Meet the Coaches
A staff of fully committed professionals whose goal is to teach the game of lacrosse and share their passion for the game.
CLass of 2029 Coaches
MaTT HILBURN
Head Coach of Class 2029
Matt played lacrosse at Boston University where he served as captain for three straight years.
His awards included:
• USILA Scholar All-American (2022)
• New England All-Academic Team (2022)
• Patriot League Academic Honor Roll (2021, 2020)
In high school Matt played three seasons of varsity lacrosse for Malvern Prep, which finished 2018 as the 11th ranked team in the country after claiming the Inter-Ac League title. He collected the team’s Sportsmanship Award as a senior and also earned honorable mention status for the Mainline Area.
justin sherer
Assistant Coach of Class 2029
jim sChorn
Assistant Coach of Class 2029
CLass of 2030 Coaches
Todd Cliggett
Founder/Head Coach of Class 2030
Todd Cliggett is the founder and a coach for Dtown Dawgs. He Graduated from Conestoga High School after which Todd played 4 years at Salisbury University in Mens Lacrosse. In his collegiate careers he played in two National Championship games in 1991 & 1994, winning the National Championship in 1994. Todd was named the offensive coordinator at Episcopal Academy from 1995-2001, winning 2 state championships in 1995 & 1996. After his time at Episcopal Academy Todd was named offensive coordinator at Conestoga High School from 2003-2008 and at Downingtown East High School from 2009-2010. Todd was named Head Coach at Downingtown East (2011-2019). Additionally Todd was the Defensive coordinator for the Philadelphia Under Armor All American team 2017 Champions.
Jim SChorn
Assistant Coach of Class 2030
kyle tucker
Assistant Coach of Class 2030
CLass of 2031 GOLD Coaches
Matt Winkler
Head Coach of Class 2031 Gold
Coach Matt, an alumni of Downingtown High School Lacrosse and a four-year starter at Drexel University, brings a wealth of experience to our program. Following his college career, Coach Matt was recruited to play lacrosse internationally in England, where he achieved success by winning a Flags Championship with Rochdale Lacrosse Club. During his time abroad, he took on additional responsibilities by coaching U8 and U12 players while actively recruiting new talent for the club. Upon returning, Coach Matt continued to make a positive impact in the lacrosse community by coaching his sons’ K-2 and 3/4 programs at WBYA Lacrosse, leading them to a highly successful season(s). With his diverse background and dedication to the sport, Coach Matt brings invaluable knowledge and expertise to our team.
Ryan Patterson
Assistant Coach of Class 2031 Gold
Ryan Patterson is an avid lacrosse enthusiast who has wholeheartedly embraced the sport as a central part of his life. With a deep love for lacrosse, Ryan has not only excelled as a dedicated player but also become a passionate advocate for the game. Throughout his journey, Ryan has showcased his skills at various levels, from youth leagues to college. While attending Downingtown High School under the guidance of Coach Jim Schorn, he excelled as a remarkable goalie, earning accolades such as All-State recognition and Honorable Mention All-American honors. His talent and dedication on the field set him apart and solidified his passion for the sport. Beyond personal achievements, Ryan is committed to sharing his love for lacrosse and inspiring others to embrace its greatness. He actively engages in promoting the sport, with a particular focus on nurturing the next generation of lacrosse enthusiasts. Through his involvement, he strives to create an environment that fosters a deep love and appreciation for the game among young players. Off the field, Ryan’s dedication to his wife, Megan, have three boys: Bryce, who plays for the Dawgs 31′ team, Bodie, a member of the Dawgs 33′ team, and Beckham. With a shared passion for the game, Ryan and Megan form a lacrosse-loving family, creating an environment that nurtures their children’s enthusiasm for the sport.
CLass of 2031 Blue Coaches
ryan cassidy
Head Coach of Class 2031 Blue
Rocco grello
Assistant Coach of Class 2031 Blue
john gwiazdowski
Assistant Coach of Class 2031 Blue
CLass of 2032 Coaches
Brody Bush
Coach of Class 2032
Currently the Varsity lacrosse coach at Conestoga, where his teams have won over 100 games and multiple State Championships. Coach Bush grew up close by playing at Penncrest High School and was a high school All-American as well as Central League MVP. Coach Bush also helped the United States win the gold medal for the U-19 U.SA. Team in Tokyo, Japan 1996. Coach Bush played his college career at Rutgers University where he was a four year starter, team captain, north/south game participant and also is in the top ten all-time assist and point record book at Rutgers. Professionally Coach Bush played for the Philadelphia Wings and also internationally in Australia.
Nick winkler
Assistant Coach of Class 2032
Alex Wolfington
Assistant Coach of Class 2032
CLass of 2033 Coaches
Chris Gannet
Coach of Class 2033
Chris Gannet, a native of Exton, Pennsylvania, has had a remarkable journey in sports. Growing up in Exton, he showcased his athletic abilities in lacrosse and soccer while playing for the Lionville youth teams. He graduated from Downingtown High School in 2002 and continued his lacrosse career as a member of the Dukes HS Lacrosse Club. Chris pursued higher education at Penn State University, where he graduated in 2006. During his time at Penn State, he served as Co-Captain for the lacrosse team, specializing as an Attack/Midfield player. His leadership and skills on the field made him a respected figure among his teammates. Passionate about giving back to the sport, Chris transitioned into coaching and became an Assistant Coach for the Downingtown East team. In 2007, he contributed to the team’s victory in the Pennsylvania State Championship, further showcasing his expertise and commitment to the game. Chris’s lacrosse career took a professional turn when he was selected in the MLL supplemental draft by the San Francisco Dragons in 2008. Representing the team, he made valuable contributions to the sport’s growth and success at the professional level. Beyond his sports achievements, Chris cherishes his family life. He is happily married to his wife, Maria, and together they have three children: Christopher (8), Ciara (6), and Cole (1). Their loving and supportive family is the cornerstone of his personal and professional endeavors.
greg hale
Assistant Coach of Class 2033
kevin ashe
Assistant Coach of Class 2033
Girls CLass of 2032 gold Coaches
Girls CLass of 2032 blue Coaches
Dawgs In action
At our program, we strive to maximize the potential of our players by fostering a well-rounded approach that encompasses hard work, fundamental skills, healthy competition, teamwork, and enjoyment of the sport. Our ultimate goal is to enhance participation, improve the quality of play, and create more opportunities for young lacrosse enthusiasts. We are committed to supporting each player in reaching their full potential and achieving personal growth within the sport.
"Based on my coaching experience, I have come to realize that building a strong foundation at the youth level is crucial for achieving success. Todd Cliggett, the founder of the Dawgs Lacrosse Club and former head coach of Downingtown Lacrosse, has made significant strides since its establishment four years ago. Todd's notable accomplishments thus far have laid the groundwork for continued success, and we aspire to carry that momentum forward in the future." - Matt Winkler
