GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. - Davenport University Director of Athletics Paul Lowden is pleased to announce the hiring of Chris Gervat to become the new Head Coach of the Men's Lacrosse program.  Gervat replaces Bob Clarkson who resigned to focus on his role as a full-time professor and continue his own education.  Gervat takes over a program fresh off its fourth consecutive appearance in the MCLA DII Final 4.

Chris Gervat takes over the Men's Lacrosse program at Davenport University as announced by Director of Athletics today. “One of the toughest tasks for a new coach is taking over for a successful established program, said Lowden. Former head coach Bob Clarkson and I have confidence that Chris will elevate the program to new heights and I look forward to a seamless transition from MCLA DII to MCLA DI for the 2012-13 season.”

“I'm expecting the players to step it up even more in 2013, said Gervat! Coach Clarkson has done a great job the past several years at DU. He will be a very hard act to follow. Next year we're entering a new ball game in our inaugural season in MCLA Division 1”

Chris will take on the role as the program moves from MCLA DII to the DI status next season in which they will compete against conference schools such at Michigan State, University of Pittsburgh, Ohio University and the University of Toledo.

“MCLA Division 1 features great schools and lacrosse programs from all over the country, added Gervat. These student athletes are dedicated to their studies, and to their team. I don't view the MCLA as "club" ball. In fact many of these MCLA teams would do quite well against NCAA competition!”

The Panthers that Gervat inherits are fresh off their fourth consecutive appearance in the MCLA DII Final 4 and their second straight CCLA North Division title.  Davenport landed four players on the 1^st Team All-American list in which Gervat will have two of those returning in Cody Cross and Jordan Richtsmeier.

“The coaching staff this summer is looking at getting the players prepared for the fall, said Gervat. As we enter fall ball, we're going to ask more from the kids. More effort; more heart; more determination. We expect to be competitive right away. New workout regiments will be put in place and we expect the boys to be ready once they step into DU this fall! Recruiting is always a priority.”

Gervat played four years of NCAA D1 Lacrosse at the University of Massachusetts where he appeared in 60 games as a defenseman and scooped up 102 ground balls in his career.  During his senior campaign, Gervat received the Goose Garber Award signifying the most unselfish player with the best attitude of a team player and was also named to the NEILA Scholar Athlete team.

Chris is currently employed by WWMT Channel 3 out of Kalamazoo and Battle Creek and also works for True Lacrosse.