Bellarmine hires former Rutgers’ assistant Jim Mitchell as next men’s lacrosse head coach

The Bellarmine Knights have hired former Rutgers Scarlet Knights offensive coordinator Jim Mitchell as their next head coach, the school announced in a press release. He replaces Kevin Burns, who was fired back in April. Mitchell will begin his duties on July 2.

Mitchell comes over after spending four seasons in Piscataway, three of them as the team’s offensive coordinator. His offenses were ranked in the top 25 in scoring while tutoring the offense. Prior to that, he spent two seasons as the defensive coordinator of the Knights under Burns. His units were in the top 15 in goals against average, thanks to goaltender Dillon Ward and defenseman Bobby Schmitt.

Bellarmine Director of Athletics Scott Wiegandt is excited for the return of Mitchell to the program.

“Jim’s incredible passion, energy and enthusiasm for Bellarmine are clearly evident and make him an outstanding choice as the next Knights head coach,” said Bellarmine Director of Athletics Scott Wiegandt. “He is knowledgeable about the Bellarmine program and respectful of the program’s history and is confident he can take it to the next level.”

Mitchell is excited for his return to Louisville and hopes to make the alumni proud.

“I am both honored and deeply grateful for the opportunity to represent Bellarmine University as the head men’s lacrosse coach,” Mitchell said. “I would like to thank Dr. Susan Donovan, Scott Wiegandt and the entire search committee for this chance to be a part of something truly special. I would also like to thank my family, Rutgers Head Coach Brian Brecht and countless others for their unwavering support throughout my career.”

“Over the years I have been fortunate to learn from mentors who value the relationships with student-athletes and the campus community above all else,” Mitchell said. “Bellarmine University as a whole epitomizes this philosophy and the future of the lacrosse program will be built on a foundation of honesty, integrity and perseverance.”

“Having spent time at Bellarmine in the past, Louisville already feels like home to me and my family,” he said. “I cannot wait to meet the young men who will help lead the bright future of Knights lacrosse in the community and the classroom while also competing for Southern Conference championships!”

Prior to his first stop at Bellarmine, Mitchell made stops at Division III Goucher and Roanoke, as well as with the Duke Blue Devils.

About two weeks ago, Lacrosse Bucket Blog mentioned Mitchell as a leading candidate for the job. Inside Lacrosse later confirmed Mitchell’s hiring.

There are still head coaching vacancies at Siena and Colgate, as well as unknown situations involving Air Force and Holy Cross.