If you have ever watched a girls’ lacrosse State or National Championship game, chances are you have seen Joan Sitterly on the field. A nationally rated official since 1980, Sitterly has spent decades shaping the game of women’s lacrosse through leadership, education, and service at the highest levels.

A Pioneer and Leader in Women’s Lacrosse Officiating

Sitterly holds an Ed.D. from Syracuse University, a Master of Education degree from the University of Colorado, and a Bachelor of Science degree from SUNY Brockport. Since 2003, she has served as the Director of Athletics at SUNY Cortland, where her leadership has left a lasting impact on the institution. Before assuming that role, she held several administrative positions at Cortland State, including Intern Athletics Associate, Athletics Director, and Senior Administrator.

In addition to her administrative accomplishments, Sitterly built a legendary coaching career. As the head coach of the SUNY Cortland women’s volleyball team, she compiled an extraordinary record of 816–234. That total stands as the second-most wins in NCAA Division III history, a testament to her consistency, leadership, and commitment to excellence.

Sitterly’s influence on women’s lacrosse began long before her officiating career reached national prominence. In the early 1970s, she played in the very first intercollegiate women’s lacrosse program in New York State at SUNY Brockport. Her deep understanding of the game later translated into a passion for officiating and education.

From 1985 to 1995, Sitterly served as an Assigner of Officials and trained women’s lacrosse officials at every level. Through clinics and courses held at SUNY Cortland, she helped develop countless officials, including eight who went on to earn national ratings. Her efforts played a significant role in increasing both the quality and number of girls’ lacrosse officials in the years that followed.

In 1996, Sitterly broke new ground by becoming New York State’s first International Official. She officiated internationally until 2004, further cementing her reputation as one of the most respected officials in the sport. Her résumé includes officiating Division I, II, and III semifinal and championship games, as well as every NYSPHSAA Girls Lacrosse Championship since the tournament’s inception in 1999. She has also officiated every Section V Championship game since its founding.

Joan Sitterly’s career reflects a rare combination of leadership, service, and sustained excellence. Whether on the field, on the sideline, or in the administrative offices, she has helped elevate women’s lacrosse at the local, state, national, and international levels.

Sitterly resides in Newark, New York, where her legacy continues to inspire officials, coaches, and athletes alike.