On Saturday, Montverde Academy's own assistant boys lacrosse coach and substitute teacher, Tom O'Grady, was honored with an induction into the National Interscholastic Lacrosse Coaches Association (NILCA) Hall of Fame. Coach O'Grady was honored during a ceremony held at the Milleridge Inn in Jericho, New York.
With over 40 years of coaching experience, Coach O'Grady has made significant contributions to the sport of lacrosse at various levels. His coaching journey includes stints at the University of Texas, University of Florida, Adelphi University, and Army West Point. Notably, he led the Winter Park High School boys' and girls' lacrosse teams to Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) championship games, with the Winter Park girls securing the state title in 2002. He remains the only coach in Florida high school lacrosse history to lead both a boys' and a girls' team to the state championship game.
In addition to his coaching accolades, Coach O'Grady co-founded Florida Lacrosse Camps and TeamFLC, organizations dedicated to the development of lacrosse players across the state. His commitment to the sport and its athletes has left an indelible mark on the lacrosse community.
At Montverde Academy, Coach O'Grady continues to inspire and mentor student-athletes, imparting his wealth of knowledge and passion for the game. His induction into the NILCA Hall of Fame is a testament to his dedication and impact on the sport of lacrosse.
"I am humbled to be inducted into the Hall of Fame with such an amazing group of coaches who have spent a lifetime teaching lacrosse and mentoring young men and women," Coach O'Grady stated.