vs.
New Englands
Recent Scores
vs.
New Englands
vs.
Loomis Chaffee School
Win
14-8
vs.
Hotchkiss School
Loss
13-16
vs.
Kent School
Win
5-2
vs.
Kingswood Invitational Tournament
Placed
Zeroth
vs.
Rumsey Hall School
Win
9-8
vs.
New Englands
vs.
Hotchkiss School
Win
6-3
vs.
Salisbury School
News & Announcements
![Four Tafties Win Division I Men’s Lacrosse National Championship]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1685726647/taft/tpgjts4g8u0h3jzcvdhq/NDlax.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1685726647/taft/tpgjts4g8u0h3jzcvdhq/NDlax.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1685726647/taft/tpgjts4g8u0h3jzcvdhq/NDlax.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1685726647/taft/tpgjts4g8u0h3jzcvdhq/NDlax.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1685726647/taft/tpgjts4g8u0h3jzcvdhq/NDlax.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1685726647/taft/tpgjts4g8u0h3jzcvdhq/NDlax.jpg","width":2200}])
Pat ’19 and Chris Kavanagh ’21, and Jeffery ’21 and Thomas Ricciardelli ’22 and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish captured the Division I Men's Lacrosse National Championship, defeating Duke by a score of 13–9.
![Spring Signing Ceremony]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1684518510/taft/gwlbtjwwufrwtli7elvp/group.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1684518510/taft/gwlbtjwwufrwtli7elvp/group.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1684518510/taft/gwlbtjwwufrwtli7elvp/group.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1684518510/taft/gwlbtjwwufrwtli7elvp/group.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1684518510/taft/gwlbtjwwufrwtli7elvp/group.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1684518510/taft/gwlbtjwwufrwtli7elvp/group.jpg","width":2200}])
Sixteen student-athletes across nine sports participated in the third and final National Signing Day on Wednesday evening, May 17, in Bingham Auditorium.
![Boys’ Varsity Lacrosse Set to Take Part in GEICO High School Lacrosse Showcase]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1683660578/taft/dg3f6anobgxi8skxqgrz/_RSF7534_web_.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1683660578/taft/dg3f6anobgxi8skxqgrz/_RSF7534_web_.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1683660578/taft/dg3f6anobgxi8skxqgrz/_RSF7534_web_.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1683660578/taft/dg3f6anobgxi8skxqgrz/_RSF7534_web_.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1683660578/taft/dg3f6anobgxi8skxqgrz/_RSF7534_web_.jpg","width":1440}])
The Rhinos are set to take on the Winged Beavers of Avon Old Farms on May 16, live on ESPNU.
![Peter Frew ’75, Director of Admissions and Head Boys’ Varsity Tennis Coach, Named 2023 Archibald A. Smith III Award Winner]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1682600206/taft/ltpks2uasb9pfcfr6emb/frew.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1682600206/taft/ltpks2uasb9pfcfr6emb/frew.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1682600206/taft/ltpks2uasb9pfcfr6emb/frew.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1682600206/taft/ltpks2uasb9pfcfr6emb/frew.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1682600206/taft/ltpks2uasb9pfcfr6emb/frew.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1682600206/taft/ltpks2uasb9pfcfr6emb/frew.jpg","width":2200}])
Peter Frew '75 named the 2023 Archibald A. Smith III award winner — an award given to a coach for lifetime achievement and commitment to the Founders League ideals of educational excellence, sportsmanship, and outstanding competition.
Overview & Philosophy
Taft’s athletic program is an integral component of school life.
From participants in our intramural programs to elite athletes preparing for competitive careers at the college level, Taft students are taught the value of health and wellness, the importance of a lifelong commitment to fitness, and the enjoyment that participating in all forms of athletics can bring.
In building one of the most successful athletic programs in New England, our coaches encourage fair play, respect for opponents, a love of the game, competitive spirit, and team loyalty. As a result, our students leave Taft with an understanding of hard work and good sportsmanship, a sense of responsibility to one’s team and teammates, the ability to set goals, and an overall commitment to healthy living through physical activity.
Meet Our Varsity Coaches
Head Coach
Boys' Varsity Hockey
Ryan Shannon '01 returns to Taft to lead the hockey team once again--this time from the coaches box.
![Mackenzie Keith]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1663183019/taft/mqvs06kepf2pke8cvyl0/newLancasterMacKenzie.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1663183019/taft/mqvs06kepf2pke8cvyl0/newLancasterMacKenzie.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1663183019/taft/mqvs06kepf2pke8cvyl0/newLancasterMacKenzie.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1663183019/taft/mqvs06kepf2pke8cvyl0/newLancasterMacKenzie.jpg","width":960}])
Head Coach
Girls' Varsity Hockey
Mackenzie comes to Taft to lead the girl's varsity hockey team.
Head Coach
Girls' Varsity Golf
As a coach, Ginger is as interested in modeling character and a commitment to service as she is to instilling a love of the game.
Head Coach
Boys' Varsity Lacrosse
Nic comes to Taft with a storied history as an exceptional prep school coach.
Head Coach
Girls' Varsity Basketball
Coach Willson's teams change from year to year, but all have play unselfishly, smart, and with honor.
Head Coach
Boys' Golf
An accomplished and highly-regarded golfer, Coach Kenerson has led his teams to six Founders League championships.
Head Coach
Wrestling
Head Coach
Softball
Tom's academic focus is on history; his softball teams have made some of their own.
Head Coach
Varsity Football
A scholar, an athlete, and a Rhino through and through, Tyler Whitley returned to his alma mater in 2012 to lead the football team.
