Head Coach - Rachael NOLAN

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Coach Rachael will be starting her second year South Forsyth High School as a math educator and her first year as the Head Coach of the Girls Lacrosse Program. She has a decade of experience from Winder-Barrow High School (7 years) and Apalachee High School (3 years). On the field, she played defense for Harrison High School, where her team reached the state playoffs in both 2010 and 2011. In her senior season, the team went undefeated in Region AAAAA Area 1 play, earning the championship title with a 6-0 record. The previous year, they were runners-up with a 5-1 record. Her commitment to excellence both athletically and academically earned her the Wendy’s Heisman recognition at Harrison in 2011.

Rachael helped launch the Oconee Knights Girls' Lacrosse program and coached for two years, contributing to the development of the girls’ team at North Oconee High School. She is passionate about building a supportive and empowering team culture, where each athlete feels valued, challenged, and inspired to grow both on and off the field.

Her coaching philosophy centers on developing well-rounded athletes by fostering resilience, teamwork, and character. She believes that every player has the potential to make a positive impact—not just during games, but in their communities, their classrooms, and their relationships. Her goal is to help athletes find confidence in their unique strengths and joy in shared success.

This year, Coach Rachael will be joined by Jasper, her certified therapy dog, who will be a comforting and cheerful presence at school and lacrosse practices—always ready with a tail wag and some emotional support for the team.