EAU CLAIRE, Wis. (www.blugolds.com) – University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire Athletic Director Jason Verdugo has announced the hiring of Michael Rhodovi to lead the UW-Eau Claire women's lacrosse program.
"Among the strong group of candidates, Michael really separated himself by sharing a strong strategic vision for the program and more importantly the long term vision of the program," said Verdugo. "Michael's extensive experience will help our program continue to evolve into a top notch program for Blugold athletics"
Coach Rhodovi comes to the Midwest from Maryland where he served as an assistant coach at Hood College for one season and was connected through many youth lacrosse organizations.
"I am totally excited and honored to join UWEC Women's Lacrosse program as the new head coach! This truly is my dream job and both my family, and I are extremely thankful for this opportunity. I want to thank our Director of Athletics Jason Verdugo, Chancellor Jim Schmidt, and the search committee for selecting me for this tremendous honor," said Rhodovi. "I would like to thank my girlfriend, Jennifer, who's been my rock and supported my efforts in pursuing my dream. I would also like to thank Coach Neubert for always being available to help me transition smoothly, entrusting me in leading the program she began. I can't wait to get to work with these amazing Blugold student-athletes, and I know they're itching to get started as well."
Prior to Hood, Rhodovi was an assistant coach at Howard Community College from 2019-22. Rhodovi also spent nine seasons as head coach at Wilde Lake High School and was also a coach for Rebels LC Maryland.
Coach Rhodovi has a deep passion for coaching that can be traced back to 1993; where after graduation he began coaching youth sports starting with rec & club youth organizations (Howard Huskies & Tri-City Eagles Ice Hockey Clubs, Laurel Steelers, Elkridge Hurricanes football programs, HC Lax). An active board member with Howard County Lacrosse Program (2007-2019); Rhodovi has coached hundreds of boys and girls from recreation, high school and travel programs (Cobra Lacrosse) to elite Club programs (HoCo Girls LC 2014-2021, Rebels LC 2022 - 2023) including select tournament teams (MD Metro Women's U19 Team for the National School Girl Memorial Day Tournament, 2017- 2023).
In 2014 he Co-started the HoCo Girls Lacrosse Club and served as program Director until 2019; also serving as coach of the 2021 Black Team from 2014 to graduation in 2021 (2015). He was the recipient Howard County Good Sports Award - GoodSports is a MARPSA program that goes beyond sportsmanship encouraging local athletes and coaches to take responsibility for their actions and behaviors on and off the field to assure the best sporting experience for all.
Coach Rho is a father of two and will reside in Eau Claire, but his home is in Alexandria, Va.
What They're Saying About Michael Rhodovi
Emily Barber, Hood College Head Women's Lacrosse Coach
"I am so excited for the UW-Eau Claire Blugolds! Mike is a great fit to lead the program forward. He brings a solid combination of knowledge, passion, and energy to any team. I am excited to see the positive impact he will have on the University, the lacrosse program, and community!"
Michael Haight, Owner of thinkLAX
"Michael Rhodovi is one of the most committed coaches that I've worked with. Michael's passion for the women's lacrosse Game is absolutely impressive. He will transform this program through great relationships and his knowledge for the game!"
Virginia Kincaid, West Lake High School Assistant Lacrosse Coach
"Coach Rhodovi will be surely missed as he moves onto his new challenges at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. He had a huge impact in the Baltimore Metro area growing the sport at the high school, club and college level."
Ella Novak, UW-Eau Claire Women's Lacrosse Midfielder
"Coach Rhodovi stands out because of his ability to connect with, understand, and coach each player as an individual. Being able to recognize each player's strengths and weaknesses, he creates a team where everyone can play off each other, leaving no loose ends. I have never played for a more technical, hardworking, and caring coach than Michael Rhodovi. I cannot wait to see him take the Blugold Women's Lacrosse Program to the next level."