![Jennifer Chandler]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1633622346/taft/joajwqdxv29apfwkomjx/JCNEW113681.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1633622346/taft/joajwqdxv29apfwkomjx/JCNEW113681.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1633622346/taft/joajwqdxv29apfwkomjx/JCNEW113681.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1633622346/taft/joajwqdxv29apfwkomjx/JCNEW113681.jpg","width":904}])
Head Coach
Girls' Varsity Squash
Jennifer Chandler is at home on the court and with a racquet in her hand.
Crew Program Director
Head Coach
Girls' Varsity Crew
Will Shotwell brings a world of experience to the water and to the classroom.
Head Coach
Boys' and Girls' Track
Long-time track coach Steve McCabe and his family are deeply ingrained in the fabric of the Taft community.
![Michael Mastrocola '08]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1636733136/taft/denxmhpt3fvkz3ari3kr/1Mastrocola_Michael.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1636733136/taft/denxmhpt3fvkz3ari3kr/1Mastrocola_Michael.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1636733136/taft/denxmhpt3fvkz3ari3kr/1Mastrocola_Michael.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1636733136/taft/denxmhpt3fvkz3ari3kr/1Mastrocola_Michael.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1636733136/taft/denxmhpt3fvkz3ari3kr/1Mastrocola_Michael.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1636733136/taft/denxmhpt3fvkz3ari3kr/1Mastrocola_Michael.jpg","width":2200}])
Head Coach
Varsity Baseball
![Alex Budd]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1636731679/taft/memdtjmc8kyvca2c1esn/AlexBudd2JPG.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1636731679/taft/memdtjmc8kyvca2c1esn/AlexBudd2JPG.jpg","width":495}])
Head Coach
Girls' Varsity Tennis
Alex brings her great tennis knowledge to Taft to lead to the girls' varsity tennis squad.
![Jenna McNicholas]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1636731395/taft/wdtqffzuydls8dfjlkye/McNicholas_Jenna.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1636731395/taft/wdtqffzuydls8dfjlkye/McNicholas_Jenna.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1636731395/taft/wdtqffzuydls8dfjlkye/McNicholas_Jenna.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1636731395/taft/wdtqffzuydls8dfjlkye/McNicholas_Jenna.jpg","width":848}])
Head Coach
Girls' Varsity Lacrosse
![Morgan Manz '13]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1636731065/taft/ncg3p9cfmobgdoubgxrt/newManzMorgan.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1636731065/taft/ncg3p9cfmobgdoubgxrt/newManzMorgan.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1636731065/taft/ncg3p9cfmobgdoubgxrt/newManzMorgan.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1636731065/taft/ncg3p9cfmobgdoubgxrt/newManzMorgan.jpg","width":960}])
Head Coach
Varsity Volleyball
A 2013 graduate, Morgan returned to Taft to lead the varsity volleyball team.
![Jeremy LaCasse]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1636730211/taft/sjpb7j9hcy6jy6v6yuxk/101247_2.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1636730211/taft/sjpb7j9hcy6jy6v6yuxk/101247_2.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1636730211/taft/sjpb7j9hcy6jy6v6yuxk/101247_2.jpg","width":600}])
Head Coach
Varsity Ski Racing
Jeremy has been coaching at Taft for eight years, and it has been a highlight in his coaching career!
![Sam DeMello]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1635797245/taft/enyampthdws44pvzlqae/DeMelloSam.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1635797245/taft/enyampthdws44pvzlqae/DeMelloSam.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1635797245/taft/enyampthdws44pvzlqae/DeMelloSam.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1635797245/taft/enyampthdws44pvzlqae/DeMelloSam.jpg","width":960}])
Head Coach
Girls' Varsity Soccer
Sam brings his soccer experience to Taft to head the girls' varsity soccer team.
![Ann Bell]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1635796711/taft/frlqa3jr5q2lfn0ckf4f/BellAnn.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1635796711/taft/frlqa3jr5q2lfn0ckf4f/BellAnn.jpg","width":456}])
Head Coach
Varsity Field Hockey
![Steve Palmer]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1635796267/taft/hlnaquhnzpjhjja5zshr/PalmerSteve.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1635796267/taft/hlnaquhnzpjhjja5zshr/PalmerSteve.jpg","width":349}])
Head Coach
Girls' Varsity Cross Country
![Al Reiff]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1635791851/taft/tewpbefickuy54c6cowt/ReiffAl.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1635791851/taft/tewpbefickuy54c6cowt/ReiffAl.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1635791851/taft/tewpbefickuy54c6cowt/ReiffAl.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1635791851/taft/tewpbefickuy54c6cowt/ReiffAl.jpg","width":960}])
Head Coach
Boys' Varsity Cross Country
Al took the reins of the boys' varsity cross country team in the fall of 2021 after serving as an assistant for eight years.
![Marty Aspholm]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1634229792/taft/echndqfplj0rrph5d79r/newAspholmMartin.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1634229792/taft/echndqfplj0rrph5d79r/newAspholmMartin.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1634229792/taft/echndqfplj0rrph5d79r/newAspholmMartin.jpg","width":675}])
Head Coach
Boys' Varsity Crew
Martin brings a passion for developing student athletes and for competitive racing to the Taft crew program.
Head Coach
Boys' Varsity Tennis
Peter has taken to the Taft courts as both student and coach. His legendary coaching career now spans 30 years.
Head Coach
Boys' Varsity Basketball
Throughout his life and career, Shavar has been recognized as a leader, and celebrated for his sportsmanship.
Head Coach
Boys' Varsity Soccer
Ozzie is an award-winning coach who has earned tremendous respect both on and off the field. He was recently named 2016 Connecticut Large Prep School Coach of the Year.