BATON ROUGE, La. -- As spring fast approaches, the LSU men’s lacrosse program -- the reigning Lone Star Alliance Division I champion -- prepares for the upcoming 2021 season.

A historic run led to their first appearance at the 2019 MCLA National Championships presented by New Balance in Salt Lake City. Now, with 18 upperclassmen and a slew of young talent returning, the Tigers look to use their depth and experience to defend their conference title.

Shane Koppens, in his third season as head coach and fourth on staff, will guide his team while also holding offensive coordinator duties. The former Loyola (Md.) standout understands the value of a unified team:

“Building chemistry with one another, as a team, will ultimately play a large role in being the best we can be on game day," said Koppens.

He looks to build on his past success to bring the Tigers back to the 2020 MCLA National Championships presented by New Balance, which is scheduled for Round Rock, Texas, from May 10-15.

Koppens adds former players Reece Townsley and Jean Guillot to his coaching staff this spring. Both were a part of the 2019 LSA championship team and will provide insight on the offensive side of the field.

Another former player on LSU’s coaching staff (1984-1987), Chris Condon adds value as he takes over defensive coordinator duties. The Tiger alum has a new mindset for this season.

“Be resilient, take what life hands you, and embrace what you have while you have it," said Condon. "Our opportunity now is to translate what we learned to the field.”

Assisting Condon this season will be defensive coach Taylor Koppens and goalie coach Bobby Grove.

A new addition to the coaching staff, Grove is no stranger to the Lone Star Alliance. The former Tulane head coach looks forward to the 2021 season.

“I’m extremely excited for the opportunity to be a part of [LSU]’s LSA title defense," he said. "Working primarily with the goaltending group, I'm looking to help solidify a strong backend while pushing transition for the Tigers this year."

The Tigers are looking forward to kicking off their season versus rival Florida Gators on Feb. 5.