ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

Lacrosse is a sport where talent, grit, and a deep love for the game converge. Few players embody these qualities better than Chris Conlin, whose journey from Chatham High School in New Jersey to the heights of collegiate lacrosse—and eventually to the professional ranks—is a testament to hard work, determination, and skill. From his early years in Chatham to his triumphant victory at the Division I level and his professional career with the Premier Lacrosse League (PLL), Conlin’s career serves as a model of success and perseverance for lacrosse players everywhere.

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Early Beginnings: Chatham High School

Chris Conlin’s lacrosse journey began in his hometown of Chatham, New Jersey, where he attended Chatham High School. Conlin was a standout defender from the start, earning a reputation for his strong physical play, tenacity, and leadership on the field. At Chatham High, he quickly became known for his ability to shut down opposing attackers while maintaining a high level of poise and strategic thinking. His skill set made him an invaluable asset to the team and caught the attention of college scouts.

As a high school player, Conlin was honored with numerous accolades, including being named to All-County and All-State teams. He was also a team Captain and key contributor to Chatham's success, setting the foundation for his future at the collegiate level. His performances earned him a D1 spot at Holy Cross.

 

Holy Cross: Building a Foundation for Success

After high school, Conlin continued his lacrosse career at the College of the Holy Cross. As a freshman, Conlin immediately showed he had the skills to compete at the highest level, joining the Crusaders’ defense and quickly earning a starting spot. Throughout his time at Holy Cross, he developed into one of the premier defensive players in the country.

 

While at Holy Cross, Conlin was recognized for his exceptional defensive abilities. His combination of athleticism, game awareness, and physicality made him a key player for the Crusaders. Conlin’s ability to shut down some of the most dynamic attackers in college lacrosse earned him All-Conference honors during his tenure, and he quickly garnered a reputation as one of the most reliable and unrelenting defenders in the NCAA. Conlin’s story didn’t end with Holy Cross. His potential didn’t go unnoticed, and he soon earned an opportunity to transfer to one of the most storied programs in the sport: the University of Notre Dame.

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Notre Dame: Two National Championship and the Pinnacle of Success

At Notre Dame, Conlin would take his game to even greater heights. The Fighting Irish, under the leadership of head coach Kevin Corrigan, were national championship contenders, and Conlin’s arrival gave their defense a rock-solid foundation. His transition from Holy Cross to Notre Dame was seamless, as he continued to play with the same ferocity and strategic mindset that had made him so successful in college lacrosse.

 

Both of his years at Notre Dame, 2023 and 2024, Conlin's hard work and commitment paid off in the form of two national championship titles. The 2023 D1 Lacrosse National Championship game was an unforgettable showdown between Notre Dame and Duke, where Notre Dame clinched its first-ever national title in a thrilling 13-9 victory. The Irish displayed a perfect blend of poise, power, and precision, overcoming a talented Duke squad to secure the crown. The 2023 National Championship victory wasn’t just about star power—it was the team effort, with each player executing their role flawlessly. They had answered every challenge Duke threw at them with resilience and a calm confidence that only a championship team possesses. This win was a testament to their grit, preparation, and unbreakable unity and Chris Colin exhibits all of those traits. 

 

In 2024, Chris played a key defensive role for the Fighting Irish when they defeated the University of Maryland 15-5 capturing the NCAA Division I Lacrosse Championship for the second year in a row. For Conlin, this victory was the culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice, and dedication to the game. His role as a defender was crucial in Notre Dame’s defensive game plan, and he was celebrated for his ability to disrupt the opposition’s offense and provide leadership on the field.

 

Awards and Accolades

Chris Conlin’s impressive career was decorated with a number of accolades, both at the collegiate and national levels. Here are some of the highlights:

• All-Conference Honors (Patriot League): Conlin was named to the All-Conference team during his time at Holy Cross for his exceptional play on the defensive end.

• NCAA Division I Championship (2023 and 2024): Conlin helped lead Notre Dame to a national championship in 2023 and 2024 cementing his legacy as a top-tier defender at the Division I level.

• All-American Honors: During his time at Notre Dame, Conlin earned several All-American selections, including multiple Honorable Mention and Second-Team All-American distinctions.

• Team Captain:  Conlin served as a captain while at Chatham High School and also at Holy Cross for 2 years, a recognition of his leadership both on and off the field.

 

Professional Lacrosse: The California Redwoods and the PLL

After completing his college career, Conlin transitioned to professional lacrosse and found success in the Premier Lacrosse League (PLL), joining the California Redwoods. His pro career allowed him to continue showcasing his defensive prowess at the highest level of the sport.

 

As a member of the Redwoods, Conlin quickly became a fixture on their defense, contributing his tenacious and disciplined style of play to a team filled with some of the best lacrosse players in the world. His ability to lock down top-level offensive players and his leadership qualities helped elevate the Redwoods’ defensive unit and solidified his place in the professional lacrosse ranks.

Though Conlin’s pro career with the Redwoods was a pivotal step in his journey, it was also part of a broader movement within the PLL to grow the sport and showcase its stars. His work ethic and commitment to the game remained a model for younger players coming up through the ranks.

 

Legacy and Influence

Chris Conlin’s journey from Chatham High School to winning two Division I national championships at Notre Dame and playing professional lacrosse in the PLL is a story of perseverance, hard work, and excellence. He exemplifies the qualities that all lacrosse players strive for: commitment, leadership, and the drive to be the best. Whether it was his lockdown defense at Notre Dame or his contributions to the California Redwoods, Conlin’s impact has been felt across all levels of lacrosse.

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His success also serves as an inspiration for aspiring lacrosse players, especially those from Chatham showing us that with the right mindset and a relentless work ethic, anything is possible. Conlin’s journey proves that hard work and dedication can lead to the ultimate achievement—a national championship, a professional lacrosse career, and a lasting legacy in the sport.

 

For the Chatham lacrosse community in New Jersey and beyond, Conlin remains a proud example of what can be accomplished through determination, skill, and the love of the game. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of players, both in college and professional lacrosse, to chase their dreams and strive for greatness.