SONOMA, Calif. – The Sonoma State University men’s lacrosse program is excited to announce the hiring of Ben Hewitt as the head coach for the 2019-2020 season.

Hewitt joins the Noma lacrosse family from Casa Grande (Petaluma, Calif.) High School, where he was the head varsity coach since 2008.

Throughout his tenure, Hewitt propelled his teams into multiple postseason appearances and championship titles.

"I am incredibly humbled and honored to be given the opportunity to become the next men's lacrosse head coach at Sonoma State University,” said Hewitt. “The proud history of SSU lacrosse, combined with the rich academic environment at the University, makes Sonoma State a special place to call home.

“Having been a resident of Sonoma County for the last 12 years, I am very excited to a part of representing the county and the north bay community. I would like to thank Mike Annala and the SSU lacrosse team for the chance to lead this program and commit to doing so in a manner that will honor the players and coaches who have built and sustained its amazing culture."

Prior to coaching at Casa Grande, Hewitt was the varsity coach at McCallum (Austin, Texas) High School in 2007 and San Rafael (Calif.) High School from 2003-06. He began his coaching career as the varsity defensive coordinator at McNeil (Austin, TX) High School in 2002.

Hewitt has been the head coach for many successful northern Californian club teams, as well and many lacrosse camps in both California and Texas.

Hewitt played lacrosse in college at Louisiana State University, earning a spot on the Big South all-conference team in 2001 on defense.

Hewitt will be joined by Kyle Smith, who will be filling the roll of defensive coordinator.

Smith attended Casa Grande High School, playing under Hewitt in the late 2000s. After graduating, Smith attended UC Davis (’15), playing midfield for the then-MCLA Division I program.

Smith began his coaching career as an assistant at Casa Grande back in 2011 at the junior varsity level, but quickly worked his way up to being Coach Hewitt’s right-hand man on the defensive end of the field at the varsity level.

Smith not only brings his large lacrosse IQ, but also his extensive knowledge of strength and conditioning along with nutrition and film analytics. He is expected to make a huge impact on the program.