After three seasons leading the Lions, Nassau Community College Men's Lacrosse Head Coach Karl Hedstrom is stepping away from the program to spend more time with his family.
"When I look back at my time here, I won't remember the X's and O's or the final scores," Hedstrom wrote in a heartfelt letter to the Nassau Lacrosse family. "I'm going to remember the daily grind on the Mitch — the freezing practices, the amazing sunsets, and the energy on the bus rides home after big away wins. "
In his message, Hedstrom expressed deep appreciation for his wife, Melissa, whose unwavering support made his coaching journey possible, as well as his daughters, Ava and Addison, whom he called his biggest cheerleaders. "As any coaching family knows, building a successful program demands an immense amount of time and sacrifice," he wrote. "It's time for me to give that time back to them. "
Hedstrom also reflected on the privilege of being part of Nassau's storied lacrosse tradition. He thanked Hall of Fame Coach Richard Speckmann, whose remarkable 40-year tenure and 20 NJCAA National Championships established the program's championship standard, as well as Coach John Savage, a two-time national champion who welcomed him back to the Nassau coaching staff.
He also expressed gratitude to his assistant coaches for their tireless dedication over the past three seasons and to the entire Nassau Lacrosse family, especially Jack Denker and Tom Calder, for their continued support.
During his tenure, Hedstrom helped guide the program through numerous memorable moments, including back-to-back national championships in 2021 and 2022, a thrilling overtime victory over Harford in 2021, and the recognition of multiple Academic All-Americans. Yet, the accomplishment he holds most dear extends beyond wins and championships. "I am far prouder of the culture of accountability and family that we built together," he said. Hedstrom emphasized that Nassau Lacrosse has always been about more than any one coach or player.The program's success, he noted, is rooted in the commitment and character of the student-athletes who uphold its championship tradition every day. "The standard is set by the players holding the sticks, doing the extra wall-ball reps when no one is watching, and holding each other to a championship standard," he wrote.
To the underclassmen, Hedstrom offered a challenge to continue raising the bar and take the program to even greater heights. To the alumni, he expressed gratitude for laying the foundation and supporting him throughout his time in Lions colors. And to the entire Nassau Lacrosse family, he made it clear that although his role is changing, his connection to the program remains as strong as ever. "I am always in your corner," he wrote, "and will always have a special place in my heart for Nassau. Thank you for allowing me to be your coach. It has been the honor of a lifetime. "
"Nassau! "
"Champs for Life! "
The tradition continues.
