Brancaccio
General Manager of Lehigh Valley Boys Program
10th season as head coach of DeSales men's lacrosse; also serves as Recruiting Coordinator for Lehigh Valley Boys.
Becky Elia
General Manager of Pennsylvania Girls Program
Sun Valley High School and Neumann University graduate; former head coach of the 2027/28 team; elementary school teacher.
Mike Bender
Former General Manager of Lehigh Valley Boys Lacrosse Club
Served 10 years as general manager before stepping down in 2024.
Mandy Gionfriddo
Founder of the club when it was the West Chester Patriots
Jon Knowles
HEADstrong Director of Lacrosse
Michael Colleluori
HEADstrong Vice President
CLUB GOALS
Club Goals
The club states its goals are: to provide an unmatched standard of excellence both athletically and academically; to raise awareness and funds to improve quality of life for those affected by cancer; to teach the importance of service and empower student-athletes to become servant leaders; and to offer unique experiences on and off the field.
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