According to a recent report by Syracuse.com's Brent Axe, a former Syracuse Orange lacrosse star could become the next head coach at LeMoyne. Powell has recently interviewed for the LeMoyne Dolphins recent opening, per Axe.

Why is the LeMoyne Dolphins men's lacrosse job open?

Following the conclusion of the 2026 season, Dan Sheehan announced his retirement. The 53-year-old Sheehan spent 29 seasons as the head coach of the Dolphins. A Syracuse native, Sheehan transitioned into a leadership role with the college in June. 

How successful have the LeMoyne Dolphins been in men's lacrosse?

Sheehan's tenure as the head coach of the Dolphins is one of the most successful in collegiate lacrosse history. In nearly three decades as the head coach, the Dolphins won six national championships. at the Division II level. Sheehan's career win total and .820 winning percentage both rank among the top 12 of any head coach in college lacrosse history. 

In 2023, all LeMoyne teams, including men's lacrosse, transitioned from the Division II level to the Division I level. 

Statement from Dan Sheehan (@PhinsCoach) on his retirement pic.twitter.com/ygjdwKaUF6

— Le Moyne College Men's Lacrosse (@LeMoyneMLax) June 10, 2026

Why would Casey Powell be a good for LeMoyne lacrosse?

Since making the move to Division I, the Dolphins have accumulated a 16-25 overall record. For LeMoyne, a hiring like Powell could have a factor in multiple facets in the program.

First off, LeMoyne is located in Syracuse, a spot that has traditionally produced many Division I players annually. If Powell is able to recruit some players locally, the Dolphins could begin to find more wins for the future.

Plus, Powell's legacy as a player still has popularity in the Central New York. One of the legendary Powell brothers, Casey Powell is one of the best lacrosse players in Syracuse Orange history.

Powell was a three time All-American and helped lead the Orange to the 1995 national championship. Powell's No. 22 jersey number has been honored by the program as well.

Following his collegiate career, Powell spent over 15 years playing professionally. 

Powell has never been a college head coach, but in recent years has been operating coaching clinics for young lacrosse players.

Kicked off the CP22 Legacy Academy in Colorado. Like my coach said, “If you do the little things, then you can do big things.”

This is where the best get better. https://t.co/iCO8bOdNXopic.twitter.com/yju6022RMF

— Casey Powell (@caseypowell22) June 2, 2026

What does it mean for Syracuse lacrosse?

Should Powell get the job, he'll be one of many former Syracuse Orange lacrosse players who are college head coaches. The list includes coaches like current Syracuse head coach Gary Gait, and John Galloway, who recently led Jacksonville to a NCAA tournament appearance. 

The Orange have yet to release their 2027 schedule, but is possible the Orange and Dolphins could start creating a new Upstate New York rivalry if Powell is hired.

After 107 meetings, Syracuse ended their series with fellow New York state school Hobart in 2024. LeMoyne may a candidate to replace the former spot of the Hobart Statesmen on the Orange's non-conference schedule. 

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