Former assistant coach James Lee announced he would become head coach Manual boys’ lacrosse team at a Booster Club meeting on Tuesday.

He replaces former head coach Devin Clifford who led the program since its founding in 2006.

“This year I’m looking to make the best of the resources we have,” said Lee while addressing players and parents. “Yes, St. X will be better, yes, Trinity will be better, but I’m looking to grow as a team.”

Lee has yet to name a staff, after JV coach Jason Rahmel announced he would not be returning due to work issues, however he did note he was in talks with former Manual and Ballard players.

“When Coach Clifford left, there was a lot of uncertainty, but it’s good to have a familiar person as the new coach,” said Brenton Wolford (11, HSU). “It means a lot of the upperclassmen will have to step up now that Lee is the only coach.”

Lee was an assistant coach under Clifford since 2008 with brief breaks while he was attending college to earn a Phd from U of L.

He inherits a team that went 7-7 last year and won its district under Clifford, who accepted a position at a New Hampshire private school at the end of last season.

Manual’s varsity team plays its first game of the season against Kentucky Country Day on March 11.