Gannon University women's lacrosse assistant coach Sara Kilian has been selected as a member of the 2025–26 IWLCA Aspire Assistant Coach Program, the Intercollegiate Women's Lacrosse Coaches Association announced this week.
Kilian, who will be in her third season on the Golden Knights' coaching staff in 2026, is among just 30 assistant coaches nationwide chosen for the Aspire cohorts. The professional development program, which launched in 2024, provides intensive training and leadership growth opportunities for rising coaches across all NCAA divisions.
Building a Coaching Profile
As part of the "Aspire to Inspire" Cohort, Kilian joins peers from programs including UConn, Notre Dame, Towson, and Grand Valley State. The initiative blends in-person workshops with virtual learning sessions and will wrap up in January 2026, just in time for Kilian and the Golden Knights to shift focus to their competitive campaign.
Gannon Impact
Since arriving in Erie, Kilian has brought energy and tactical expertise to the Golden Knights. Working alongside head coach Jenny Pawlowski, she has played a key role in developing players, supporting recruiting efforts, and strengthening Gannon's presence within the highly competitive Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC).
"I am thrilled for Sara to have this opportunity for continued professional development and networking within collegiate women's lacrosse," said Pawlowski. "She is part of an excellent second cohort of the Aspire program through the IWLCA."
National Recognition
The Aspire program has quickly earned a reputation for shaping future leaders in women's lacrosse. Stanford assistant coach Kelsey Howard, a member of the inaugural 2024 cohort, praised the experience for helping her "dig deeper into [her] own personal and professional development".
Kilian now takes her place among that circle of emerging leaders, bringing back knowledge and perspective that will benefit both her student-athletes and the wider Gannon community.
About the IWLCA
The Intercollegiate Women's Lacrosse Coaches Association is a 501(c)(3) non-profit educational organization representing over 1,200 coaches and staff at NCAA Division I, Division II, Division III, and NAIA collegiate programs. The mission of the IWLCA is to lead, serve, and honor the game of women's lacrosse and those who coach it.
