AJ Mercurio
position
Director
Bio
Coach AJ Mercurio brings elite-level, modern lacrosse experience straight from the professional ranks to our players. Known for his intense defensive IQ, exceptional transition play, and infectious energy on the field, AJ is dedicated to developing the next generation of shutdown defenders and high-IQ lacrosse players.</p<
Professional Playing Career – PLL & NLL
- PLL: Defenseman for the Philly Waterdogs, Maryland Whipsnakes (Premier Lacrosse League)
- NLL: Defenseman for the Colorado Mammoth (National Lacrosse League)
Collegiate Accolades – University of Denver Pioneers
Before turning pro, AJ anchored one of the most dominant defenses in NCAA Division I lacrosse under Coach Matt Brown, Coach Tierney, Coach Gallant at DU.
- NCAA Final Four: Led the Pioneers to the National Semifinals (2024).
- All-American Honors: Named a USILA and USA Lacrosse All-American.
- All-BIG EAST First Team: Earned consecutive First-Team honors as a premier defenseman in the conference.
- Record Holder: Finished his career ranked 4th in DU Division I history for total career caused turnovers.
Coaching Philosophy
“I believe in building fundamentally sound, aggressive defenders who understand how to dictate the pace of the game. My goal is to teach players how to combine high-level stick work with elite footwork and communication, helping them transition seamlessly from defense to offense.”