SU celebrates the memory of Coach Lynne Harvel, who recently passed away. Harvel came to then Salisbury State College in 1970 – a time when athletic coaches wore many hats, and that was no different for Lynne. She joined the Athletics Department as the head field hockey coach and physical education instructor.
During the 1973 season, she led the Sea Gulls over NCAA Division I powerhouse University of Maryland College Park by a score of 1-0. In addition, Lynne was the force behind the creation of the women’s lacrosse program, which has gone on to capture national championships in recent years. She was named the University’s first women’s lacrosse coach when she took the team from club status in 1972 to varsity in 1974.
Known as a hard-working person of high moral standard and integrity, Lynne was a role model to all who came in contact with her. As a strong proponent of the implementation of Title IX, she was instrumental in its adoption on SSC’s campus.
She was a coach, a friend and a counselor to many who played for her – a relationship that extended well past their time at SSC. It is her love for her players and students that has left a legacy that will not be forgotten.