Merrick Thomson Returns to UAlbany Men's Lacrosse as Assistant Coach
ALBANY, N.Y. – Former Great Dane standout attackman Merrick Thomson has returned to his alma mater to serve as an assistant coach starting in the 2016 season, announced by UAlbany head coach Scott Marr on Monday.
Thomson has spent the last six years as the head coach of the Hill Academy, a prep school in his native Canada. Thomson led the Hill Pride to a combined 68-13 record over the past five seasons. While a coach, he also served as the assistant dean of students and an academic advisor.
“It is a great honor to come back and coach at the University at Albany. UAlbany Lacrosse is very close to my heart and it is one of the only places that could have taken me away from The Hill Academy in Toronto,” says Thomson. “The University at Albany gave me a chance to better my life through education and athletics, and this opportunity to return will allow me to give back not only to the university but also to the surrounding Capital District Area.”
"We welcome Merrick back with open arms!” said Marr. “After my son, Kyle, spent a year at The Hill, we know Merrick brings tremendous coaching ability. Furthermore, as an alum, he carries a true love for the University and our program. We couldn't be happier for Merrick to reconnect with our family!”
As a player, Thomson was one of UAlbany's top offensive players of all-time. From 2004-07, he helped the Great Danes earn three America East titles and the program's first Division I NCAA Tournament victory. He was a Third Team All-American in 2007. He finished his career as the program's all-time leading scorer with 244 points and 188 goals, currently standing third and second respectively in those categories in UAlbany history. When he finished his collegiate career, he stood fourth all-time in NCAA Division I history in goals scored, currently standing seventh.
Thomson earned his undergraduate degree in 2007 and also earned his Master's Degree in education administration at UAlbany in 2009. He served as a member of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee from 2005 to 2007.
Thomson also had a post-collegiate career, playing for the New Jersey Pride and Toronto Nationals in Major League Lacrosse and the Philadelphia Wings in the National Lacrosse League. He was named the Most Improved Player of the Year in 2008 and led Toronto to the 2009 Steinfeld Cup, being named the playoffs MVP. He also represented Team Canada in international play, leading the squad to the 2007 International Lacrosse Federation World Indoor title.
He will serve as the team's assistant coach and offensive coordinator, joining Marr, associate head coach and classmate Liam Gleason and director of operations Donald Shea.
