For more than 18 years, Kevin Donahue has been a cornerstone of the Syracuse University men’s lacrosse program. As a Division I Assistant Coach, his influence has extended far beyond the sideline, shaping generations of players and helping define the standard of excellence synonymous with Syracuse lacrosse.

A Hallmark of Excellence in Syracuse Lacrosse

At Syracuse, Donahue has served as the primary coach for midfielders and goalkeepers while playing a critical role in developing the Orange offensive system. His expertise has also been central to coaching face-off specialists, an area that often determines the tempo and outcome of games at the highest level.

Throughout his tenure, Donahue has coached and mentored some of the most accomplished midfielders in the nation, including Paul and Gary Gait, Charlie Lockwood, Dom Finn, Roy Colsey, Matt Caione, Josh Coffman, Spencer Wright, Sean Lindsay, and Steve Vallone. His impact is equally evident among elite face-off men such as Bill Dirrigl, Kirk Pratt, Bob Feisee, and Chris Cercy. Many of these athletes went on to earn national recognition, professional opportunities, and lasting legacies within the sport.

Donahue’s excellence at Syracuse began long before his coaching career. A standout player from West Genesee High School, he arrived on campus as the first of three Donahue brothers to wear the Orange uniform. He quickly established himself as one of the premier midfielders in the country. A three-time All-American, Donahue earned Honorable Mention honors in 1977, Second Team All-American recognition in 1978, and First Team All-American honors in 1979.

A high school and college teammate of future Syracuse head coach John Desko, Donahue became Coach Roy Simmons Jr.’s first First-Team All-American — a milestone achievement that set the tone for decades of Syracuse lacrosse dominance. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Biology from Syracuse University in 1979, balancing academic rigor with elite athletic performance.

Before returning to Syracuse as a coach, Donahue spent seven years coaching lacrosse at West Genesee High School, where he continued to develop young athletes and reinforce the values of discipline, preparation, and leadership. He remains dedicated to education, continuing to teach in the science department and demonstrating a lifelong commitment to learning both on and off the field.

Kevin Donahue’s legacy is one of sustained excellence, mentorship, and impact. Whether developing All-Americans, crafting offensive strategy, or shaping young minds in the classroom, his contributions to the game of lacrosse and to the Syracuse community reflect the very best of the sport.

Kevin and his wife, Laurie, reside in Camillus with their sons and daughter, where family, education, and lacrosse remain central to their lives.