Girls lacrosse in Central New York did not grow by accident. Its rapid and sustained rise is the result of vision, leadership, and tireless dedication. At the center of that growth stands Cynthia Wetmore, the current Head Coach of the SUNY Cortland Women’s Lacrosse Team and one of the most influential figures in the region’s lacrosse history.

The Force Behind the Growth of Girls Lacrosse in Central New York

Wetmore’s impact reaches far beyond wins and losses. While her collegiate coaching record at Cortland speaks for itself, her greatest contribution lies in how she built opportunity where little previously existed and helped establish a foundation that continues to elevate the game today.

Building a Program from the Ground Up

Before her success at the collegiate level, Wetmore transformed girls’ lacrosse at Cicero–North Syracuse High School. She took a club-level program and built it into a fully developed and sustainable system, expanding it to include Varsity, Junior Varsity, Freshman, and two Modified teams. Her work created a clear developmental pathway for young athletes and ensured the program’s long-term success.

Under her leadership, Cicero–North Syracuse quickly became a powerhouse. The team captured Class A championships in 2005 and 2006 and earned a second-place finish in 2007. More importantly, the program consistently produced players who went on to earn collegiate scholarships and compete in major tournaments, extending Wetmore’s influence well beyond the high school level.

Leadership Beyond the Sidelines

Wetmore’s commitment to the sport extended into administrative leadership. She served as the first OHSL Chair and the first Section III Chair, roles that allowed her to shape policy, structure, and growth for girls lacrosse across the region. These positions helped standardize competition and provided legitimacy and visibility to a sport that was still gaining traction in Central New York.

Her leadership ensured that girls’ lacrosse was not only played, but supported, organized, and positioned for long-term success.

A Proven Collegiate and Multi-Sport Coach

Wetmore holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Rhode Island and an Associate of Science degree from Herkimer Community College. In addition to her lacrosse accomplishments, she also served as Head Coach of the SUNY Cortland Field Hockey Team, where she compiled an impressive record of 139 wins and 35 losses.

Her success across multiple sports reflects a deep understanding of athlete development, team culture, and competitive excellence.

Recognition Earned Through Impact

Wetmore’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. She received the NOW Unsung Heroine Award for Trailblazers in Sport in recognition of her pivotal role in establishing and advancing girls’ lacrosse in Central New York. She has also been named OHSL Coach of the Year five times and earned Section III Coach of the Year honors in 2016.

Each award represents more than personal achievement — it reflects the countless athletes, programs, and communities that have benefited from her leadership.

A Lasting Legacy

Cynthia Wetmore did more than coach teams; she built systems, opened doors, and created opportunities for generations of female athletes. The strength of girls’ lacrosse in Central New York today stands as a testament to her vision and perseverance. Her legacy lives on in the programs she built, the leaders she developed, and the sport she helped grow.