TACOMA, Wash. — The Pacific Lutheran University women's lacrosse program and Head Coach Melanie Rizzotti announced the hiring of Evelyn Edwards as the Lutes' assistant coach heading into year three as a varsity program. 
 
A Puyallup, Washington native, Edwards comes to Luteville after graduating from the University of Bridgeport in Connecticut where she was a four-year member of the Purple Knights women's lacrosse team. Edwards suited up in 46 games for the Division II program, starting in 27 games, including 14 during her senior campaign in 2026. Edwards scored 11 goals and had 46 assists in her career, ranking fourth in program history in career assists. 
 
"I'm thrilled for Evelyn to be joining our program! Her background as a division two lacrosse player at UB is going to assist in elevating our program. She also brings a familiarity and strong knowledge of Washington State lacrosse as a former player and coach for CitySide Lacrosse Club," said Head Coach Melanie Rizzotti.

"I'm excited for the future of Lute Lacrosse and to see how Evelyn's going to help shape the next chapter of the program. We have a strong vision for where we're headed, and Evelyn is the right fit to help us get there."

Edwards helped the Purple Knights win 31 games over the past four years, qualifying for the Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference Tournament all four years. The Puyallup High School graduate was named CACC All-Academic, was named to the IWLCA Academic Honor Squad, and earned the D2ADA Academic Achievement Award. She graduation this spring from Bridgeport with a degree in psychology. 

"I'm thrilled and grateful to have been given this opportunity! It has always been a dream of mine to grow the game of lacrosse in my home state, and it feels surreal that it's all coming together," said Edwards. 

"I could not be more excited to be working alongside Melanie. She's done so much for this program already, and I'm so thankful she's bringing me along on the journey that is Lute Lacrosse!" 
 
Edwards played for both Maniax and Cityside lacrosse clubs and currently serves as a coach at Cityside lacrosse. 
 
The Lutes made huge strides in their second season as a varsity program in 2026, including earning the programs' first road win and Northwest Conference victory, ending the campaign with a 3-13 overall record and a 1-7 mark in conference play.