Alex Harper | Forge's new tactical ace with a fun twist
The Fly is about to get more exhilarating as Alex Harper steps into the coaching spotlight for Forge men in 2024.
With 15 years of lacrosse experience and a backstory that includes a herd of reindeer, Harper is not your everyday coach.
Let's get to know the man set to infuse Forge with his unique blend of passion, fun, and strategy.
A Lacrosse Journey Fifteen Years Strong
Harper's lacrosse saga began with Welwyn Warriors and has seen him evolve from a gritty under-16 player to a tactical mastermind on the sidelines. His decade and a half of devotion to the sport is a testament to his deep-rooted love for the game and a promising sign for the Forge squad.
First Feelings: Eager to Hit the Field
When The Fly Sixes Lacrosse league was created, Harper had three words to sum up his feelings: "Wanted to play." While he'll be channelling his competitive spirit into coaching for now, this desire to be directly in the game is exactly the energy he'll bring to his role, promising to keep things engaging and spirited.
Adventures Beyond the Stick
Life with Harper is an adventure — one that has seen him sprinting through the Scottish Highlands with a herd of reindeer hot on his heels. This off-the-field anecdote is just a slice of his dynamic character, adding a layer of depth and excitement to his coaching persona.
Spotlight on the Field: Luke Mills-Doig
One player Harper will be keeping an eye on this year is Luke Mills-Doig, a former teammate turned protege. Their history dates back to 2016, and Harper is thrilled to see Mills-Doig's impressive rise, indicating a keen eye for talent.
An Eye for Greatness: Emilie Chandler
In the women’s competition, Harper has also identified Emilie Chandler as a goalie to watch. His appreciation for skill across teams speaks to his comprehensive understanding of the sport and his recognition that a great goalie like Chandler can be a game-changer in Sixes.
Coaching Style: Encouraging and Passionate with a Side of Fun
Describing his coaching style in three words, Harper says he's encouraging, passionate, and, hopefully, fun. This combination promises to create a vibrant atmosphere for Forge men, where serious play meets serious fun.
Olympic-Sized Dreams
Looking ahead to the LA 2028 Olympics, Harper sees The Fly as pivotal in developing the talent for British Lacrosse and leveraging the platform to grow the sport. He envisions the next four years as a thrilling era of preparation, dedication, and strategic growth for both players and coaches.
Forge's Fresh Face with a Wild Side
As Harper gears up for his first year as an assistant coach with Forge, he's set to become a beloved figure in The Fly community. His strategic acumen, coupled with his engaging personality and passion for the game, make him the ultimate addition to the Forge coaching team.
Get ready to cheer on Forge as they head into a season shaped by Harper's guiding hand — where every play is infused with enthusiasm and every strategy session is as lively as a chase through the Highlands. With Alex Harper on board, Forge is set to become an unstoppable force in The Fly Sixes Lacrosse league.