BURLINGTON, Vt.— Head coach Chris Feifs announced Wednesday afternoon that Danny Murphy and Devin Samuelson have been promoted. Murphy was elevated to Associate Head Coach, while Samuelson was named Defensive Coordinator following the Catamounts' successful 2026 campaign.
The promotions come after Vermont finished 4-2 in conference play and earned the No. 3 seed in the America East Men's Lacrosse Tournament. The Catamounts advanced to the program's seventh America East championship game this season.
"Danny Murphy has been a phenomenal assistant coach for UVM lacrosse for the past four years, and I am very proud to promote him to associate head coach," said Feifs. "He has been a vital part of our successes and multiple program firsts in his time in Burlington. From leading our offense and recruiting efforts, he has shown great diligence and commitment and will continue to be a huge asset for this program moving forward."
Murphy oversaw an offense that ranked second nationally in man-up offense, converting on 54.5% of man-up opportunities. Vermont also finished among the top three teams in America East in goals per game (10.86), assists per game (5.79), and points per game (16.64). Junior Max Frattaroli ranked sixth in America East in goals per game, while first-year Zack Toll ranked third in assists and sixth overall in points.
Samuelson led a defense that ranked 14th nationally in clearing percentage with an 89.9% mark. The Catamounts led the conference in ground balls per game (30.64). Vermont also ranked third in the conference in caused turnovers per game (8.07). Junior Jack Combs finished second in the conference in caused turnovers per game and sixth in ground balls per game.
"Devin is one of the best young defensive coaches in the country, and I am proud to promote him to defensive coordinator because he has been running our defense for two years now without my interference," said Feifs. "His development of our midfield defenders, especially, has been incredible to witness. Devin brings out the best qualities of his defensemen and teaches them how to play effectively off others consistently through challenging situations. Our defense will continue to excel under his leadership, and we are lucky to have him at Vermont."
For news and updates about the Vermont men's lacrosse program, follow @UVMmlax on Instagram, X, and Facebook, and visit UVMathletics.com.
